Best engine?

I am looking at a couple of different late 90's Tauruses. Is the 12 valve or 24 valve engine better, and anything else I should look out for?

Thanks.

I know the 24 valve has more pep. From what I have heard from pepole, they seem to get about the same gas mileage, but I have always suspected the 12 valve may get better (I average 21 mixed city/highway with a bunch of work crap in it). I do have to say I have never had to replace or overhaul a twelve valve engine except for gross cases of abuse/neglect. The transmission is most likely to give you trouble in those years, however.

You seem to have left out the SHO engine....

But it won't be best for longevity (in the late 80's and early '90's the V6 SHO was good for longevity though) or fuel economy. It will be better for pep and exhaust note, as well as the seats in the car that would come with the engine.

-Rod