I had a 24v Ford Scorpio Cosworth 2 years ago and was very impressed with the acceleration and top speed (70 of course). 2nd gear jumped a bit on engagement (auto) but did not affect ride too much. Tyre choice is very important as back end in snow or ice is similar to a boat. Interior is very nice especially Ultima with leather and walnut effect on curvy dash is stunning. ABS light tends to illuminate whether system is gubbed or not but ford should sort problem if concerned. I now have 12v ultima 2.9 v6 and for the second time the battery symbol is illuminated but no electrical prob seems to be there. I noticed a stray wire on alternator and reconnected it, this put light out but recently has came back on. Depreciation on these cars was frightening but was much in the favour of drivers who enjoy big, comfy fast cars for sweetie money. So many motoring journalists jumped on the bandwagon with the cars looks but I ' m sure they were not the best looking either (Mr Clarkson ' ), I love the look, especially the rear. All cars nowadays look the same and lack character, I think people just didn ' t have the cojones to drive a car with looks that turn heads.

Overall a car that is very good value for money. It's well equipped and with ABS and traction control it handles very well for its size. But don't pay over the odds for it, accelerates well, brakes are second to none, it will stop from 60-0 in half the 240ft the Highway Code refers to. if that. Just make sure the first thing you do when you buy it is change that thermostat - they are chronically sticky and if it doesn't let the water into your engine the repair bills will look like they were in Lira!!!! An omega MV6 is better but for the money this car is very hard to beat. The Cosworth head makes no end of difference. With a better stylist and all cars equipped with this top half engine the Scorpio may have taken over from the BMW 5 series. But unless you get this one you may be disappointed.