Overview & Reviews

After years of focusing most of its attention on light trucks, Ford realized it needed a stronger lineup of passenger cars. In particular, the company needed a car that would appeal to families of four and five. The Ford Five Hundred was the result, a large sedan designed to appeal both to ex-SUV owners and traditional full-size-car buyers.

The Ford Five Hundred's biggest advantage was space, as it offered more than 40 inches of legroom front and rear as well as a massive 21-cubic-foot trunk. In addition, the seating position up front was higher than normal to provide a commanding view of the road.

Sales were never particularly strong, however, and Ford decided to rename the Five Hundred as the Taurus starting with the 2008 model year.

Most Recent Ford Five Hundred

Introduced for 2005, the Ford Five Hundred received minimal changes during its brief three-year run. This sedan is based on the previous-generation Volvo S80 platform, and made use of that car's all-wheel drive and safety technology. The Five Hundred's Swedish origins were immediately apparent when you drove it, as it provided both a comfortable ride and competent handling, with nicely weighted steering. Braking performance was mediocre, though, and Volvo's stability control system wasn't included in the package.

Passive safety was excellent in this large sedan. Originally optional, front seat side airbags and full-length side curtain airbags became standard for 2007. Additionally, the Ford Five Hundred aced crash tests by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, earning the highest possible rating in every category.

Three trim levels -- SE, SEL and Limited -- were offered initially, though for its last year the SE was dropped. Front-wheel drive was standard on both trims, with all-wheel drive available as an option. Choosing a front-drive Five Hundred paired the 203-horsepower V6 engine with a six-speed automatic transmission, while opting for AWD mandated a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Key options included rear parking sensors, a navigation system and a rear DVD entertainment system, the latter a rarity in a mid-priced sedan.

Mediocre acceleration was the main drawback to the Five Hundred. Its standard 3.0-liter Duratec V6 was not as powerful or refined as most competitors' engines. Still, the Five Hundred's low pricing and top-notch crash test scores made it a reasonable family car pick. Consumers should know that the Ford Five Hundred was revamped and renamed the Taurus for 2008, and boasted a number of key improvements. The latter included much stronger performance courtesy of a potent new V6, upgraded cabin trim and available stability control.

User Reviews:

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  Steves Review - 2005 Ford Five Hundred
  By Steve - August 9 - 5:50 am

  I have owned a Mercedes and two Lexus vehicles. This car rides just as good. The comfort of the leather seats are far better than the Mercedes and slightly better than the Lexus.

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  Ok, my turn - 2005 Ford Five Hundred
  By Richard C - July 29 - 6:36 pm

  Im constantly receiving compliments on my 500s sophisticated styling and classic/ traditional look. I like the 500 best in black, with the black interior. It feels just as cozy and comfortable as other luxury cars that I have been in. The ride is almost butter smooth on the freeway. Ive often found myself cruising at 80 mph, and didnt know i was driving that fast. It really is a tremendous value, because a top-of the line 500 runs thousands less than its comparably equipped competition cars.

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  From Explorer to 500 in under 2.8 second - 2006 Ford Five Hundred
  By fivehundredpa - July 19 - 2:00 am

  Overall, I am very impressed with the car. Ive only had it for over a month but so far it feels solid. After spending an entire year searching for a car to trade into from and SUV, this one had the best consumer reviews. Youd be amazed how many cars have horrible transmission problems. Got a 4 year bumper to bumper to help with Fords here and there reliability. The car feels nice on the road, handles snow decently. The stock tires I would throw into the sun if I could. Punch it and shell take off or just baby it and shell tug along. As for some folks complaint about power, its adequate and if you want pure performance then should have looked at a car with those specs.

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  A winner in the 500 - 2005 Ford Five Hundred
  By Ward - July 11 - 1:23 am

  This is my 27th automobile. I have had at least one from each of the Big 3 and many imports from either side of the ponds. This car is the best, hands down that I have ever owned. My gas mileage is a welcome surprise in recent times. 28 mpg average after 14,000 miles is no small feat for a large car.

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  Fantastic Vehicle! - 2006 Ford Five Hundred
  By Fran - July 10 - 1:20 pm

  My family and I are amazed with this vehicle. You cant beat the amount of features you get for the price - we have the AWD Limited with all of the safety options. Ive never been a fan of "large" sedans, but the exterior doesnt look large at all while the interior is truly spacious. Its a pleasure to drive.

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  GREAT CAR - 2006 Ford Five Hundred
  By RJ - July 7 - 7:03 pm

  Large well equipped sedan purchased for 2 to 4 week trips by a couple who needs large trunk and clothes bar. Quiet and comfortable on both the interstate and back roads. Good sound and A/C. Easy access even for older folks. Can see over the top of most cars. Dangerous drivers will say its underpowered. Safe unticketed drivers who look and plan ahead say power is adequate. If things get tight it will go. Mpg exceeds expectations. Has stability and good feel of the road. Firmly sprung but smooth enough. Finish and fit are great. Everything works. For the money it looks good and does the job for us.

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  Heaven - 2005 Ford Five Hundred
  By cynthia homis - June 5 - 10:06 pm

  My new car is a home away from home. The leather seats are so soft and durable. I dont feel like I am in a car but on my luxury sofa at home. My work takes me to many offices throughout the day so my car needs to be efficient and comfortable. I am confident that my car will keep me safe in all weather. The traction and controls are superb. Having the options on the steering wheel makes my travel more enjoyable.The airbag in the passengers seat will turn off if the weight is under 80 pounds. .Enjoy the CVT smooth ride. This is the best purchase I have made. I would highly recommend this car to everyone.

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  LOVE my new 500!! - 2005 Ford Five Hundred
  By 4thefrd500 - June 3 - 9:16 am

  I recently traded in my Mercury Monterey minivan for the Ford 500. (est drove 4 other cars before buying). Was skeptical at first but I love it more with each day. It is fun to drive, the kids have plenty of room in the back seat and the trunk is HUGE (can fit the kids bikes in the there)! It is also affordable and GREAT on gas. Also, cheaper to insure that the minivan. No complaints here. I would recommend this car to anyone.

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  SoFarSoGood - great looks, smooth ride - 2005 Ford Five Hundred
  By jekcartalk - May 31 - 4:36 am

  Like the overall appearance of the car; some factory defects on the back passenger doors ( looks like someone dinged the door). The power is adequate.The CVT transmission is smooooth. The interior is nicely laid out with comfortable seats (have driven over 400 miles in one sitting). The stereo system is fine. 26mpg highway and 21 city. Road noise is minimal in the Limited. Compared to the other cars I have driven (Audi, BMW, Acura, MDX) there is no clear advantage or disadvantage. The car is solidly built and for the price paid (~$4.5k less than sticker), reasonably priced for the market. For a family man with three active children it has good cabin space compared to other sedans.

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  Love it - 2005 Ford Five Hundred
  By Heather - May 29 - 1:30 pm

  I went from a Ford Explorer to the new 500 and got better gas mileage and more room. Love it.