I've seen a few of those K-series V6 engines with lifter noise (there was a dealer rework on some models) and oil smoke.
The Probe is indeed based on the same floorpan as 626, Telstar. MX-6, Eunos 500. The rest of the car is American designed rubbish - little wonder that their car industry is in the **** now.
While it depends some on the distance travelled, if the aim is to save money, for low running costs, especially if you can fix the inevitable problems with an older car yourself, nothing will beat a 10-15 year old Commodore on LPG. Price in things like tyres, insurance, parts - esp. used, rego. transfer costs, the need for timing belts and depreciation, even if rego. may cost a bit more (it depends on where you live). Maybe an Excel, Corolla or Camry (also on LPG) might come close but who wants to drive those?