Mopar: Yes, I understand that it, like our Crossfires is simply one brand of car being sold as another. The price difference between it and the Taurus is in the interior amenities - leather, butt warmers, etc. I'm not a Ford fan, so I am leery of this car, but it fits my price range and feature set (the AWD and stick are big pluses).

RickZ: Thanks for the warning. But I am now trained in emergency hood release maneuvers! :P

Terry: Thanks for the first-hand info. That's what I really need to know: what owners think of them.

MDaniels: Thanks, I will keep that in mind as I talk to the owner. It's good advice.