In the landscape of mid-size sedans, the 2007 Ford Five Hundred stands out as a notable offering that combines substantial interior space, a smooth ride, and a suite of features aimed at comfort and convenience. As a vehicle introduced during Ford’s strategic shift towards family-oriented and full-size sedans, the Five Hundred aimed to challenge competitors like the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry by emphasizing a more spacious interior and a comfortable driving experience. With its debut in the 2005 model year, the 2007 version marked the last model year before Ford replaced it with the Taurus and the Flex in subsequent years. The following discussion synthesizes expert insights based on industry standards, consumer reports, and technical specifications, providing a comprehensive review suitable for potential buyers seeking trustworthy, detailed information.
Key Points
- Offers a balanced mix of performance, comfort, and technological features tailored for family use.
- Features a standard all-wheel-drive option absent from many competitors in the segment.
- Powerful engine options provide solid acceleration, though fuel economy varies.
- Interior space and seating comfort remain among the best in its class, with flexible configurations.
- Potential buyers should consider maintenance history and the availability of parts for longevity.
Overview of the 2007 Ford Five Hundred
The 2007 Ford Five Hundred was designed as a full-size sedan that prioritized interior spaciousness without sacrificing handling agility. Built upon the Ford D516 platform, shared with the Mercury Montego, the Five Hundred aimed at offering a comfortable, car-like ride with the advantages of a larger chassis. As a relatively late entrant to the class, the 2007 model had already undergone some refinements from its initial 2005 launch, including updates to the rolling stock and minor feature enhancements.
Design and Exterior Features
The 2007 Five Hundred exhibits a clean, modern silhouette emphasizing aerodynamics, with a grille reminiscent of Ford’s contemporary vehicles of the period. Its body dimensions—measuring approximately 193 inches in length and 73 inches in width—provide generous interior room, especially for rear passengers. The model offered a variety of wheel designs, with 16- and 17-inch options, while standard features included power-adjustable mirrors and optional fog lights, which contributed to improved visibility and aesthetics. Despite its size, the vehicle maintained manageable proportions that suited urban environments and parking considerations.
Interior Comfort and Tech
The cabin is spacious, with ample head- and legroom for front and rear occupants, facilitating long-distance comfort. The dashboard layout combines straightforward functionality with modern touches, including a sound system, climate controls, and optional navigation systems. Material quality in the 2007 model was considered decent, with soft-touch plastics and cloth or optional leather upholstery. The rear seats feature a 60⁄40 split-fold configuration, increasing cargo versatility. An impressive feature for the time was the optional dual-zone climate control, allowing driver and passenger comfort customization.
Performance and Powertrain Options
The 2007 Ford Five Hundred was primarily powered by a single, robust engine choice: a 3.0-liter V6 engine that produced approximately 203 horsepower and 214 lb-ft of torque. This engine, paired with a CVT transmission (Continuously Variable Transmission) in front-wheel-drive versions and a six-speed automatic in all-wheel-drive models, provided smooth acceleration and responsive handling. The optional all-wheel drive (AWD) system, known as Ford’s Intelligent AWD, enhanced stability and traction in adverse weather conditions, a notable advantage in regions with variable climates.
Driving Dynamics and Ride Quality
Thanks to a sophisticated suspension setup—comprising MacPherson struts in the front and multi-link in the rear—the Five Hundred delivers a comfortable ride with minimal road noise and vibration. The vehicle’s chassis balancing emphasizes stability and driver confidence, especially at highway speeds. Gas mileage, however, varied depending on drivetrain choice, with front-wheel-drive models averaging around 20 mpg city and 27 mpg highway, while AWD versions declined slightly due to added weight and drivetrain losses.
| Relevant Category | Substantive Data |
|---|---|
| Engine Displacement | 3.0 liters V6 |
| Horsepower | 203 hp @ 6,500 rpm |
| Torque | 214 lb-ft @ 4,250 rpm |
| Transmission | CVT (FWD), 6-speed automatic (AWD) |
| Fuel Economy (FWD) | 20/27 mpg city/highway |
| Fuel Economy (AWD) | 19/25 mpg city/highway |
Safety and Reliability
Safety features in the 2007 Ford Five Hundred included standard anti-lock brakes (ABS), electronic stability control, and traction control, which collectively contributed to secure handling. The vehicle earned a five-star rating for frontal impact and four-star for side-impact in various safety tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Additionally, side airbags and full-length curtain airbags offered enhanced passenger protection.
Reliability-wise, the Five Hundred garnered mixed reviews, primarily due to early transmission issues reported in some units, especially with high-mileage vehicles. Regular maintenance, including timely oil changes and transmission fluid replacements, was noted to influence longevity positively. The availability of replacement parts from Ford dealerships remains standard, but some independent repair shops report longer lead times for specific components like the CVT modules.
Buying Tips and Considerations
Potential buyers contemplating the 2007 Ford Five Hundred should consider the following key points:
- Verify the vehicle’s maintenance history, especially concerning transmission service, which has been a concern for some owners.
- Perform a thorough inspection, including checks for suspension wear and signs of accident history, given the model’s popularity and used market presence.
- Test drive both FWD and AWD variants to assess handling characteristics and fuel economy trade-offs.
- Consider model-specific features—such as audio and navigation packages—to match personal preferences and avoid unnecessary upgrades later.
- Calculate total ownership costs, factoring in potential repairs and replacement parts, especially given the age of the vehicle.
Market Value and Resale Considerations
As of the latest data, the used market for the 2007 Five Hundred reflects its niche appeal. Retail prices tend to range from 2,500 to 5,000, depending on condition, mileage, and location. While resale value is moderate, maintaining detailed service records and ensuring the vehicle is free of prior accidents can positively influence buying negotiations. For enthusiasts, the vehicle’s spacious interior and Ford’s reputation for durability in certain models make it an attractive option despite the limitations of aging technology.
Is the 2007 Ford Five Hundred a reliable vehicle long-term?
+The 2007 Ford Five Hundred can be reliable if properly maintained, especially with regular transmission servicing and suspension checks. Some owners have reported high-mileage vehicles lasting over 150,000 miles without significant issues, provided preventative maintenance is adhered to. However, caution is advised for vehicles with incomplete maintenance histories or high prior usage.
What are common issues to watch for when purchasing a used 2007 Five Hundred?
+Potential concerns include transmission shift issues, suspension component wear, and electrical glitching in older models. It’s advisable to have a comprehensive pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic to identify potential complications related to the CVT system and bushings or mounts that may have deteriorated over time.
How does the 2007 Ford Five Hundred compare to competitors of the same vintage?
+Compared to rivals like the Honda Accord or Toyota Camry, the Five Hundred offers superior interior space and optional all-wheel drive, which neither of the Japanese competitors typically provided at the time. However, it falls behind in fuel economy and has a more limited reputation for long-term reliability. It remains a solid choice for drivers emphasizing passenger comfort and handling in varied weather conditions.
What are the key factors that influence the resale value of the 2007 Ford Five Hundred?
+Resale value depends heavily on the vehicle’s condition, maintenance record, mileage, and whether it has undergone any significant accidents. The market demand for full-size sedans of this age averages in the lower tier, but well-maintained copies with complete service histories tend to command better prices. Emphasizing original parts and avoiding neglect can preserve value.
Would you recommend the 2007 Ford Five Hundred for family use?
+Absolutely, especially for families valuing spacious interiors and a comfortable ride. Its rear seat legroom and cargo capacity are competitive advantages. Nonetheless, prospective buyers should ensure the vehicle has a thorough service record and be aware of potential repair costs associated with aging components.
