Snapshot:
Sadly, the once avant-garde Taurus has been relegated to fleet and rental car status. Years of refinement have made this aerodynamic, front-wheel-drive sedan a pleasure to drive, a winner in the safety stakes, and a bit of a sweetie among the boxy competition. It also comes in station wagon clothing, one of the few Detroiters to offer a little logic as a temptation.How Much?:
Price for a 2004 Ford Taurus in the US ranges from $19,660 for the base model to $23,455 for the SEL Wagon.The Inside Story:
The rear seat is roomy and the station wagon can seat up to seven people. An updated steering wheel, instrument cluster, and revised controls make the Taurus cockpit less complex than it once was. Trim levels let you make your Taurus a pleasant place to spend a long day on the turnpike.Under the Hood:
Performance has never been a Taurus selling point (aside from the little-lamented SHO) and with just 155 hp, the ancient V-6 won't get anyone excited. Unless you're a school bus driver we suggest opting for the aluminum, DOHC Duratec engine. Economy and accelerative reponse make it worth the extra penny.Transmissions:
There is only one transmission in the 2004 Ford Taurus, a 4-speed automatic. It features adaptive shift-control, which means the transmission recognises cornering input and uphill demands, and responds quickly.Warranty:
3 years/36,000 miles bumper-to-bumper. 3 years/36,000 miles powertrain.Should You Buy a 2004 Ford Taurus?:
You don't care about fads, fancies, or trends. You want a safe, comfortable family sedan that's pretty enough to make you happy and the heck with the rest. So rush out and buy a 2004 Ford Taurus while you can, negotiate a good price, and hang on to this babe until your daughter finishes college. Then give her the Taurus and enjoy a last fling in a sports car.
