Ford Probe
22.3 MPG The 1997 Ford Probe is EPA-rated at 22.3 MPG combined (19.8 city / 26.5 highway). Over 15,000 miles a year that is about 673 gallons, $2152 a year in fuel, or $0.143 per mile at $3.20/gal.
Across its full 1989–1997 run it averages 21.7 MPG, essentially flat across 9 model years.
Running cost at different fuel prices and mileages
The figure everyone actually wants, and the one the EPA does not publish — because it depends on a fuel price no agency will commit to.
| Fuel price | Per mile | 10,000 mi/yr | 15,000 mi/yr | 20,000 mi/yr |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $2.50/gal | $0.112 | $1121 | $1682 | $2242 |
| $3.00/gal | $0.135 | $1345 | $2018 | $2691 |
| $3.20/gal | $0.143 | $1435 | $2152 | $2870 |
| $3.50/gal | $0.157 | $1570 | $2354 | $3139 |
| $4.00/gal | $0.179 | $1794 | $2691 | $3587 |
| $4.50/gal | $0.202 | $2018 | $3027 | $4036 |
| $5.00/gal | $0.224 | $2242 | $3363 | $4484 |
Every model year
| Year | Combined | City | Highway | EPA fuel cost/yr | CO₂ g/mi | Trims |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1997 | 22.3 MPG | 19.8 | 26.5 | $3175 | 402 | 4 |
| 1996 | 22.3 MPG | 19.8 | 26.5 | $3175 | 402 | 4 |
| 1995 | 22.3 MPG | 19.5 | 26.8 | $3200 | 404 | 4 |
| 1994 | 22.3 MPG | 19.5 | 26.8 | $3200 | 404 | 4 |
| 1993 | 22.3 MPG | 20 | 26.5 | $3200 | 404 | 4 |
| 1992 | 20.3 MPG | 17.8 | 24.7 | $3333 | 441 | 6 |
| 1991 | 20.5 MPG | 18 | 24.8 | $3308 | 437 | 6 |
| 1990 | 20.8 MPG | 18.2 | 25.3 | $3250 | 429 | 6 |
| 1989 | 22.3 MPG | 19.7 | 26.7 | $3033 | 399 | 3 |
Where a model year offered several engines or drivetrains, the figure is the average across all EPA-tested trims that year — the trim count is shown so you can see how much averaging is involved.
How it compares in its class
Among the 229 subcompact cars models tracked here, the Ford Probe ranks 118 on current figures, against a class average of 24.2 MPG.
Closest more-efficient alternatives in the same class: BMW M240i Convertible (22.5), Mazda MX-6 (22.5), Saab 9-3 Convertible (22.5), Mitsubishi Cordia (22.7), Mitsubishi Tredia (22.7).
Tailpipe CO₂ is rated at 402 grams per mile, which works out to roughly 6.0 tonnes a year at 15,000 miles.
Questions
What MPG does the Ford Probe get?
The 1997 Ford Probe is rated at 22.3 MPG combined by the EPA — 19.8 city and 26.5 highway. Across all 9 model years in the database it averages 21.7 MPG, ranging from 18 to 26 depending on year and trim.
How much does a Ford Probe cost in fuel per year?
At 22.3 MPG and 15,000 miles a year, it burns about 673 gallons — roughly $2152 a year with fuel at $3.20 a gallon, or $0.143 per mile. The EPA's own published annual figure for the 1997 model is $3175.
Has the Ford Probe become more efficient over time?
Barely. It sits at 22.3 MPG today against 22.3 in 1989 — essentially flat across 9 model years, with efficiency gains offset by weight and power creep.
Is the Ford Probe efficient for its class?
It ranks 118 of 229 in the Subcompact Cars class on current figures, against a class average of 24.2 MPG. That is 1.9 worse than typical for the class.
EPA test figures from fueleconomy.gov. Cost per mile and annual fuel spend are computed at a reference price of $3.20 per gallon — use your own price. Estimates based on official test figures and average fuel prices. Real-world consumption varies with driving style, load, terrain and maintenance.