Used Cars: Ford Taurus, mid size cars, ford taurus

Question
Hi,

I would like to buy a Ford Taurus between 2000-2006.  I am only interested in reliability.  I have heard that the 2000-2004 Taurus had major problems with the heater core?  Also, is the smaller engine 12 valve base engine more reliable? Anything else you can tell me? Thanks,

Answer
I hate to say this, because the Ford name put food on our families table for 35 years, but I just can not reccomend a taurus.  The taurus' have a reputation for a couple things, motor mounts, and transmissions for starters.  I would be looking at Hondas or Toyotas.  I am not a big fan of the GM version mid size cars either.  Honda and Toyota are #1 and #2, and there is a huge drop from there to 3rd.  You just cant get a better all around vehicle.