Low Money, High Horsepower: Buy These 3 Cheap, Forgotten Sleepers! Buy or Bust Ep.12

[@neonpeonu]

For clarity...The Bonneville GXP and Grand Prix GXP did not come with the supercharged V6. The Bonneville GXP used the Northstart V8 and the Grand Prix GXP used the LS4 V8. Bonneville SSEI and Grand Prix GTP had the supercharged V6.

[@michaelmartin2276]

I had a Grand Prix GXP. No afm. It was a runner for sure. Bought it for my wife who hated it, to fast for her liking.

[@upscaleshack]

So you're saying a used car auction flipper isn't a definitive source of automotive knowledge? Hmmm.

[@lightningguy4897]

My father had a gtp SC it was pretty quick until it got to 100mph then the thing fell on it's face

[@neonpeonu]

@@upscaleshack I'm not saying anyting other than the information in the video is inaccurate.

[@neonpeonu]

@@lightningguy4897 Yep, they were not known to have very long legs out on the highway.

[@xnreyescj]

0:58 - '04 Infiniti FX45 8:54 - (4th Gen) Ford Taurus SHO (AWD) 17:10 - '09 Chevy Impala SS (FWD)

[@johnschnellbach986]

Thanks for saving 26 minutes

[@genericsomething]

The Taurus in the video is a 6th Gen.

[@Cavemol5823]

Hero ❤

[@xdoodlex2121]

What year is that SHO

[@brandonrobishaw7606]

Ford teaming up with Yamaha was a wonderful thing. Yamaha wasn't much involved after the first generation SHO. The V8 had a major problem with the cam gears not having a keyway (can be fixed). An the downfall is each generation of automatic transmission. The one in the video had a GM design 6 speed auto same as Impala SS fwd. Ford's have had heat treating problems. Was improvement in 2012. Water pump replacement is expensive too.

[@NHDude]

The Impala SS, get ready for the non-upgraded transmission to grenade itself

[@mattbaker5364]

I had a 2006 SS for a few years. Was a surprisingly fun cruiser and it had a great sound, but you guessed it, the transmission grenaded. In it's defense, it did have about 110k miles on it, so it looks like I had one of the better ones in the country. ha

[@zoidzoid87]

Gm should have used the 4t80e. Like the Northstar engines

[@ghawkins816]

My SS trans on my "07"went out at 63k. I had a 5 yr unlimited mile warranty so all it took was a $200 deposit to fix. Once done it had been amazing since I've put over 70k miles on the rebuilt and no issues with the transmission since. Now the rest of the car has been issue after issue.

[@Bear_83]

I had an 06 SS. Got it in 2009 with 34k miles and sold it in 2014 with 73k Mile. Had no trans issues. But the sunroof was leaking on hard rain storm. And went through 2 sets of wheel bearing front and back. And did burn oil. Those DOD engines was a problem Love the torque.

[@brunohsans9779]

$400

[@upscaleshack]

I used to take a drink every time Tommy mentioned the elevation of Boulder but then after my thirteenth liver transplant my doctor said I really should try to stop drinking. I live at 6100 feet of elevation in Nairobi and laugh every time TFL reminds us of their mile-high status. Because the number of times we think about the performance of our cars at our elevation is precisely zero.

[@jada2041]

😂😂😂😂

[@UCFCamaroSS]

Boulder people are completely insular

[@nicholassmith7048]

But thanks to Tommy, you now think about the effect of altitude on your car's performance every time you climb in and are now considering purchasing a twin or even quad turbo-engined car.

[@steelproven]

Hilarious 😂😂

[@mdocod]

I think about it every day, living at ~7300ft, and often driving higher; naturally aspirated cars are starved at this elevation badly. We love turbo's up here!

[@richardfeldman291]

I had a 2011 and 2015 SHO. They made some improvemts starting in 2013 and there were much better brakes on the 2015. Both of them had the Performance Package that gave it a an 3.16 final drive. I put a tune into the 2015 and bumped the HP to 400, at the crank. For a vehicle that weighed in at 4,500lbs., it is fast out of the hole and will just keep pulling.

[@rudyl.103]

Love my 13 SHO! definitely a sleeper and confuses the hell out of people when they hear the turbos😂

[@jeffcheng5058]

Those ecoboosts are amazing

[@KlassicKraze]

My buddy took a 2015 SHO pretty far with mods. He was well under 4 sec. on his 0-60.

[@oneway4667]

Sho has been fast for a while my cousin had one in the early 90s That came with a Yamaha engine and that thing flew

[@WordsMatter1982]

The FX is arguably my favorite car that i owned. Loud, nimble for it's size, good tech (i had an 06). Takes me back to my younger days. You couldn't drive it any way but fast. All those buttons! If i showed my kids that interior, they'd lose their minds.

[@stern12akachris32]

If you happen to get a SS Impala off the first owner you get a spectacular sleeper. It cracks me up that two guys that never owned one are ripping on it. They were a fun tons of room fast car . I owned one to 150,000 miles no problems and the active fuel management that you rip on worked great . I would love to find a one in great shape again .

[@mattbaker5364]

I had a 2006 SS, and it was a great car until the transmission blew. Surprisingly fond of that car, still.

