The first generation 1996-1999 Ford Taurus SHO was available with only a manual transmission. The last version had only an automatic. That seemed symbolic of the softening of Ford's sport sedan. The new dual overhead cam V-8 was developed and built with Yamaha -- as was the V-6 it replaced.

1996 Ford Taurus SHO sedan, part of the 1996-1999 Ford Taurus SHO line
1996 Ford Taurus SHO sedan.  See more pictures of Ford cars.

The V-8 wasn't much faster, but it was more relaxed. The SHO had firmer suspension with adjustable shock absorbers and more precise steering than the normal Taurus. All Tauruses had new aerodynamic bodies for 1996. The Taurus SHO styling cues were always subtle, but with the new design, SHO’s stood out even less. With the 2000 Taurus restyling, the 1996-1999 SHO was gone.

Pluses of the 1996-1999 Ford Taurus SHO:

  • Engine unique to car
  • Low production
  • Sharp handling

Minuses of the 1996-1999 Ford Taurus SHO:

  • Harsh ride
  • Not as exciting as previous versions
  • Styling not universally loved

Production of the 1996-1999 Ford Taurus SHO:
NA

Specifications of the 1996-1999 Ford Taurus SHO:
Wheelbase, inches: 108.5
Length, inches: 198.3
Weight, pounds: 3,510
Price, new: $25,930-$29,000 (U.S.)

Engines for the 1996-1999 Ford Taurus SHO:

TypeSize
Horsepower
Years
dohc V-8
207 cid
235
1996-1999

Want more information about classic cars? See: