Ford Taurus (1st generation)
The aerodynamic 'jellybean' that saved Ford and redefined the American family sedan.
- Power
- 140 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 10.7 s
- Top speed
- 109 mph
- Est. value
- $2k–$12k
About the Ford Taurus
The first-generation Ford Taurus was a revolutionary departure from the boxy American sedans of the early 1980s. Developed under the 'Team Taurus' project at a cost of $3 billion, its aerodynamic 'jellybean' styling achieved a drag coefficient of 0.32, setting a new industry standard. The 3.0-litre 'Vulcan' V6 provided smooth, reliable power that helped the Taurus become a massive commercial success, eventually saving Ford from potential bankruptcy. While the SHO variant captures most enthusiast attention today, the original 3.0-litre sedan remains a landmark of industrial design and corporate risk-taking.
Ford Taurus specs
The Ford Taurus produces 140 bhp (104 kW) and 217 Nm (160 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 10.7 seconds and has a top speed of 109 mph (175 km/h).
| Make | Ford |
|---|---|
| Model | Taurus |
| Generation | First Generation (1st generation) |
| Trim | 3.0 |
| Years | 1986–1991 |
| Type | Saloon |
| Body style | Sedan |
| Country | United States |
| Original price | About $10,000 when new |
| Engine | 3.0-litre V6 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,986 cc (3.0 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 140 bhp (104 kW) at 4,800 rpm |
| Torque | 217 Nm (160 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 5,500 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 10.7 s |
| Top speed | 109 mph (175 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,372 kg (3,025 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 102 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Ford Taurus worth?
A typical Ford Taurus is estimated to be worth $2,000 – $12,000 (about £1,500 – £8,900).
Its original price when new was about $10,000.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Ford Taurus rarity in CarSpot
The Ford Taurus is a Common card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 13 out of 100. Everyday cars you can spot on almost any street. A Common card is worth 10 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Ford Taurus fun facts
- The Taurus was so aerodynamically advanced for its time that Ford executives initially feared the public would find it too futuristic to buy.
- It was the first American car to be designed using a 'team' approach, where designers, engineers, and marketing staff worked together from the start.
- The 1986 Taurus was famously used as the futuristic police cruiser in the 1987 film RoboCop.
