For enthusiasts of American performance cars, the Ford Taurus SHO holds a special place. Having spent considerable time with these vehicles, accumulating miles that would circle the globe several times over, the allure of the SHO is undeniable. One particular model year that often sparks conversation among aficionados is the 1996 Taurus Sho. This iteration represents a significant point in the SHO lineage, blending performance and comfort in a package that continues to captivate today.
The SHO, in many respects, was a different breed compared to its contemporaries, even within Ford’s own lineup. While comparisons are often drawn to vehicles like the Contour SVT due to shared characteristics such as four doors, front-wheel drive, and high-output V6 engines, the SHO carved its own niche. Both utilized sophisticated six-cylinder engines with complex cylinder heads and dual runner intake plenums, but the similarities largely end there when experiencing them on the road.
The Distinct Driving Dynamics of the 1996 Taurus SHO
Where the 1996 Taurus SHO truly distinguished itself was in its ability to devour highway miles with remarkable ease. Its longer wheelbase and enhanced sound insulation created a more refined and comfortable cruising experience, particularly noticeable when compared to the more compact and agile Contour SVT. While the SVT might be likened to a go-kart in its responsiveness and nimble handling through twisty roads, the SHO presented a more substantial, yet equally capable, driving character. Think of it as the difference between a nimble sports car and a confident grand tourer.
Interestingly, despite its larger size, the SHO offered a surprisingly communicative steering feel, providing a clear sense of the tires’ grip on the road. While the Contour SVT might offer quicker turn-in response, the 1996 Taurus SHO exhibited a reassuring stability mid-corner, inspiring confidence when pushed closer to its performance limits. This blend of comfort and capable handling made the SHO a unique proposition in the performance sedan market.
The Heart of the SHO: The Yamaha-Engineered V6
Under the hood of the 1996 Taurus SHO resided a distinctive V6 engine, a product of Yamaha’s engineering expertise. This engine boasted an unusual firing order, igniting two cylinders simultaneously, which contributed to its unique and pleasing exhaust note, especially when unleashed at wide-open throttle. This auditory signature set it apart from more conventional V6 engines and added to the SHO’s character. While the Contour SVT’s engine note was undeniably sporty and race-inspired, the SHO’s had a deeper, more resonant quality that spoke to its grand touring nature.
Interior Comfort and Practicality
Inside the cabin, the 1996 Taurus SHO prioritized comfort and space, befitting its role as a capable long-distance cruiser. While the Contour SVT offered commendable seats in their own right, the SHO’s interior, particularly in models from this era, provided a more spacious and accommodating environment. However, it’s worth noting that the Taurus interiors of the early to mid-1990s could be prone to occasional squeaks and rattles over time, often attributed to the hard plastic trim elements within the door panels. Despite this minor drawback, the overall interior ambiance of the 1996 SHO leaned towards comfortable and functional.
Parts Availability and Aftermarket Support for the Classic SHO
As a vehicle of its age, sourcing parts for a 1996 Taurus SHO can sometimes present challenges, a common reality for classic performance cars. However, the SHO enjoys a surprisingly robust aftermarket support network. Companies like Felpro and Moog have stepped in to provide essential components like head gaskets and strut collar repair kits, ensuring that enthusiasts can maintain and restore their SHOs. That being said, some parts, such as control arms with integrated ball joints and bushings, have become harder to find from original equipment manufacturers, and aftermarket alternatives may require careful consideration regarding quality and longevity.
The Enduring Appeal of the 1996 Ford Taurus SHO
If given the choice to select a performance sedan brand new, a 1996 SHO in Deep Jewel Green with a Mocha leather interior would be a highly compelling option. It represents a sweet spot in the SHO’s production run, offering a blend of refined performance, distinctive styling, and a character that continues to resonate with enthusiasts. While the Contour SVT remains a remarkable and entertaining car in its own right, the 1996 Ford Taurus SHO offers a unique blend of attributes that solidify its place as a memorable performance classic.
