Faults:

Brakes are sub-standard -- rotors warp easily, causing the pedal to pulsate during a stop. After several attempts to fix the factory rotors I had an after market set put on, but they only lasted a few months before the same problems began to show up again. Rear drums lock up easily during a panic stop and the rear end slides to the left.

Coolant hose developed a leak while I was on the return trip from a vacation. It was Sunday and I couldn't get a direct replacement, had to improvise to replace the bad section. Later on I got a recall notice about the problem.

Overheats easily.

Has always used a lot of oil.

Some minor problems with the fuel injection.

General Comments:

I regret not getting the 3.8L engine; people have told me it has a lot more torque, uses less oil and gets close to the same mileage.

No problems to speak of with the transmission, except that the down shifts when slowing down come late; for instance, after turning a street corner I begin to accelerate and the transmission will then downshift.

I will admit that the car handles decently for average driving and that it has good ergonomics.

Body seems strong. A full size heavily loaded van backed into my left rear fender while I was driving past a line of parked cars -- it knocked my Taurus sideways but didn't do much damage to it.

Faults:

The car came to me as a favour at a very good price and so needed a few repairs.

The oil pressure sensor was leaking, I need new rear struts, and it's due for a tune up.

The tranny is good except it's finicky going into reverse sometimes.

General Comments:

The car is powerful. It will beat or keep up with anything in it's class. Beating a 240SX is a joke, and GTPs aren't any better even though they're 5 years newer.

Decent on gas if you're careful, but still a fast car.

Handling is good with the right tires.

Interior and factory system are awesome.