[@anthonykiedis1765]

Coming from a previous owner of an SS, I agree with all of their complaints about the car.

[@2strokeFORever]

​@@mattbaker5364yea transmissions were their biggest issue

[@ryurc3033]

As a mechanic, I love the front wheel drive gm platform cars. Easy to work on. Afm works ok until the lifters give up. Every single one that makes a tick noise had the same exact issue. Roller Wheel gets loose on the end of the lifter, or lifter no longer holds any hydraulic pressure and valve lash grows to ridiculous amounts. (It usually sounds like one in the video when they fail) I've only taken apart 40ish (heads off, change lifters, lifter trays, and sometimes cam), but the crazy amount of these cars that failed before the warranty was up should have caused a recall. Especially because they all fail the same way. The supercharged 3.8 from the earlier generation gtp or regal was so much more reliable.

[@mattbaker5364]

Interesting note, thanks!@@ryurc3033 As a DIYer, I *HATED* where they tucked the battery behind the headlight and under a crossmember.

[@gregoryfarris17]

Pleasseeeeee Do this again!! Like this needs to be monthly lol. We need to know this with times being hard, a lot of us are buying more cash cars than financing right now. Some of the old gems are coming back to life. Thanks again for all the work you guys do! Definitely a subscriber a now lol🎉

[@wb5jysman]

My Mom drove her SHO for 225,000 miles. My sister still drives it today!

[@patm95]

Get ready for the water pump to go out if it hasn’t already. It’ll cost you almost 2k to get it fixed.

[@RRR-jd2oy]

Had mine for 12 years now, a little over 200,000 miles. Never ever had any issues and is tuned. 12.6 at 113 mph. Real sleeper

[@patm95]

@@RRR-jd2oy sounds sweet! My parents have one with 225k and water pump just went out. It’s been pretty reliable otherwise.

[@Mabeylater293]

What years were your SHO’s?

[@patm95]

@@Mabeylater293 2012

[@trustbuster23]

The FX did come with an adaptive cruise control. I had an 07 at one point with it. It worked pretty well, unless it snowed. The sensor would get dirty almost immediately in bad weather because it was mounted low in the front of the car. It was before all that high tech stuff moved up to above the mirror. The exhaust was also tuned from the factory to make it almost comically loud and aggressive. It was the SUV for people who really didn't want an SUV at all.

[@minxlabrada]

It's a cool SUV and would be fun to do a Safari Rally type buildout on one.

[@midrangetorque]

That's probably intentional because you're not supposed to use cruise control in snow or in rain. My '08 M35x has adaptive cruise and it shuts itself off in rain or snow. Also, in winter, if you turn on the "snow" button, it won't even allow you to activate the cruise. Also, the cruise turns itself off when driving into a sunset/sunrise that's low on the horizon with poor visibility. Adaptive cruise is annoying, but it works how it's supposed to.

[@Wicked_RotF30]

These were some great bargains. I’m loving the 2000-2006 Suburban. Very inexpensive and you can use it as a camper. Suboverland shows what’s possible with the beast of a platform for adventuring outdoors. Not to mention the 5.3L is so reliable and easily modded to handle crazy power reliably, Richard Holdener’s channel is dedicated to proving affordable and reliable engine builds.

[@Clutch_Kick187]

No one is modding a 2000 suburban and making crazy power.. and if you do mod one to make "crazy power" the transmission will have to be changed out for at the very least a 4L80.. which is not a cheap swap either.. Most just buy a newer one and get rid of the AFM, and drive it till it rusts apart.. I have an 02 GMC sierra, and an 05 tahoe.. both have over 200k miles, on the original engine and trans. They do run forever, but you have to do proper maintenance, the front end and accessories, water pumps, alternators, starters, ball joints, shocks, brakes, ect ect.. You have to be willing to spend the money to keep them running, but it is cheaper than a new truck.. I sold my paid off 2018 lifted f150 with 77k miles last year to a neighbor for $40k and bought the Tahoe for $6k.. only paid $47k for the truck brand new.. Never buying a brand new truck again..

[@nabeelmohammed2781]

2007+ V6 Camry's should have been here -sub 6-second 0-60, 268 hp, runs on 87 octane, and classic Toyota reliability. Another would be the 2004-2008 Acura TL (270 HP at the minimum, 0-60 in 5.8 seconds) - also has available 6 Spd manual

[@volvo09]

The 04-08 TL's are great. I used to work at an Acura dealer when those were new and they were my favorite car.

[@ThePuffin77]

I think they were trying to get the odd balls on camera as the Taurus has turbos and the impala has a V8. Altimas, Fusions, 200s, and Passats of that mid to late 2000s era were all high 5 second 0-60 cars.

[@leviheim]

Also the v6 rav 4

[@johnnyrocket4357]

2007 V6 Camry's had a 0-60 @ 6.8 sec

[@zachc1297]

@@ThePuffin77 Those Fusions Sport would flat get it. Also, the last edition Honda CrossTour. Wasnt super quick off line, but a roll racer it was and could cruise right at 100 on the interstate no problem.

[@MrNomad505]

Lincoln MKS was the SHO with Lincoln trim and better suspension. Super roomy and comfortable for long trips. And the trunk is HUGE.

