Ford TaurusOverview

Major changes included: Although a Taurus in name only, the fifth generation model embodies all the spirit of the Taurus nameplate. Essentially a re-badged Ford Five Hundred, the fifth generation model bumped the Taurus up to the full-size class for the first time in its history. A 263-hp twin-cam 3.5-liter V6 mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission was the only drive train choice, but it made the Taurus very capable in its class. All-wheel drive was also available. Only two trim levels were offered including SEL and Limited. The SEL came with 17-inch alloy wheels, power windows, door locks and driver seat as well as an auxiliary input jack for external audio devices as standard equipment, while the upscale Limited model added 18-inch alloy wheels, leather interior, heated seats and dual-zone climate control.

Major changes included: While still retaining all the great features of the previous generation, the fourth generation Taurus returned to a more conventional design and grew slightly in interior and cargo space. Trim levels included LX, SE, SES and SEL models. Engine options were carried over from the previous generation and included an overhead valve 3.0-liter V6 now producing 155 horsepower and a twin-cam 3.0-liter V6 producing 200 horsepower. One of the benefits of the new design was the increased trunk space which grew to 17 cubic feet thanks to a more traditional roof line (rather than the one from the previous model which sloped downward at an unusual angle). Standard features included a tilt steering wheel, ventilated front disc brakes, child safety seat anchors and one-touch power windows.

Major changes included: The third generation Taurus grew in both size and character. Abandoning the traditional styling of the previous model in favor of a more contemporary look, this Taurus was met with some criticism when it was released. Nevertheless, this generation evolved the Taurus in every way possible. Trim levels included LX, SE and SHO models. Power came from a choice between an overhead valve 3.0-liter V6 producing 140 horsepower, a twin-cam 3.0-liter V6 producing 200 horsepower or a twin-cam 3.4-liter V8 producing 235 horsepower in the Taurus SHO. In addition to the sedan, a wagon body style was also available.