I've driven both cars, and I own a 96 Probe GT. The engine in our car is Mazda manufactured, many prober's are starting to drop the Japenese-Spec version of the engine into probes (stock 200HP vs. 164 HP american).
Anyways, Hondas use VTEC--that works on cams.
Probes use VRIS (variable resonance induction system), that works with the intake manifold. So after you hit 3K on the RPM's, 7K comes by really fast
Much the same way it feels like in a VTEC, only it isnt loud. In fact, with my experience the VRIS sounds more like a turbo.
My 2 cents.
Btw, i'd have to say the newer 5spd ludes, and the old style SRV's are faster in general.