Ford Taurus

Ford Taurus

I hadn't driven a Ford Taurus since trading in my 1989 Taurus wagon a few years ago.

The 1998 Taurus sedan is a far peppier, more "European" vehicle than the staid old Taurus, both in design and in overall ambiance. But along with its new styling, the new Taurus feels and looks smaller than its predecessor.

Looks can be deceiving however. My family of five put the Taurus through its paces. We made the five hour drive to New York without a complaint from the three kids in the back seat --one of whom-Josh- is still in a car seat. The bucket seats up front were quite comfortable. And I was able to easily fit a good week's grocery shopping for five in the trunk.

I was impressed with the power of the engine. Acceleration onto the highway was fine, and in general, when I was at the wheel, I felt as if I were driving something much sportier than the car-for-all-season's Taurus.

"I liked the Taurus cause the seats were very comfortable, and the car was very aerodynamic (round). It's sorta ugly on the outside cause of the lights in the back, but it's pretty cool inside. It heats and cools fast and the seats are pretty roomy unlike the stupid Volvo."