Looking to buy a Taurus

[89Firebird2.8]

Hello everybody, I currently own a 1992 Lexus LS400, which I am less than pleased with. In my search for a replacement, the Taurus has come up on my list. I'm looking in the late 90's to early 2000's. One reason I am wanting to get rid of my LS400 is the mileage. I have a 4.0 v8 which gets about 12 mpg in town, 23ish on the highway. I have looked at Escorts, but I'm not sure I want a complete econobox either. A v6 taurus looks like it may be a good compromise between power and MPG. What kind of power and mileage do these cars get? Also, what are common things to look for when purchasing one? Any year/engine to avoid? How does cost of parts/repairs compare to other brands?

My entire life, my family has always owned some type of Ford. My mom had a Mustang II when I was just a toddler, which was sold, but we soon picked up an 85 F250, which was replaced in 98 by a 92 F350, which we still own. I like Ford. I'm ready to get rid of my glorified Toyota, which costs a FORTUNE to repair, maintain, and drive.

Any input?

[SUERED]

There is a website= TAURUSCLUB.COM Many Taurus owners there with lots of knowledge.

[65comet]

There are two engines that are both 3.0 liter. The vulcan and the duratec. The duratec is a 24 valve dual overhead cam engine. Much more power and reliability, and was more expensive new. Somewhere around 20% got that engine, so it is slightly harder to find. I have found that as long as you didn't pound on the pedal too much, you could get 22 city and 29 hwy mileage. When my wife drove it, she got 15 city and 24 hwy. I got 300,000 miles out of my 98 duratec before something major went out in the engine. The tranny needed a rebuild back at 70,000. It is sitting in the garage awaiting my attempt to bring it back to life. There is a spot at the front of the rear wheel wells that likes to start rusting on them. I have heard of some that the frame rusted away to nothing. I'm in the salt/rust belt and my frame is still like new, but it is something to look at. It has the best brakes of any vehicle I have ever owned. The usual things had to be done over time. Ball joints, tie rod ends, cv joints and fuel pump. I've heard of complaints for the cam sensor, but it was never a problem for me.