How much is a 1998 Ford Taurus SHO worth?

In today’s market, a 1998 Ford Taurus SHO typically trades in the low-to-mid thousands, often around $2,000 to $7,000, with exceptionally clean, low-mileage examples possibly reaching $8,000 to $12,000.

The Taurus SHO is a performance-oriented version of Ford’s mid-size sedan, produced from the late 1980s to the end of the 1990s. The 1998 model sits near the end of the lineage and is sought after by enthusiasts for its Yamaha-built V6 and distinctive styling. Values reflect rarity, maintenance history, and the broader nostalgia for late-90s performance sedans.

Market snapshot

In the mid- to late-1990s, the Taurus SHO offered a more powerful, sport-tuned variant of Ford's family sedan. Today, collectors and enthusiasts value these cars for their unique place in Ford's performance history, though they remain used vehicles, with depreciation tied to mileage, condition, and upkeep costs like suspension components and transmission reliability.

What affects the value

Actual price is driven by several key factors that buyers weigh when considering an SHO from this era:

• Mileage and overall condition


• Rust, especially on the undercarriage and frame rails


• Maintenance history and documented service records


• Mechanical health of the Yamaha-built V6, transmission, and cooling system


• Originality vs. modifications (stock cars often fetch more)


• Impact of color, interior condition, and exterior paint quality


• Number of previous owners and vehicle history (accidents, title issues)

Below are typical price bands you may encounter in current listings. Actual prices vary by locale and the specific car’s condition and history.

• Rough/Project or high-mileage: $1,500–$3,000


• Fair condition with average miles: $2,500–$4,500


• Good condition with decent maintenance: $4,500–$6,500


• Very good condition or higher-quality maintenance history: $6,000–$8,500


• Excellent/low-mileage or well-preserved stock examples: $8,000–$12,000

Prices tend to cluster around private-party sales and regional dealer listings rather than factory-new car pricing, and negotiation can push these numbers in either direction depending on demand and the car’s specifics.

How to verify current valuations

To corroborate these ranges and tailor them to a specific car, consult established valuation guides and current marketplace data. This helps capture regional pricing and recent auction activity.

• Kelley Blue Book (KBB) values for private party and trade-in scenarios


• NADA Guides


• Hagerty Price Guide for classic/collector-leaning valuation


• Recent Bring a Trailer and other auction results for SHO or similar late-90s performance sedans


• Current listings from dealers and private sellers (regional classifieds, eBay Motors, Craigslist, etc.)


• Vehicle history reports and maintenance records to confirm condition

Keep in mind that regional demand and the car’s condition can significantly affect price, so use multiple sources and, if possible, have a trusted technician inspect the vehicle before concluding a deal.

Summary

The 1998 Ford Taurus SHO sits at an interesting crossroads: it is a late-90s performance sedan with a dedicated enthusiast following, yet it remains a used vehicle whose value hinges on mileage, upkeep, and originality. In general, you’ll find private-party prices ranging from about $2,000 to $7,000 in most markets, with well-preserved, low-mileage examples potentially reaching $8,000 to $12,000. Always verify current values with multiple valuation guides and live listings to reflect local market conditions and the car’s specific history.

Is the Taurus sho a sleeper?

Yes, the Ford Taurus SHO is considered a sleeper car because it looks like a typical family sedan but has a powerful engine and performance-oriented features that allow it to surprise other vehicles. The "Super High Output" model often features a potent, turbocharged V6 engine and an upgraded suspension that belies its unassuming exterior. This combination of a standard appearance with performance capabilities is the hallmark of a sleeper car. 
You can watch this video to see a POV review of the Ford Taurus SHO: 1mTheTopherYouTube · Sep 9, 2023

• Unassuming appearance: The Taurus SHO retains a mostly standard, full-size sedan look, making it blend in with regular traffic and appear like any other family car to the average person. 
• Hidden performance: Behind its mundane exterior lies a powerful engine, with later models featuring a twin-turbocharged V6 that produces 365 horsepower or more. This allows it to accelerate quickly and surprise faster cars. 
• Performance upgrades: Beyond the engine, SHO models include performance-tuned suspension, larger anti-sway bars, and other components that improve handling and give it a sportier feel, even if the exterior doesn't scream "performance". 
• Strategic advantage: The "sleeper" nature means it can be an excellent value, offering performance comparable to more expensive sports sedans without the flashy styling, which can sometimes lead to a lower purchase price and flying under the radar. 