[@Bear_83]

Really didnt know. Wasnt the MKS smaller

[@MrNomad505]

@@Bear_83 MKZ is smaller. MKS is a taurus in lincoln trim. I had a 2013 for several years. Loved it.

[@davidreeves2596]

My 2014 Ford Flex has the ecoboost motor as well.. a SHO with 3 rows. Lol

[@LamelKendrick]

those are not lookers but i mean it's a vehicle. have you liked it?@@davidreeves2596

[@Silverback_GMT410]

A sleeper that I want is a Ford Flex with the 3.5L Ecoboost and AWD. It would be amazing with a lift and decent tire. Perfect for camping

[@zachc1297]

See comments on water pump issues, or google that before buying.

[@302Mustang13]

​@@zachc1297Why?? Is that because of the internal water pump? I'm no expert on these but I'd replace the water pump and timing chain at 100k or 150k miles then. Problem solved. I usually do replace a water pump by then b/c they are known to go around then.

[@bempey]

But if you buy a thirsty Flex, you must pair it with a Mini for commuting ... and paint them both the same. White roof, preferably with the British Union Jack flag, and body in a contrasting darker color. If I was painting both, BRG (british racing green) would work. But on a budget, I'd paint the one needing body repairs (after fixing, obv) the same as the good one 😅

[@typxxilps]

I love this entertaining format of cars we usually can not buy cause they do not fit here in the EU, far too thirsty and usually too big. But great format to see how these cars are performing in the auction versus the estimates you discussed before.

[@brycem0]

Fun fact, the Infinity you tested, is basically a stretched jacked up rebodied 350/370Z. My daily driver, is a later model Qx70 with a 3.0L diesel. That engine didn't make it to the States. But is a peach with 175kw and 550nm torque at 1700rpm. Around 32mpg as well.

[@sunshinelolipops1]

Sigh. I miss 2004. That Infiniti FX interior gave me crazy nostalgia even though I've never even owned one or sat in one before.

[@pinkflydnt]

Another little pocket rocket was the mid 2000s Toyota Rav 4 Limited with the Camry's 3.5 Litre V6; those things would scoot right along.

[@oldtwinsna8347]

In AWD trim faster than the equivalent V6 camry as it hooked up and transferred power to the ground far better.

[@YourMomsPlaceLastNight]

Why not the mid 2000s camry then ? Lighter than the rav 4......not many know that camrys had 268hp in that v6.....same with rav 4 and 4 runner.....people sleep on Ford Flex suv with 325 hp 2.7 twin turbo v6 with awd......fusion sport 2017 to 2019 had same engine....

[@anthonybartholomew2173]

Ford flex was 3.5 v6 ecoboost 355 hp ans all wheel drive.

[@djkenny1202]

Could you get a 3rd row seat?

[@bobyoung1698]

I once drove an F45 from West Michigan to Chicago and back. It was an incredible car to drive. The horsepower was amazing, and it had a tight, highly responsive suspension.

[@80s_Boombox_Collector]

I wouldn't trust Nissan parts that old, however, especially the transmission or interior electronics. Nissan has a history of abandoning parts supplies also.

[@Nestle245]

It drives and handles just like a bigger 350Z. These are sporty and aged well. Still see many of these on the road.

[@Bear_83]

​@@80s_Boombox_Collector you caping

[@buddahbaker]

​@@80s_Boombox_Collector the great thing about Nissan and Infiniti is they shared many parts across the entire range of their models. A simple cross reference and you grab parts easily. The FX35 was the better grab if you didn't want AWD. Almost all performance parts for 350z or G35 will fit the FX35

[@satalac]

The 04-08 Subaru Forester XT is an awesome sleeper. STi block with the WRX turbo and intercooler. All the STi parts bolted right up and actually made more power than the STi when swapped. 0-60 in 5.3 seconds stock. Could be had in a manual as well. I miss my 04 a ton.

[@minxlabrada]

Sold a few of those when I worked at a Subie Dealership. Great little SUV. Hard to find one unmolested now. Didn't they make an STi version? Or was it yet another cool looking concept that Subaru couldn't manage to get into production, (like those awesome looking WRX concepts that were never made.)

[@robertalicea5585]

Always wanted one but aren't they known for head gasket issues?

[@robublind7528]

​@@robertalicea5585head gasket, piston rings, and rod bearings, but the 5 speed trans will let go first, if you just rebuild your motor every time it eats a transmission, you'll be set. 👍

[@onefastboi14]

Those are definitely cool cars. I like to think my S Type R is a sleeper

[@byronnlangley]

STI block? You mean it came with an EJ25 boxer? Same engine in the WRX STI BRZ for a while they used that engine in a lot of vehicles heck even the crosstrek came with the EJ25.

[@rileypart1]

4:45 I did some researcher, yeah back in 2004 Infiniti did offered | Intelligent Cruise Control | - use computerized laser sensors to detect vehicles ahead while automatically maintaining the preset following distance. |Brake Assist with Preview| According to 2004 Infiniti Brochure this was available in Technology Package on FX45 and FX35.

[@GettingthruLife]

Love the Infiniti FX35/45 back in early 2000's and still even today pretty good-looking and value. I have a 2019, bought new, sport rwd Infiniti Q50 3.OT twin turbo ecu tuned. Also, the first two generations of Ford SHO V6 motor was designed and made by Yamaha Motor Company.

