1996 Ford Taurus III Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the Ford Taurus III ranges between 1518 kg (3348 lbs) and 1608 kg (3544 lbs), depending on the trim and equipment. This moderate weight for a vehicle of its size strikes a balance, providing a stable ride quality and good handling characteristics without overly compromising fuel efficiency. A heavier weight typically increases fuel consumption but contributes to a solid feel on the road, which the Taurus III manages well within its class.

The Ford Taurus III boasts a luggage capacity of 447 liters (15.8 cubic feet), making it a practical choice for families and travelers. This trunk space is quite competitive within the mid-size sedan segment of the late 1990s, offering enough room for several suitcases or groceries. This volume strikes a good balance between passenger comfort and cargo utility, especially when compared to similarly sized sedans which typically offered between 400 and 450 liters.

The Ford Taurus III comes with two main rim sizes: 15-inch and 16-inch options. Correspondingly, tire sizes available are 205/65 R15 and 225/55 R16. The 15-inch rim with taller tires generally offers a smoother ride with better absorption of road imperfections, while the 16-inch rims with lower profile tires provide sharper handling and a sportier feel, albeit with a firmer ride. This flexibility allows buyers to choose based on their driving preferences.

Yes, the Ford Taurus III’s dimensions — 5016 mm (197.4 in) long, 1854 mm (73 in) wide, and 1400 mm (55.1 in) tall — generally allow it to fit comfortably into a standard residential garage. Most single-car garages have a minimum width of about 2.4 meters (8 feet) and length of 5 to 6 meters (16 to 20 feet), which comfortably accommodate the Taurus III's footprint. However, owners with very tight or compact garages might find maneuvering slightly more challenging due to the vehicle's length.

The Ford Taurus III is notably larger than its predecessor, the Taurus II (1992-1995). With a length of 5016 mm compared to the Taurus II's approximate 4880 mm, the Taurus III gained extra cabin and trunk space, enhancing passenger comfort and cargo capacity. It is also slightly wider and lower, with the Taurus III's width at 1854 mm surpassing the earlier model’s width, providing a more stable and modern stance. These dimensional enhancements reflect Ford's effort to make the Taurus more competitive in the mid-size sedan market.

The Ford Taurus III was among the larger vehicles in the mid-size sedan category during its production years. Measuring over 5 meters in length and nearly 1.85 meters in width, it was comparable to competitors like the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord but often edged them out slightly in length and trunk capacity. Its larger size translated into generous interior room and cargo space, making it appealing for those prioritizing comfort and practicality within a mid-size sedan.

The Ford Taurus III typically features 15-inch rims paired with 205/65 R15 tires or 16-inch rims with 225/55 R16 tires. The smaller 15-inch wheels offer more sidewall height, which provides a cushiony ride and comfort for daily driving, especially on rough roads. The 16-inch wheels feature lower-profile tires that enhance steering precision and cornering performance but may result in a slightly firmer ride. Vehicle owners can select based on preference for ride comfort or sportier handling.

With a height of 1400 mm (55.1 inches) and a width of 1854 mm (73 inches), the Ford Taurus III provides a low but spacious cabin that balances aerodynamics with interior room. The somewhat low height enhances the car's sleek, modern appearance and helps reduce air resistance, potentially improving fuel efficiency. Meanwhile, the width across the cabin ensures comfortable seating for at least five passengers, with adequate shoulder and elbow room, contributing to a comfortable long-distance driving experience and a strong road presence.

The Ford Taurus III was positioned as a mid-to-large sedan targeted towards families and conventional midsize sedan buyers seeking comfort, reliability, and space. It featured modernized styling compared to earlier models, with improvements in suspension for a smoother ride and updated interior amenities that included better materials and more ergonomic design. Its engine options and overall driving dynamics were competitive for the era. The Taurus III was designed to be a solid all-rounder with a focus on practicality, making it one of Ford's key models in the sedan segment of the 1990s.