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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  Awesome Purchase! - 2005 Ford Five Hundred
  By John DeCarvalho - October 8 - 5:06 pm

  I love this car! It is safe and roomy. Being 6 feet tall I have no problem getting comfortable even in the second seat. The interior design is classy and the command seating is great in traffic. We made a great choice!

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  Beazley Review - 2007 Ford Five Hundred
  By Thomas Beazley - October 5 - 1:06 pm

  At this point, the only thing that I would change is a little larger engine. It strains some times.

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  Why Do All The Reviews Bag On This Car? - 2007 Ford Five Hundred
  By Steve - October 1 - 1:46 am

  I bought my Five Hundred used. At only $16000, and only 13000 miles on the odometer it was a steal. I was checking out Hyundai Sonatas, but I wanted a V6, and had no desire to pay over 20 grand for a car. So I checked out Five Hundreds, I couldnt believe my luck. I always admired the styling of the car, and its safety features. It is roomy and comfortable, gets great gas mileage. I get many compliments on its color and design. Power is great, more than adequate, I mean, come on, how much power is enough? Its fast on the on ramp, good for passing, and corners beautifully. And since I drive mountain roads to get to work, in Calistoga, I love the saftey features and i size. Did I mention MPG?

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  2005 Ford Five Hundred - 2005 Ford Five Hundred
  By Danielle - September 27 - 12:26 am

  I decided to order my Five Hundred after driving one at a ride and drive in Cincinnati. The performance, handling, and comfort impressed me. The only complaint that I have would be the city gas mileage b/c I only get about 18 mpg. I have just tested the awd and traction control systems b/c we got a big snow and the handling was great. It never once slid, fish tailed, or lost control. Overall this vehicle is sleek, classy, and versatile. I give it an excellent rating.

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  Great car for the money - 2006 Ford Five Hundred
  By Wally Walczak - September 26 - 4:20 pm

  We did a lot of research on this car. We had a 2003 Acura TL before this. For the money, Ford gives you a lot of car for under $30,000. The AWD Limited is the model we purchased. My wife is the main driver and she loves it. It sits a lot higher for a great view, its loaded with just about every option, and the 5 Star safety rating gives us a great sense of security when driving. It burns regular gas which is a big savings over the Acura which requires premium gas. The car handles well and the engine, which some say is underpowered, is plenty powerful for us. If you are looking for a loaded car with a lot of room and safety features, you cant beat the Ford Five Hundred. We love it!

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  Touring Car (NOT All Weather Car) - 2007 Ford Five Hundred
  By DBLD - September 16 - 9:30 am

  I purchased this 500 because its AWD...well 2 days after purchase 10" of snow! I was very disappointed in how AWD performed! Ive owned 2 other AWD vehicles and they were flawless...in all types of weather,(100% better in the snow.) The 500 slips and slides all over the place!(even with NEW touring tires!)

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  Better than a Volvo! - 2005 Ford Five Hundred
  By Deb - September 11 - 9:03 am

  I was hesitant to buy a Ford and was test driving and researching Honda, Nissan, and Mazda. But they didnt live up to their accalims and I was deeply disappointed. When I test drove the 500 it was just as a lark. The moment I saw it I was intrigued by its stylish European look. Once inside the roomyness and luxury was astonishing. Then on the road it just continued to impress me. The silent, smooth, fast acceleration; the outstanding handling on sharp turns; and the audiophile stereo is incredible.

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  Personal Experience - 2005 Ford Five Hundred
  By Mitchell - September 2 - 1:26 pm

  Purchased for wife new. Car is underpowered, power steering is unsually stiff. I drove others and the steering is the same, stiff. Takes more effort to turn. Transmission went out at 37000 miles, heated seats stopped working twice shortly after purchase, repaired under warranty. Stopped working again past warranty, still dont work. Front wheel bearing went out at 39000, air conditioner quit at 71000, rear brakes and rotors replaced under recall, engine extremely noisy when down shifting/acelerating to pass on highway. Also had to replace bulbs in front fog lamps and rear tail lights.

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  Fortunate 500 Owner! - 2005 Ford Five Hundred
  By Fortunate 500 Owner - August 27 - 6:30 pm

  If theres a heaven on earth, youll feel like youre in it when driving this car. Luxurious...every comfort I every wanted and some I didnt know existed (power brake pedals, height adjustable, speed sensitive volume - who knew!). I love this car and everyone asks me, what kind of car is this? Very nice and worth more than the price...but dont tell Ford that!

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  My Five Hundred - 2005 Ford Five Hundred
  By Kathy Payne - August 25 - 6:13 am

  We love the car; it not only drives wonderfully but is so comfortable. Even the kids and friends of it comment on what a great looking car it is. We compared it to many other cars and the options in the Five Hundred were so much more for the dollar also. We owned a Park Avenue 6 years ago and I compare it to the ride and comfort we had in our Park Avenue. Great Car!