Consider some upgraded tires and brake pads
Though the tester's brakes were fairly worn on my last visit to it, a previous, lower-speed tracking session left memories of powerful on-demand deceleration and moderate but predictable brake fade in your writer’s memory. Stopping a car of the Taurus SHO's size gets the brake system plenty hot-- though drivers get lots of notice before a cool-down lap and few-minute break is required.
Complaints? With the Taurus SHO's intentions taken into context, there isn't a whole lot to fault it for.
A good learning companion
Sure-- it’s not a purpose-built track car, but it should work nicely for most novice enthusiasts who want to learn performance driving skills. Some will wish for more feedback at the vehicle's limits, though the SHO’s overall layer of comfort works with a stable and predictable demeanour for an atmosphere conducive to focus and learning. Remember-- the SHO is a stately gentleman of a car, and it doesn’t create any frightening sounds or sensations.
Note that as drivers progress towards higher speeds, upgraded tires and brake pads will be a must.
End of the day, your SHO probably won’t be picking off any S2000's or RX8’s in a time attack-- but for a car that’s driveable year-round with plenty of room and comfort for 5, it’s a competent performer and very good learning machine.
Though the tester's brakes were fairly worn on my last visit to it, a previous, lower-speed tracking session left memories of powerful on-demand deceleration and moderate but predictable brake fade in your writer’s memory. Stopping a car of the Taurus SHO's size gets the brake system plenty hot-- though drivers get lots of notice before a cool-down lap and few-minute break is required.
Complaints? With the Taurus SHO's intentions taken into context, there isn't a whole lot to fault it for.
 |
| Remember-- the SHO is a stately gentleman of a car, and it doesn’t create any frightening sounds or sensations. (Photo: Ford) |
A good learning companion
Sure-- it’s not a purpose-built track car, but it should work nicely for most novice enthusiasts who want to learn performance driving skills. Some will wish for more feedback at the vehicle's limits, though the SHO’s overall layer of comfort works with a stable and predictable demeanour for an atmosphere conducive to focus and learning. Remember-- the SHO is a stately gentleman of a car, and it doesn’t create any frightening sounds or sensations.
Note that as drivers progress towards higher speeds, upgraded tires and brake pads will be a must.
End of the day, your SHO probably won’t be picking off any S2000's or RX8’s in a time attack-- but for a car that’s driveable year-round with plenty of room and comfort for 5, it’s a competent performer and very good learning machine.
Article Gallery