1989 Ford Probe GT Turbo

Description

OFFERED WITHOUT RESERVE

The 1989 Ford Probe GT is a standout example of late 1980s automotive design, blending sportiness with advanced features. Developed in collaboration with Mazda, the Probe GT was part of Ford's effort to capture a younger, performance-oriented market. It featured a sleek, aerodynamic design that was both stylish and functional, contributing to its impressive performance metrics. Featuring a turbocharged 2.2-liter 12-valve inline-four engine with an air-to-air intercooler, the Probe GT delivered impressive power and performance when new. The vehicle includes a sport-tuned handling suspension with three ride modes: Soft, Normal-Auto, and Sport-Auto, along with performance tires on aluminum wheels. The computerized power rack-and-pinion steering system adjusts power assist for precise driving control, and disc brakes at all four wheels ensure effective stopping power. Notable was option group  The Ford Probe GT provided an enjoyable driving experience that appealed to enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike. Its unique combination of style, performance, and comfort made it a memorable vehicle of its time and a notable part of Ford's lineup during the late 1980s.

Highlights 

• Long-term 34-year ownership since 1990 

• The highest specification for the Ford Probe in in its debut year of 1989 

• Finished in Black over a Sandalwood interior, an unusual combination for the earlier Probe GTs 

• Turbocharged and intercooled 2.2-liter “F2T” inline-four cylinder producing 145 horsepower and 190 lb-ft of torque when new 

• Close-ratio five-speed manual transmission (overdrive) 

• Optioned with Option Group 261A ($2,621) that featured: 

  • Electronic air conditioner with push button controls 

  • Passenger side “walk-in” feature to rear compartment 

  • Power driver seat (six-way) 

  • Leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob 

  • Rear wiper/washer 

  • Illuminated entry system 

  • Power windows 

  • Trip computer 

  • Anti-lock brakes 

  • Vehicle maintenance monitor without “speed alert” 

• Features unique to the GT include: 

  • Aero design protective cladding with integral rocker panels and body side moldings 

  • Front facia with fog lamps 

  • Rear end treatment with two-tone spoiler 

  • Sport cloth seat trim 

  • Vinyl door trim with carpeted lower sections with map pockets 

  • Computerized automatic adjusting nitrogen gas struts, higher rate springs, stiffer bushings, larger stabilizer bars 

  • 15 inch aluminum wheels (now fit with Yokohama Avid Ascend GT tires with 2020 date codes) 

• Noted by the consignor to retain its original paint and that it has been kept under a cover during current ownership (since 1990) in a climate controlled garage when not in use 

• The consignor notes regular oil changes every 2,000 miles 

• Air conditioning system upgraded to R134 from Ford, recently recharged and leak tested 

• Featured in Car and Driver’s 10Best list for 1989 

• Clean CARFAX Vehicle History Report 

Features 

• The chassis number (1ZVBT22LXK5117462) decodes as: 

  • 1ZV - Auto Alliance International, Inc 

  • B – Active Seatbelts 

  • T - Ford Vehicle Not Built by Ford 

  • 22 – GT 

  • L - 2.2-liter four-cylinder turbocharged 

  • X – Check Digit 

  • K – 1989 Model Year 

  • 5 - Flat Rock, Michigan Plant 

  • 117462 – Production Sequence 

• Zero to 60 mph in 7 seconds, top speed of 131 mph 

• Concealed/retractable headlights 

• Reclining front bucket seats 

• Driver-side vertical height adjustment, tilt, lumbar support, side bolsters, and articulated headrest 

• Passenger seat lumbar support, articulated headrest, and under-seat storage 

• 50/50 split fold down rear seats 

• Electronic digital clock 

• Side window demisters 

• Sports analog instrumentation: 

  • Tachometer 

  • Engine temperature 

  • Oil pressure 

  • Fuel level 

  • Ammeter 

  • Turbo boost (currently inoperable)

• Dual electric remote mirrors 

• Tilt steering column 

• Pusher floor carpeting 

• Remote liftgate release 

• Multi-port fuel injection 

• Four-wheel disc brakes 

Known Imperfections 

• Worn shift knob 

• Various stone chips, touchups in the paint 

• Worn driver’s side floor mat 

• Non-operation boost gauge 

• Passenger side window switch does not work in the up position 

• The center trip computer is only visible at night 

Included 

• Original delivery literature including Operating Guide, Owner Guide, Warranty and Maintenance Books 

• Probe Shop Manual 

• 1989 Ford Probe Electrical & Vacuum Trouble-Shooting Manual 

• Numerous various spare parts 

• Trunk-mounted steel spare tire 

• Jack and handle 

Ownership History

Produced on 10 May 1988, according to the clean CARFAX for this turbocharged Probe GT was shipped to the original dealer 22 May 1988. In 1990 ownership transferred to the current owner and consignor located in Pennsylvania at approximately 27,600 miles. Today this turbocharged GT features 151,538 miles on the odometer and is noted to be garage kept under current long-term ownership.