The Ford Taurus III SHO, produced between 1995 and 1997, represented a performance-oriented iteration of the popular Taurus sedan. The “SHO” designation, standing for “Super High Output,” signified a substantial upgrade over the standard Taurus models. This generation of the Taurus SHO aimed to deliver a blend of family-friendly practicality and engaging driving dynamics, appealing to enthusiasts seeking a more spirited sedan experience. While the Taurus itself was a mainstay of the American automotive landscape, the SHO variant occupied a niche position, offering a unique combination of features and performance not typically found in mainstream sedans.
Ford Taurus III SHO: A Performance Sedan
The Taurus III SHO distinguished itself from other Taurus models through its potent engine and enhanced chassis components. It was positioned as a competitor to import performance sedans, offering American reliability with a focus on driving enjoyment. The SHO’s relatively short production run contributes to its collectibility among Ford enthusiasts today. It was a final flourish for the SHO line before the model was discontinued, leaving a legacy of performance within the Taurus family.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Taurus SHO was its Yamaha-designed 3.4-liter V8 engine. This engine, designated SHO, featured a 32-valve dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) configuration, a departure from the traditional Ford V8 architecture. It produced 225 horsepower at 6100 rpm and 311 Nm (229.38 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4800 rpm. This output provided a significant performance boost compared to the standard Taurus engines. The engine’s power-to-weight ratio was 7.1 kg/Hp, and its torque-to-weight ratio was 5.2 kg/Nm. Power per liter was a respectable 66.3 Hp/l. The engine was paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission, delivering power to the front wheels. The SHO could achieve a maximum speed of 219 km/h (136.08 mph). Fuel consumption was rated at 11.3 l/100 km (20.8 US mpg, 25 UK mpg, 8.8 km/l).
Design & Features
The Taurus III SHO retained the overall body style of the third-generation Taurus sedan – a four-door, five-seat configuration. However, it incorporated subtle styling cues to differentiate it from the standard models. These included unique wheels, a revised front fascia, and a rear spoiler. Inside, the SHO featured sport seats and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. Safety features for the era included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). The interior focused on providing a comfortable and functional space for passengers, while the exterior design aimed for a balance between understated elegance and sporty aggression. Trunk space was a practical 447 liters (15.79 cu. ft.). The vehicle’s dimensions were 5016 mm (197.48 in.) in length, 1854 mm (72.99 in.) in width, and 1400 mm (55.12 in.) in height, with a wheelbase of 2756 mm (108.5 in.). The drag coefficient was 0.31.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | Taurus |
| Generation | Taurus III |
| Type (Engine) | SHO 3.4 V8 32V (225 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 1995 |
| End of production | 1997 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 11.3 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (US mpg) | 20.8 US mpg |
| Fuel consumption (UK mpg) | 25 UK mpg |
| Fuel consumption (km/l) | 8.8 km/l |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Maximum speed | 219 km/h (136.08 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.1 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.2 kg/Nm |
| Power | 225 Hp @ 6100 rpm |
| Power per litre | 66.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 311 Nm @ 4800 rpm (229.38 lb.-ft. @ 4800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | SHO |
| Engine displacement | 3392 cm3 (206.99 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 82.4 mm (3.24 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 79.5 mm (3.13 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.1 l (6.45 US qt | 5.37 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 10 l (10.57 US qt | 8.8 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1608 kg (3545.03 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 447 l (15.79 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 61 l (16.11 US gal | 13.42 UK gal) |
| Length | 5016 mm (197.48 in.) |
| Width | 1854 mm (72.99 in.) |
| Height | 1400 mm (55.12 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2756 mm (108.5 in.) |
| Front track | 1565 mm (61.61 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1560 mm (61.42 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.31 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.8 m (38.71 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE drives front wheels |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Wishbone |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 225/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
The Ford Taurus III SHO represented a unique offering in the mid-1990s American sedan market. Its Yamaha-designed V8 engine and focus on performance set it apart from its more mainstream counterparts. While not a high-volume seller, the SHO cultivated a dedicated following and remains a sought-after vehicle among Ford enthusiasts, appreciated for its blend of practicality, performance, and distinctive character.
