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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  2005 Ford Five Hundred - 2005 Ford Five Hundred
  By Brian Badger - July 13 - 12:16 am

  Solid, reliable car. More comfortable than other Fords Ive driven. Better suspension, too, with handling and cornering much smoother, and visibility much improved over previous Ford products. Interior is bland, but roomy.

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  Great Car! - 2005 Ford Five Hundred
  By Drew - June 28 - 8:36 pm

  After months of researching what kind of vehicle to purchase, I decided on the Ford Five Hundred FWD Limited. I am a professional driver and have driven everything from Audis to VWs. I had rented the Chrysler 300 and was leaning toward that vehicle, but after getting into the Five Hundred I was convinced that it was the car for me. The cockpit is very similar to the high end European cars. So close to the Mercedes S class that its almost impossible to tell the difference. On the road the Five Hundred met almost all of my expectations. The cabin is quiet and there is no exterior wind or road noise. The only thing Ford could have done better is the sound system. Its ok but not great.

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  Love It, Love It, Love It! - 2007 Ford Five Hundred
  By JWE - June 21 - 10:10 am

  I cant recommend this car enough, great on the open road, stylish, comfortable for tall people (Im 62" ) great safety features and excellent mileage on the road. Im getting 33 mpg. Its not a rocket, but I didnt want that, just a car with enough power, AWD, and plenty of comfort. I just love it!

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  Quality Sedan - 2005 Ford Five Hundred
  By joshua forlard - May 23 - 9:36 am

  I have enjoyed the ride and the tight response of steering and quiet cabin.

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  Great Business Car! - 2005 Ford Five Hundred
  By Chris - May 1 - 10:36 am

  A great value for the price! When first purchased in Feb. 2005 I received many compliments on the styling and appearance. Great car for tall and/or oversized people. Perfect for traveling salesmen who must transport clients. Rear leg space is best in class. Trunk space is huge and handy for golf outings. Cup holders and storage compartments galore!

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  Love my Five Hundred! - 2005 Ford Five Hundred
  By MG - April 24 - 6:23 pm

  I love my Five Hundred. I bought it used at a rent a car place with approx 20000 miles. I now have 32000 on it and its at the Ford shop waiting for a new engine. Thankfully Ford honored my warranty since I had records of oil changes. Who knows why the engine went bad. Probably someone drove it like a rental.

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  Love it - 2006 Ford Five Hundred
  By Bill Kooser - April 23 - 5:20 pm

  Enjoy fitting in drivers seat. At 64"+ I can still wear my hat. Great road visibility. Great to sit high - makes for easier in and out. With drivers seat back, there is still room in the back for long legs.

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  Great Car - 2005 Ford Five Hundred
  By fmath - April 15 - 10:00 am

  We just bought the car yesterday and now all our neighbors are asking what it is. The style is beautiful and the handling is even better. We always drove Ford products but this is the best.

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  enjoying the road again - 2006 Ford Five Hundred
  By a.a. - April 14 - 7:13 am

  I was attracted to the 500 by its semi-luxury euro exterior which appears deceptively mid-size but open the doors and trunk lid...WOW! After purchasing, I read about its low horsepower being its weak point. City driving does have a full-size feel but on the highway this puppy gets up and Ive never felt it strain, so I attribute both inclinations to its CVT...either way, I enjoy driving again.

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  Balance - 2005 Ford Five Hundred
  By John - April 14 - 12:00 am

  My all-wheel-drive constant velocity transmission white body on black leather Ford Five Hundred provides excellent comfort, secure handling, reasonable fuel economy and adequate performance. Build quality is fine.