[@bradzimmerman3171]

Getting ? Not correct the SHO heads were done over Not the whole engine ( Cosworth forever...!)

[@YourMomsPlaceLastNight]

​​@@bradzimmerman3171cosworth did not build these engines either.....the 3.2 Yamaha heads were built at fords Ontario Canada plant....FORD manufactured aluminum blocks using THE COSWORTH PROCESS.......then blocks were shipped to Japan for finishing by Yamaha......everything but block is Yamaha......

[@YourMomsPlaceLastNight]

Was looking at q50s but then I came across the 2018 Ford Fusion Sport 2.7 v6 twin turbo AWD....same hp as q50 but has 100 lbs more torque stock.....I beat scat packs with just a very very mild tune and exhaust......no one knows these exist only made for 3 yrs......2017 to 2019......never on anyone's sleeper list.....

[@economicfusion6065]

Or go one step above and get the lincoln mkz 3.0 awd 400 hp 400 tq stock

[@justinmorrison3219]

The fx35 and 45 we're probably ahead-of-its-time in 2004 and sounded great and performed wonderful. I actually wanted one but with the constant transmission problems that they had and the expense to fix them you would have to get a very low mileage 21 like one with 50,000 miles even today because they're all over OfferUp with broken Transmissions and usually especially now to fix the transmission cost more than the car itself.

[@aaronmelson2887]

I had a 2012 Impala LTZ I bought used back in July 2013. It was silver, with the factory 18s, beige leather interior and a sunroof. The 2012s were the first year that GM put in the 3.6 and 6 speed auto. It was a great car. The car had 30k miles on it when I bought it and when I sold it in November 2019 it had about 75k miles. The only issue I had was with the blend door making all that noise. I replaced that myself (got a bad quality video of it on my channel). Otherwise no issues with the engine or trans. I love Impalas so I now have a 2020 Impala Premier I bought new back in June 2020. I never drove or owned an SS of any year.

[@mccleary92]

Another awesome sleepwr option is the 2012-14 Hyundai Genesis 5.0 R spec. Can be had well under $10k now. 429 reliable horsepower and total sleeper looks.

[@ZRCards]

Thanks for putting me on to these wow they are sweet

[@cormaro13]

Til electric problems pop up cause its Korean junk 😂

[@scittw22]

I had a 2011 SHO. It was high mileage and constantly breaking down. I don’t know if the previous owner dogged it out or if it was a sign they age poorly. It was comfortable and stupid fast. I miss it

[@dragonxz61]

Taurus is a really cool car, I would buy one but as you said, that model seems to have issues at high milage, (150k+) which isn't uncommon for any car. The previous owner probably didn't treat it great because who would.. it looks so fun. I hope you get another great car brother!

[@tedweeke9988]

I still daily a 2011 SHO. It’s never been tuned and other than control arm bushings last year, it’s been perfectly dependable. Car is definitely a blast to own

[@Blue-moon12]

I had a 2010 and 2013. Maintained meticulously, still long term reliability was below average. Still have a video of my 2013 on my channel

[@unit1619]

I bought a 2011 SHO last year. Engine blew a month after purchasing (I wasn’t thorough enough when I bought it) I decided to have the engine completely overhauled including a new core. It was expensive but worth it for me since I’ve always had a affinity for the Taurus and the Gen 6 is just good looking, comfortable, and damn quick.

[@teedyb807]

I don’t have a sho but a 2013 3.5 meticulous maintained with over 205k and I drive it hard on e85 pretty fast and still can get over 30 mpg cursing 💪

[@man_on_wheelz]

I have a 2010 Lincoln MKS Ecoboost which I call a SHO in a tuxedo. It's got 10 less HP but all the same running gear, and it offers an "Ecoboost Package" which substitutes all the interior wood for this metallic looking stuff and adds a body kit, blacked out headlights, and a short spoiler. Or you can make it a true sleeper like mine and have none of that, looking like a normal MKS. I tell ya, that car is much faster than you'd think by looking at it. I've embarrassed so many hot-heads at traffic lights who think they could overtake me because they think they have a fast car. When I want to get out of the traffic group I'm in on the expressway, a quick blip of the throttle and I'm outta there! The Taurus SHO and it's more sophisticated cousin the MKS Eco are some seriously underrated and under-discussed cars, especially the MKS. No, they don't handle very well, and yes you have to brake earlier than some cars, minding your curb weight, but they're really not bad cars.

[@neofx22]

The passenger side dash has melted on that specific part which is why its being covered by a small patch on the fx35. Common problem. I drove an 2011 fx35 for about 25 weeksnlast year but traded it. Nice vehicle, good power delivery, but it drank fuel horribly, which requires premium grade. Vehicle felt small inside for a midsize.

[@jacksonnordhues5961]

Taurus for the win! I have driven one and they are really nice and fast. I have an MKS with the non turbo 3.7 and that thing is fast

[@miguelvega7769]

The 2003-2008 Fx35 Fx45 are one of the best SUVs Infiniti did, super easy to work and fix, parts are always available since the fx35 has parts from the g35 and 350z, I love my 2006 Fx35 with over 270,000 miles on it

[@minxlabrada]

Impressive millage!

