Ford Taurus SHO (1st generation)
The ultimate sleeper sedan featuring a high-revving, Yamaha-engineered V6 and a manual gearbox.
- Power
- 220 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 6.6 s
- Top speed
- 143 mph
- Est. value
- $7k–$28k
About the Ford Taurus SHO
The Ford Taurus SHO (Super High Output) was a performance project originally intended as a limited run to use up a surplus of Yamaha-built engines. It transformed the sensible family sedan into a genuine sports car rival, featuring a bespoke 24-valve V6 with a distinctive 'spaghetti' intake manifold. The first generation was exclusively available with a Mazda-sourced five-speed manual transmission, catering to driving enthusiasts. Its understated looks, marked only by subtle body cladding and 'SHO' embossing, made it one of the definitive 'sleeper' cars of the 1980s.
Ford Taurus SHO specs
The Ford Taurus SHO produces 220 bhp (164 kW) and 271 Nm (200 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 6.6 seconds and has a top speed of 143 mph (230 km/h).
| Make | Ford |
|---|---|
| Model | Taurus SHO |
| Generation | First Generation (1st generation) |
| Trim | 3.0 V6 |
| Years | 1989–1991 |
| Type | Sports car |
| Body style | Sedan |
| Country | United States |
| Original price | About $20,000 when new |
| Engine | 3.0-litre Yamaha V6 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,986 cc (3.0 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 220 bhp (164 kW) at 6,200 rpm |
| Torque | 271 Nm (200 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 7,000 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 6.6 s |
| Top speed | 143 mph (230 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,488 kg (3,280 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 148 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 SHO worth?
A typical Ford Taurus SHO is estimated to be worth $7,000 – $28,000 (about £5,200 – £21,000).
Its original price when new was about $20,000.
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 SHO rarity in CarSpot
The Ford Taurus SHO is a Common card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 15 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 SHO fun facts
- The Yamaha V6 engine was originally commissioned for a mid-engined sports car project code-named GN34, which Ford eventually cancelled.
- The engine's intake manifold is so visually striking that many owners choose to polish the runners for display at car shows.
- Conan O'Brien famously owned a 1992 SHO and has featured the car in numerous comedy segments throughout his late-night career.