This video showcases the Ford Taurus SHO's performance capabilities: 57sJDM TorqueYouTube · Aug 3, 2025

What is the most common problem with Ford Taurus SHO?

The most common problem with the Ford Taurus SHO is the Power Transfer Unit (PTU) failing, often due to leaks and overheating, which is exacerbated by a lack of recommended fluid changes by Ford. Other frequent issues include turbocharger problems, timing chain wear leading to rough idling, and electronic steering failures on later models. 
Power Transfer Unit (PTU) 

• Failure cause: The PTU is prone to failure because of leaks and the heat from the exhaust system located underneath it. 
• Symptoms: A burning smell from the exhaust can indicate a leaking and dry PTU. 
• Solution: Regular fluid changes (around every 50,000 miles) are crucial, despite Ford not initially specifying a service interval for it. 

Turbocharger and engine 

• Turbocharger failure: This can be caused by loose or leaking oil lines. 
• Timing chain: Wear and stretching of the timing chain is common, which can lead to noise and a rough idle. 
• Ignition coils: Failures can also cause rough idling or misfires. 

Electronic and steering systems 

• Electronic steering: On newer models (2013+), the electronic power steering can fail or make unusual noises, requiring the replacement of the power steering rack. 
• Heated seat harness: The wiring harness for the heated seats is known to burn up, requiring a repair. 

Other common problems

• Engine oil leaks: Gaskets, like the oil pan gasket, are prone to leaking. 
• Water pump: The water pump can fail, and its location on the engine makes repairs difficult and expensive. 
• Suspension components: Ball joints and tie rods may need to be replaced, especially at lower mileage points. 

What is the value of a 1998 Ford Taurus?

The value of a 1998 Ford Taurus varies significantly, but it typically ranges from a low of about $430 to a high of around $2,181 based on its condition, mileage, and trim. For specific trims, the KBB Fair Purchase Price is around $1,912 for the SE Sedan and higher for the LX and wagon models, with the performance-oriented SHO model being valued at approximately $5,500 in good condition, according to Hagerty. 
1998 Ford Taurus value breakdown

• Overall Range: The general value falls between $430 and $2,181, depending on the specific vehicle's condition, mileage, and options. 
• SE Sedan: The KBB Fair Purchase Price is around $1,912. 
• SE Wagon: The KBB Fair Purchase Price is approximately $2,278. 
• LX Sedan: The KBB Fair Purchase Price is around $2,115. 
• SHO Sedan: The high-performance SHO model has a higher value, estimated at around $5,500 for one in good condition, notes Hagerty. 
• Trade-in Value: For a 1998 Ford Taurus SE, the current trade-in value is approximately $626. 
• Resale Value: For the same SE model, the current resale value is about $1,398. 

Factors affecting value

• Condition: The overall condition of the car (e.g., engine, body, interior) is the most significant factor. 
• Mileage: Lower mileage generally increases the vehicle's value. 
• Trim: Different trims have different original price points and thus affect current value. The SHO, for example, was a much more expensive and performance-oriented model. 
• Options: Features like a CD player, cruise control, and power seats can add to the car's value. 

How much horsepower does a 1998 Ford Taurus SHO have?

235 hp @ 6,100 rpm
Engine

Horsepower	235 hp @ 6,100 rpm
Torque	230 lb-ft @ 4,800 rpm