Overview & Reviews

The Mercury Sable has always been a kindred spirit to folks like Clint Howard, Kevin Dillon or any Baldwin not named Alec -- celebrities with even more famous siblings. People who will always be greeted with, "Hey, aren't you so-and-so's brother?" or "Your nose is much bigger than your sister's." Along the same lines, it's just about impossible to talk about the Mercury Sable midsize sedan without mentioning the Ford Taurus, its nearly identical sibling that for about half its life was the number-one car sold in the United States.

The Sable came out in 1986 at the same time as its Blue Oval-wearing stablemate, sporting the same revolutionary "jelly bean" shape and thoroughly competent driving experience -- plus it offered nifty full-width front fascia lighting. Yet the Ford got all the headlines, all the accolades and most of the sales. It should have been enough to send the Sable on a one-way trip to Billy-Carter-ville.

Alas, the Sable survived in the shadow of its more popular fraternal twin in complete anonymity as it aged ungracefully amid a family sedan segment that was rapidly getting better. Although discontinued after the 2005 model year, the Sable name was resurrected in 2008, replacing the Montego moniker. Sadly for the Sable, the discontinued Taurus was revived as well, further sealing the Sable's fate, as 2009 would be the last year for the model. Two years later, the Mercury brand itself would go extinct.

Most Recent Mercury Sable
The fifth and last generation of the Mercury Sable was produced (in a fashion) from 2005 through 2009. This car actually debuted as the Montego, reviving an ancient Mercury moniker. But the company evidently felt there was too much heritage in the Sable name and thus renamed the Montego "Sable" for '08. If you're looking at a used Montego, note that it was powered by a comparatively wheezy 203-horsepower V6. A more potent, 263-hp V6, as well as a styling refresh, was part of the Sable's rebirth. In standard form, both were offered with front-wheel drive, but buyers could opt for all-wheel-drive versions as well.

In keeping with its more upscale reputation, the base trim levels were well equipped with 17-inch wheels, full power accessories, power front seats, a CD player with auxiliary input, and the creature comforts you'd expect from other sedans in this segment. Stepping up to the Premier trim level added 18-inch wheels, leather upholstery, heated mirrors and front seats, dual-zone climate control and an upgraded stereo with a CD changer and satellite radio. Options included a sunroof, a navigation system, a rear-seat DVD entertainment system and, on '08 and later Sables, the Sync system (standard on the Premier), which allowed voice activation of cell phones and entertainment systems.

Despite being overshadowed by its more popular Ford cousins, the Sable still managed to make its mark with top safety scores, plenty of space for passengers and cargo, a smooth ride and above-average fuel economy for the segment. The Mercury Sable's drawbacks included a non-telescoping steering wheel, a mushy brake pedal and a less-than-engaging driving experience. However, these negatives don't weigh it down enough to take it out of the running when compared to competing full-size sedans. Savvy used car shoppers considering the Taurus will likely note lower pricing with a comparable Sable.

Past Mercury Sable Models
The fourth-generation Mercury Sable generation ran from 2000-'05. Although the basic body shell was carried over from the previous Sable, this edition did away with the ugly "wonderful world of ovals" design scheme, resulting in a more subdued look and improved ergonomics.

The Sable was available in sedan and wagon body styles. Depending on the year, trim levels included GS, GS Plus, LS and LS Premium. Standard equipment was generous on the lower levels, with the LS models providing upscale items like power-adjustable pedals, a power driver seat, automatic climate control and leather upholstery. A rear-facing third-row seat was standard on the LS wagon. The GS came standard with a rather antiquated 3.0-liter V6 (157 hp). Standard on the LS Premium and optional on the LS was a 3.0-liter V6 that boasted twin overhead cams and 24 valves that pushed output to 200 hp while achieving practically identical fuel economy.

Although this generation of Sable and its Taurus clone were respectable entries in the midsize sedan segment when they debuted, they were quickly outpaced and found themselves languishing as unwanted fleet and rental cars. Although they provide comfortable transportation at a low price, other used midsize sedans are more modern, competent choices.

The third-generation Mercury Sable sold from 1996-2000 featured one of the most controversial redesigns in automotive history. It shared the same oval-themed design as its Taurus sibling, but added further bizarre details that created a look that could be described as either "snakelike" or "fishy." Inside, the strange dashboard design drew more mixed reviews, featuring audio and climate controls bunched together in a single oval pod. Some saw it as a blast of fresh air; others as an ergonomic annoyance.

There were two engines available. The GS trim level came with a 3.0-liter "Vulcan" V6 that produced 145 hp, while the LS came with a 200-hp "Duratec" V6. When it arrived on the scene, we were impressed with this all-new Mercury Sable, even if its styling left us a little befuddled and/or nauseous. We thought it was better than most American sedans, while noting that Honda, Toyota and later Oldsmobile offered more compelling choices.

The second-generation Sable ran from 1992-'95 and could perhaps be considered the pinnacle for this car. An evolution of the original, its lower-profile nose and slightly crisper lines tastefully updated the car, while hardware improvements included new safety features such as antilock brakes and a passenger side airbag. Sable sedans and wagons came with either a 3.0-liter V6 or 3.8-liter V6. Horsepower was the same at 140, but the larger engine provided more torque. A four-speed automatic was the only available transmission.

The first-generation Mercury Sable ran from 1986-'91. Compared to the boxy architecture of its competition, the "jellybean" (and aerodynamically efficient) look of the Sable and its Ford Taurus sibling were a breath of fresh air. Plus, the Sable had a front fascia featuring an illuminated "grille" that connected the headlamps with uninterrupted light -- pretty cool in a futuristic sort of way. A 90-hp inline-4 (with either a manual or automatic transmission) and a 3.0-liter, 140-hp V6 (automatic only) were initially offered, but the former engine sold so poorly that it was dropped for 1987. A 3.8-liter V6 became available in 1988 that also produced 140 hp, but pumped out 55 more lb-ft of torque.