[@billermanthegreat]

I used to work with a guy that really wanted to be a cop super bad, and he had one of these SHOs I will never forget this association

[@danwake4431]

engines mounted longitudinal are done in vehicles that are designed as RWD but come in AWD. Transverse engines are for vehicles that are designed as FWD but come in AWD. For example Stingers and some Cadillacs have the engines longitudinal because if you don't want AWD you get RWD. Ford Escapes and vehicles like that if you don't want AWD you get FWD so the engine is in sideways. which is why the RWD/AWD platforms almost always handle better when driven in a spirited manner.

[@justinray662]

if you guys think the FX45 is a sleeper you should look into the FX50 (5.0L DOHC V8 390hp) or the M56XS an AWD V8 performance sedan with an optional japanes white ash interior (5.6L V8 420HP) two completely forgotten killers for the money

[@WordsMatter1982]

The FX50 was a monster, but it looked terrible.

[@jonwebb2842]

I had the previous Impala SS.2004 w the Supercharged 3.8 it was fwd. Only mentioning because you forgot

[@minxlabrada]

Lot of bang for the buck in the 2001-2004 Nissan Pathfinder. My 2001 Pathfinder is 2nd gen with a unibody-frame with the all-aluminum V6 developed for the Z. Mine is the 3.5 SE with a rare 5-spd manual. Super fun to drive in 2WD on a dirt road. And 4WD is competent. Currently not titled as I am restoring it. Picked mined up from a mechanic for 5K and drove it hard for 5 years. Seen them anywhere from 2-7K, (Mostly automatics, only saw 1 other manual Pathfinder ever). And the Infinity version is full-time AWD and are also a good deal.

[@daymeongartrell4809]

2017-2020 Lincoln MKZ RESERVE 2... 3.0TWIN TURBO AWD 400hp, 400ftlb.

[@mkzenthusiasts]

What about a 2018 Lincoln MKZ AWD 3.0 tt putting out stock 400 horsepower and 400 torque It can be easily modified to put up 550 wheel horsepower and 5 00 wheel torque You missed one a big one

[@ryurc3033]

I had a supercharged 3.8 99 regal. Smaller pulley, bigger injectors, tune, and bigger exhaust. Looked like grandpas car, but would outrun a 89 Corvette, 88 formula firebird with a mild 350, 350z....even beat a nitrous small block s10(he couldn't hook up) .it was ridiculous for what it was, could knock down 25mpg, comfortable, reliable. Wish I had another one.

[@michaelday6987]

I went from a Dodge Charger RT to a Ford Taurus SHO. I was absolutely shocked at how bad the SHO interior felt compared to the Charger (And many people complain about the Charger). The adaptive cruise control in the SHO was the only advantage over the Charger.

[@christopherhicks4566]

Can get that in the charger too.

[@michaelday6987]

@@christopherhicks4566 It’s available, but requires a very specific package, and it’s VERY rare to see on a dealer lot.

[@Limited-uq2yk]

I have a sho and also had a charger and the interior quality is definitely not better in the charger

[@chynacash3138]

@@michaelday6987 Did the Charger R/T feel any quicker or slower than the SHO?

[@Reyd_01]

I had a '06 GXP v8 for 6 yrs, best/quickest/strongest A/C ever made.. I 93 oct flashed out the DoD and it was a great, weird, reliable, sleeper fun ride for a long time, until..... One Xmas I pulled some nanny-less FWD slingnuts in 4" of snow being an idiot, and it blew the water pump and the powersteering pump. Replaced entire front rack and both pumps with random brand, took forever to bleed over days, but water pumps good, steering whined and was in/out every 5 turns. Dealership blamed FWD tire width (factory 255) for lag, when the original magnasteer could rack from end to end with a pinky finger, and I went through 2 more pump replacements, from AC Delco, to finding out AC Delco isn't OEM, to installing OEM and making the effort to baby and get rid of the nightmare car at 74k Still miss her tho.... Also cuz no one asked, there's a $100 special GM tool to torque-loosen the belt tension arm when working on beltside components on this LS. If you rack the front wheels left, through the wheelwell access flap you can see the spring loaded housing for the belt tensioning. Use a $.50 4" worm hose clamp around the housing to compress and repair anything in the belt system.

[@oliverhodge2813]

The SHO should have been a given. One of my favorites. Same implant that they use in the GT........come on. A tune and you have an extra 100 or more horsepower.

[@Lonewolf37]

I’m surprised you didn’t mention the fact that AFM can be disabled. It costs a little money to get a disabler, but it seems to be a fairly common practice (at least among enthusiasts) when it comes to GM V8s that have cylinder deactivation.

[@Slizzo82]

All that does, really, is delay the AFM lifters failing. They invariably do fail even if AFM is disabled.

[@Clutch_Kick187]

To do it correctly you need to change the lifters out, before they score the cam, if you wait too long, you have to pull the heads, change the lifters & cam shaft, then buy an aftermarket block off valley cover, to remove the vlom.. If you just trick the AFM from activating, those lifters still either get stuck or fail in some way.. If your super lucky you can make it to 150-170k miles.. some don't make it near that far, if they neglect oil changes or drive a lot of highway miles or idle a lot.

