AFSCME 3357-HOF'S BLOG

2005 Ford 500: Ford's Sink or Swim Car

This fall, Ford will debut the new 500. This sedan looks very Audi-esque from the pictures that I've seen. In fact, it is close in dimensions to the A8, Audi's flagship. Surprisingly, Ford has stuck with a version of the 3.0 liter OHC as seen on the mazda 6. The 500's is downrated in horsepower. In the Mazda, it makes 220 hp. In the 500, it is beeing quoted at 200 hp. The 2 wheel drive 500s are expected to come in at about 3600 lbs, and the 4 wheel drive versions at about 3800. If you want to know how this car will perform at those weights, with that engine, take a test drive of a Mazda MPV minivan which weighs about the same and uses the same engine.

I would say the Mazda MPV's performance is adequate for everyday drving, but it is nothing to write home about. Ford hopes a CVT transmission will give better performance in the sedan.

Ford has targeted the 500 and derivatives as eventual replacements for both the Taurus and the Crown Vic. If you see what looks to be an Audi cop car in your rear view mirror, you'll know that Ford made a sale.




2005 Ford Five Hundred Review, Prices, Photos: New Car Test Drive