User Reviews:

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  Buyer beware 2003 Sable will cost you money - 2003 Mercury Sable
  By HMILLER2 - February 6 - 7:10 pm

  The car seemed to to be a good but when you compair all the known specs at the time of purchase but after a few years look out! This car model is no worse than the support from Ford Motor who just does not care in my opinion. I bought the extended warranty so I have had some protection. When you look at what others have had to repair you will see a pattern. First the A/C goes up after about 2-3 years. Then the door seals leak they needed to be replaced. The car does not burn E85 fuel as listed by Ford. Runs rough and chokes on mixed fuel. The list goes on but now after just 41,500 miles I need spark plug wires.

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  Really like my Sable - 2003 Mercury Sable
  By Kleveland - January 21 - 10:00 am

  I am really bonding with my Sable - as I drive about 40,000 miles per year and my car is my major tool. I appreciate this car more every day. The ride is firm yet comfortable. Radio and heater/AC controls are ergonomically well placed. Ride is very nice. Purchased this car with 17,000 miles on it for $11,400. How can you beat that? Excellent everyday work mobile.

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  Very good return on investment - 1997 Mercury Sable
  By Mike B. Beats - January 3 - 3:33 am

  I purchased mine in 02 with 46K on it for 6500. In my opinion, I couldnt have spent my money more wisely on a car. I got everything I wanted in the car besides a cd player. It gave me roughly 100K miles with minimal problems. The trans went out at 145K and it costs to much to repair, given the value of the car, but its a great car otherwise. the heat/AC is stellar. The HP is good. It doesnt handle the best, but were not racing here. The inside is very comfortable, and my favorite part is that it doesnt draw any negative attention. It is difficult to steal too, which is always a bonus. For the money you spend, you get a good product in return. this car is a road warrior.

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  Stylish, affordable car - 2003 Mercury Sable
  By SteveEE - January 1 - 10:00 am

  This car is serving us well so far, It has a comfy, big interior. A somewhat smooth ride thats usually disturbed only by the worst bumps. Passing power is good and the engine is smooth when warmed up but kind of raggy sounding when its cold.

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  Great family car - exceeds minivans - 1998 Mercury Sable
  By bampam33 - December 27 - 8:13 pm

  Previously owned by a family member, our large family thoroughly enjoys this car. With the 3rd seat, we get the "feel" of a minivan without the outrageous gas costs. Extremely comfortable and adaptable to drive...kids love it too.

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  Good solid car - 2001 Mercury Sable
  By ljd - December 27 - 5:43 pm

  Bought a 2001 Sable LS Premium new and put 71,000 miles on it over 6 years. Just traded it in for a different brand. I miss my Sable! Excellent ride quality, loaded with luxury features, great stereo system, elegant styling. 21 MPG in town, 28 MPG highway. Very reliable.

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  So Far So Good - Part II - 2004 Mercury Sable
  By 04SableDriver - December 16 - 12:33 am

  6,000 miles/3 months and so far so good! My Sable continues to impress with its smooth ride, comfortable seats, and generally polished demeanor. Truly this car speaks volumes as to why Americans buy millions of mid-size sedans each year - they really do just "fit!" Certainly not exciting, hardly sporty; but without a doubt, comfortable, quiet and eminently faithful in their daily motions. Complaints in my case are few thus far. Gas mileage is hardly stellar (avg is about 20 or so mpg; all highway), and the standard stereo emits nothing but dull and flat noises. Finally "quality," that ever looming threat, has remained perfect - no glitches to report! Stay tuned - Part III to come!

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  Great Value for the Money - 2008 Mercury Sable
  By dmers1 - December 15 - 5:10 am

  Power is quite good for a V-6, 260 HP and it shifts very smooth with the 6 speed Automatic. The oil filter is located in a pretty good spot and I use my drive up ramps using 5W-20 oil every 7500 miles. I changed at 2500 the first time to get factory grit out of the engine as I tend to keep cars quite a long time. This car starts every time and never misses no matter what temperature__4-8 degree mornings for us. The only problem, I had was an out of adjustment cruise control switch on the brake pedal that would kick out the cruise occasionally. I took it to a nearby Ford dealer for a quick fix and that was it. I did buy the extended 6 year/100K mile warranty since I still remember the $1800

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  Heavy Like a Tank, Cushy like a Sofa! - 2000 Mercury Sable
  By mwj12487 - December 8 - 5:35 am

  I purchased this vehicle when in a financial crisis last year, with only a cash budget of about $3000. When purchased, this car had already about 90k on the clock. With the 90k, I was very impressed at how "new" it felt to drive. Steering was precise, acceleration was more than decent, handling was very good considering its huge girth. Now, having put MANY highway miles on it, only after one year its around 150k. In that time, I only have had to buy tires, break pads, and of course oil changes with Mobil 1. What can I say, still drives like it did, when it was "new", emm, well you get the point.

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  Great Car - 2002 Mercury Sable
  By cyn202 - October 21 - 10:00 am

  I purchased this car in December of 2003 for $10,500.00 including tax/title. The car was a fleet car from Enterprise with 15,000 miles on it. I still had time on the original warranty and I also purchased the extended warranty. So I am covered until the car is payed off. This is one of the nicest cars I have ever owned. It has a very roomy interior and a large, deep trunk, CD player, tinting rear view mirror. It a great car to drive and I am getting well over 300 miles of "in town" driving to one tank of gas! I fill my tank up only twice a month. I am very pleased with this car. In fact, the car pictured here on this site is the same color as mine..."arizona beige".