[@Alfadragon17]

I love the 3.5 duratec V6 vehicles! Yes, the waterpump is trouble along with PTU failures for any 3.5 duratec Ford with AWD but that's a small price to pay for a practical 4 door sedan that's quick, with decent mpgs. They're fantastic! Would I trade my 6-speed manual 6.4 hemi for it? Maybe not... but a Taurus SHO would make a great winter car adjacent to my Challenger.

[@colewo92]

I had an ‘06 Impala SS, bought it in 2013 with 67k miles and it was a good runner until the transmission went at 100,000 miles. I had the DoD deleted with a tune right when I bought it so that could’ve helped. Also, the 5.3 vortec that’s in all the silverados and tahoes is a LQ engine code, not an LS engine code. AMy LS4 in the impala had LS6 heads from the factory which was cool.

[@RRR-jd2oy]

Typical Chevy 😂

[@krzi-o5619]

I would’ve been pretty worried about that big gouge in the right front tire , looked deep. Wouldn’t want to go very fast or far with that tire at all. But I always liked the SHO cars. 👍👍👍✌️✌️✌️

[@pinkflydnt]

Do a DOD delete and build up that 4T65E tranny and the Impala SS goes from being highly unreliable to a bargain sleeper. On the SHO, the main thing to keep an eye on is that internally driven water pump and change the lube out in the PTU (transfer case) every 20,000 miles and she's pretty solid. I don't know much about the Infinity other than it's a slick looking little SUV.

[@bugkillintxn]

I bought an 09' g37 sedan for 3 grand 2 yrs ago and it has been one of the quickest most comfortable cars I've ever owned

[@danseeloff867]

It's funny how they're saying the SS is unreliable yet the one they've driving has 174,000 miles on it. Seems reliable to me. I've owned 2 of them & other than a few minor issues they were good to me and fun to drive.

[@joemaimaron2701]

Those people don’t know about the car dead giveaway when the bitch about front wheel drive and the transmission mine has always been good tn me

[@kclefthanded427]

Watch out for the Ford 3.5 Duratec, 3.5 EcoBoost, and 3.7 Duratec V-6 on FWD. When those water pumps start leaking, it could be too late to fix it because of the design (behind the timing chain)

[@micahpage3725]

A failed water pump can destroy the motor in some of the Taurus models/motors.

[@lanesummers746]

On the front drive oriented 3.5 ecoboost the water pumps were timing chain driven. This means on failure, you risk mixing coolant with your oil, and bye, bye engine.

[@mikeanthony-gb7uv]

Now this is something.. I own a 2006 fx35 awd tech/sport trim paid $4250 with 143k miles it’s at 270k running fine. I financed a 2008 impala ss in 2009, traded it for a 2005 magnum r/t awd a few months later. I didn’t like the front wheel drive but had positive equity in the SS so I didn’t have to put down for the magnum.

[@bigpoppa1992]

I'd like to have a infinite fx50 5.0 v8. I had a 1998 SHO and a 2010 SHO. I loved the 2010 so luxurious and quick especially with a few mods like a tune.

[@FtheP]

Had an '09 FX50S. Awesome machine. Traded it for a Frontier Pro4X, ironically for better gas mileage.

[@BakingThePoundcake]

love watching you guys at the auction lot

[@brianbird3756]

We have an '11 Taurus SE, you most definitely CAN turn off the traction control. We also own a '15 SHO with the performance package, you can turn off traction control on it as well, tho my favorite is to double-click the TC button. What you were looking for was the NON-performance package SHOs would not allow you to turn traction control off. And yes, my wife's SHO does beat my cts-v off the line, but that quickly changes...

[@Sonic_1000]

My neighbor use to have an SS Impala and my wife's old 2007 Camry SE V6 would smoke it

[@egs2169]

The VQ engines from Nissan/Infiniti were so good. Reliable, powerful and relatively efficient.

[@cormaro13]

Just not the transmission 😂

[@egs2169]

@@cormaro13 the conventional auto is fine. The CVT was garbage

[@cormaro13]

@@egs2169 u mean that 7 speed trash that didn't like power being added to it 🤣 yea those tap out at 400 rwhp

[@digitalkov]

It'll be nice to inform the viewers of issues with particular model and some expectations of possible expense after purchase. You don't want kids to just go out and buy these based only on specs and a "buy" verdict a d find out they need to drop $$$ soonafter purchase. Also, the sold price doesn't mean anything without disclosing the mileage.

[@rickyhart37]

I say its the same idea of the sho but the one people sleep on is the fusion sport 2.7 Ecoboost v6 awd

[@asam9498]

The 2004 FX45 taillights and headlights are way ahead of its time. It was literally the first coupe SUV and cars like the Porsche Cayenne coupe and Range Rover Sport has similar design.

[@BfSkinnerPunk]

JUst discovered this channel....what a fun idea! Auctions with joe six pack cars....even extra crappy ones....and guessing their bids. Love it.

[@mattlimberg5763]

I think the MKS with that Ecoboost is a better sleeper than the SHO, and typically cheaper yet nicer when used than a comparable SHO. Unfortunately, it is a little on the ugly side. I can hear Natahn screaming since it is a Sedan version of the MKT

[@AEsmondeProductions]

the MKS can look really good with the Sport Appearance package, it's stupid rare though.

