'96 Ford Taurus LX - Long-Term Wrap-Up
Interior/ICP:Centerpiece of the Taurus' dash is Ford's distinctive integrated control panel, which brings together switchgear for both the sound and climate control systems. Some drivers loved it; others never became comfortable with the layout.
Rear seat:Able to handle three adults on shorter trips, the Taurus' rear seat has loads of legroom, but could use a touch more overhead clearance. A standard 60/40 demi-split rear seatback enhances its load-carrying capability.
Engine:Standard in the LX model, the 200-horsepower/3.0-liter DOHC Duratec V-6 delivers plenty of off-the-line punch and offers a 100,000-mile interval between major tuneups.
Las Vegas captionLongest-distance odds beaten by our Taurus involved successfully sojourning from Los Angeles to nearby Las Vegas and back.
MT Thumbs up:100,000-mile tuneup interval on Duratec V-6Rear seat heater/air-conditioning ductsLarge rear-seat pass-through opening
MT Thumbs down:No map pocketsStyling more influenced by form than functionCompromised rear seat headroom
Consumer checklist
| | Yes | No | Opt. |
| Integrated child seats | o | 4 | o |
| Roadside assistance | 4 | o | o |
| Security system | o | o | 4 |
| Anti-lock brakes | o | o | 4 |
| Cupholders | 2 | | |
| Power outlets | 1 | | |
| Warranty | 3 years/36,000 miles | | |
MT Thumbs Up100,000-mile tuneup interval on Duratec V-6Rear seat heater/air- conditioning ductsLarge rear-seat pass-through opening
MT Thumbs DownStyling more influenced by form than functionCompromised rear seat headroomNo map pockets
'96 FORD TAURUS LX
| PRICE |
| Base price | $20,980 |
| Price as tested | $25,130 |
| “Kelley Blue Book” current value, |
| wholesale/retail | $16,550/$20,180 |
| Total operating cost | $1263.98 |
| Operating cost/mile | 7.5¢ |
| Total ownership cost* | $9743.98 |
| Ownership cost/mile* | 58.2¢ |
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