Ford's version of the VW

My Taurus wagon (SE model) was purchased used for $12,995 with 21K on the odometer at the end of 2004. I was looking for a vehicle that offered similar carrying capacity to an SUV but at a more reasonable price point. Fuel consumption was another consideration as the Taurus beats just about every other utility vehicle out there with its 26/27 MPG highway rating.

In my mind one word describes this vehicle FUNCTIONAL, it isn't great at anything but on the flip side it does everything well. OK so the 3.0 engine won't flatten you to the seat, but it can run all day on the interstate at 75MPH without effort and do it quietly with a fair degree of comfort. It should also be noted a fold down third seat provides additional space for up to a total of 7, making it a fine people hauler providing two of them are kids. Admittedly the rear seat isn't the greatest when it comes to leg room, but it does well in a pinch.

The wagon and the sedan share the same chassis although the ride is a bit firmer in the wagon. The vehicle feels solid on the road, especially the wagon when compared to some of the bulkier SUV's. Not that I'm trying to compare it to an SUV which of course it isn't. Nevertheless, most owners will undoubtedly appreciate its cargo capacity.

As a top choice for fleet use the market is often flooded with these cars making them an outstanding alternative for anyone looking for price/value in a used mid size vehicle. Since they aren't made any longer demand for the wagons can make them hard to find. Sedans are still widely available as their production went another few years past that of the wagon.

The Taurus may be less refined than some of its newer competitors but price conscious buyers will surely overlook those issues as this car is just plain hard to beat for the money. It offers a comfortable ride, decent seats, good visibility and a low incidence of repair. Anything else and they might call it a Lexus (just kidding of course).

The downside is the car lacks any kind of fun to drive factor and the styling while not bad is starting to get old since its been around so long. I wonder, could this car go down as the modern version of Fords model "T"?