[@donaldcolbert8317]

Love my MKS ecoboost. It's the only "fun" car I've ever owned that my wife will ride in.

[@XxViciousxX]

I love my 2010 MKS it's fun as hell but mine keeps eating turbos for breakfast. But I guess that will happen when you have the boost pushed to the max on the stock turbos. But when it's working it surprises quite a lot of cars out there. No one expects a MKS to move like mine does.

[@AEsmondeProductions]

@@XxViciousxX I was shopping around for one for a bit but now I'm more interested in the MKZ 3.0T

[@XxViciousxX]

@@AEsmondeProductions Those are still really cool cars and the 3.0 is arguably a little bit better than the 3.5 at least from what I was reading. I personally just liked the way the MKS looked I'm one of the rare ones who actually likes the looks of it Most people do not think it looks very good.

[@FranciscoOrtizGonzalez]

I had a 2010 Taurus SHO and it was amazing, so amazing that I am looking for a low mileage 2018-2019 to buy one again! It is obvious that you do not know about the original Sony sound system equipped within the 2010 Taurus SHO. You mentioned at 12:35 that the audio system was pretty bad but it was actually GREAT! It had navigation system, voice commands, Bluetooth for cell phone, SYNC (1) system, Sirius XM, and a hard disk to rip your preferred CDs, with auto download of song titles, and it could even read DVDs with MP3s. You were able to create song lists, and to top it off, you could watch DVDs when parked as it was locked while driving because of security issues (basic common sense, right?). So, yeah! IT WAS GREAT!!! Good video though!!! 💪🏼💪🏼💪🏼

[@frankmartin1325]

I loved my Flex 2010 with EcoBoost like the Taurus SHO, the worst part was the sucky fuel mileage and the small fuel tank.

[@robertstone9988]

My 17 explorer sport has same drive train.

[@seankadar9550]

I purchased a 2006 impala ss new. Put just over 100k miles on it and never had an issue. Tongue steer when floored but it was a cool car. I actually loved the simplicity of the interior.

[@cormaro13]

Too low quality for others , especially in the transmission, you'll probably only get that much out of it before it goes bye bye

[@TraveladvRajanSRai]

It wnt n cheap to build

[@jayhiggins5239]

The FX45 is heavy up front. Even with the upgrades, miles are hard on the font end.

[@rcairforceone]

Of these three I'm taking the SHO. The FX is forgettable to me, and the Impala is just a dud. The SHO has some aftermarket support, and the AWD would make it pretty fun. When the Impala SS debuted in 2007 it didn't really have domestic competition. That probably hurt its development.

[@scottconn62]

One car to look out for is a Honda Accord 6-Speed Coup. They were introduced in 2003. I had one that ran pretty well. Mind you the 2013 Mustang GT premium I traded it in for would completely spank it, but in 2003 it was surprisingly quick and had really good seats. It's definitely a sleeper.

[@302Mustang13]

Tough times?

[@scottconn62]

@@302Mustang13 I got the Mustang to replace the Fox Body Stang I traded when my son was born. In 2013 he graduated college and went off my payroll. The 2013 was fulfilment of a promise that I would get another one when he was out of the house. The 2003 Accord was my last car before the 2013 Mustang. The Accord was a pretty nice ride at the time.

[@jacobyo99]

The SS power numbers are funny because when they started putting the 3.6 and 6 speed automatic in the impala in 2012 it was only slightly slower than the SS with the V8

[@calebmedina4689]

I have the 3.6 in my 2013 and i always thought that was pretty weird it’s like a 3hp difference😂

[@joemaimaron2701]

The ss was discontinued in 2009 and the new v6 made 300hp for 2012

[@chynacash3138]

@@calebmedina4689 Big difference in torque between the 3.6L and V8 though, but the old 4 speed auto in the V8 probably helped narrow the performance gap between the two in the real world.

[@Robbie85291]

I have a SHO and I’ll never get rid of it. I love it. It’s so fun to drive and it will be with me forever. R.

[@HoUsEoFcAtS78]

The FX45 is quick! We used to have a 2004. It was fantastic! Paid $2200 for it. Immediately replaced all the brakes and rear wheel bearings. As well as the valve cover gaskets. It would take off full throttle around a corner from a stop without even a chirp. So the VDC does it's job really well. And it has a "snow" button. Which makes it amazing in heavy snow-covered roads! Unfortunately it was totalled in a wreck. So we bought a 2008 QX56. Later, we bought a 2009 G37xs, a 2007 FX35(which is not nearly as powerful as the 45), and now we have a 2014 QX80. My wife will not drive anything other than Infiniti vehicles now. Guess I got her spoiled. While I drive a 2001 Chevy. LMAO! 🤣😂

[@chaleowin7732]

I had a silver 95 SHO from 95-2001. I can't describe how much I beat on that car, no issues other than basic maint.

I used to have the first gen SHO 1989. An amazing car. But really hard to maintain here in Sweden, there is like 2-3 of them in the country, So all SHO special parts had to be imported from the US. But the sound that Yamaha built V6 produced was a really great sound.

[@onefastboi14]

Definitely a lot of cool sleepers out there for reasonable. Found a 06 Jaguar S Type R and it’s been more of a sleeper than I ever thought. 0-60 in the low 4’s and 1/4 mile times in the low 13’s high 12’s stock.

