Ford Probe III Idea
That is an installment in a sequence of posts wanting again on present automobiles that we really feel deserved slightly extra consideration than they received. When you have a suggestion for a Forgotten Idea subject, please shoot us a line or depart a remark beneath.
Ford Probe III Idea
First Proven: 1981 Frankfurt Auto Present
Description: Experimental aerodynamic sedan
The Pitch: “A futuristic examine in aerodynamics”
Ford Probe III
Particulars:
First seen on the 1981 Frankfurt Auto Present, the Ford Probe III Idea was each an experimental aerodynamic train, and a harbinger of Fords to come back. The midsize sedan featured smooth, rounded styling, and quite a lot of aero aids which contributed to the idea’s remarkably low coefficient of drag. Notably aero components included a easy stomach pan, body-flush doorways, rear fender skirts, and thoroughly tweaked exterior mirrors.
The 4-door Probe III intently predicted the look of the new-for-1982 Ford Sierra sporty coupe. The Sierra, that includes the Probe III’s “twin deck” rear spoiler, could be marketed within the U.S. by way of Mercury sellers because the Merkur XR4Ti.
Reported as .22 and .24 by Ford, the Probe III’s coefficient of drag was significantly decrease than the all-new 1984 Chevrolet Corvette’s .34 ranking. Per Ford, the Probe III’s aerodynamic design alone would enhance gas financial system by 27 p.c in comparison with the typical European automobile on the street on the time.
CG Says:
I really like forgotten idea automobiles that, when checked out intently, evokes photos of autos that did see manufacturing. Within the case of the Probe III, we see not solely the arguably good-looking Euro-market Sierra, but additionally the game-changing 1986 Ford Taurus.
As evidenced by the journal advert seen beneath, Ford was eager for People to embrace its aerodynamic triumphs together with the Europeans. Given how nicely the Taurus would go on to promote, appears that American shoppers appreciated the hassle.
Forgotten Idea: Mercury Marauder Convertible
Ford Probe III
Ford Probe III Idea Gallery
(Click on beneath for enlarged photos)