[@Br99klynINg24_8]

Have my 2005 infiniti fx35 since new. Basic maintenance. Now used as my winter vehicle. I daily a chevy ss and even with that beast my fx35 gives me a feeling the ss cant. Maybe just nostalgia but nonetheless i love both my babies

[@JamesFromTexas]

The Taurus SHO is such a fun car to dry. Huge, luxurious interior with a twin tubo V6 for more pawah babeh! Just like the Impala SS. I like all of Chevy's SS line-up.

[@mastafa4517]

This is my first watch to this programming “review” & “auction”. I am really liking this. . . Thanks guys❤

[@ottovonbismarck7094]

Id throw in the chrysler 300 with the Hemi, it seems you can get them far cheaper than chargers, and with more options. Even AWD with the Hemi is an exclusive 300 option

[@mrbelvedere1632]

I agree, but then you have to maintain a Chrysler

[@J.Young808]

Unless you can find an old Police cruiser AWD Hemi

[@kenik2023]

​@@mrbelvedere1632 As much as you maintain any other car😂 Just keep your Toyota you'll be fine with all the other lemmings😂

[@RomanM803]

@@mrbelvedere1632same would be with the ford and Chevy impala with the transmission issues.

[@chynacash3138]

You could get AWD with all of the Chrysler LX cars back then not just the 300.

[@Leon-uj7pc]

The 2010-2019 non SHO Taurus does have a way to turn off and on the traction control. You have to go into the settings menu on the gauge cluster to access it. The Eco-boost 3.5l is fast but just as much a pain as the regular 3.5l in that the water pump requires the engine to come out to have it done properly and more crap needs to come off to do any servicing. The 2010-2019 Taurus looks like somebody dropped something on it and crushed the roof down and the ginormous center console makes it feel like you are in a canoe. Of course I might be biased a bit with the roominess in those cars because I have a 2009 Taurus (aka a 2005-2007 Ford 500 with a different engine/trans and more fake chrome and wood)

[@danherwireless986]

I love this show, because you guys reviews more affordable cars the we can buy instead the new ones. thanks for that.

[@buckhorncortez]

One of the features of the SHO is a trunk large enough for four bodies...

[@supersteve1585]

One huge problem with the Ford Taurus is the water pump because since the V6 is transversely mounted, it has a internal water pump which is a huge pain to repair and expensive. Not just the Taurus like other models with transversely mounted v6 such as the last Gen Explorer have the same problem.

[@djsob82]

The 05-06 Pontiac GTOs and the 08-10 Pontiac G8 GXPs were some powerhouses for GM, aside from the Corvette.

[@HoUsEoFcAtS78]

The FX45 did in fact have adaptive cruise control. As well as parking sensors and rearview camera.

[@jmjsharwarko]

Great video the FX is cool SHO is also cool but the SS for me is AWESOME!! I remember when me and my dad rented one on a trip to Pennsylvania it was brand new super fun GREAT MEMORIES!! I would buy in a heartbeat especially for $400/500 dollars..

[@IKhanNot]

The Ford Taurus SHO is a beast but make sure you do the water pump and might as well do the timing chains and associated parts at the same time. When those water pumps fail it pretty much equates to engine failure.

[@jaymorrison2419]

Yep. Water pump and timing chains, PTU, or the BorgWarner rattlecans they have as turbos. All 4 are just ticking bombs in the SHO. I love mine, and I think Ill keep loving it right up until the warranty runs out.

[@lanesummers746]

Had a 2011 Sho. No problems with it, but saw it as a time bomb. Future oil leaking turbos, and cant forget the timing chain driven water pump. Such a crazy thing to have your entire engine destroyed when coolant mixes with oil inside the engine. Sold ours with 80k.

[@chynacash3138]

Yeah those Ford Duratec V6 engines would have been reliable if not for the absolutely stupid water pump design that kills most of them if it's not replaced preventively.

[@Leorgo]

The infinity still looks great for a 2004 model. I feel like most suvs look like that these days. They used the blueprint.

[@jonashutchinson8777]

My friend's car-guy dad had an impala SS when we were 5th graders, and I remember being very surprised when he goosed it...I can still smell the little trees black ice air freshener

[@davet766]

Love my v8 K900. 420/365 0-60 in the mid 5s and a factory rated top end of 180+. Not bad for a 2 ton lux.

[@joshtavenner3073]

Brings back memories had a new Impala SS in 2007. Sure rental car interior and wrong wheel drive but was a solid DD that sure was quick.

[@gavin047]

In Aus we had the ford Ford Falcon XR6 turbo with 370hp rwd with zf 6spd. Or XR8 with the coyote 5.0 with 450hp. Or fpv typhoon with 4.0 i6 turbo 420hp. The Falcon gt had a supercharged 5.0

[@loganlovescarsandmotorcycles]

There is an FX50. Rare and cool. I know I guy who has one. Upgraded from the V6 which really isn't bad either.

[@donaldwilson2620]

Another good sleeper car is the 9th generation Honda Accord with the 278 hp 3.5L V6 and the 10th generation Honda Accord with the 250 hp 2.0 L Turbo engine, essentially a detuned Type R engine. Both engine choices are really fast. My personal favorite is the Accord V6 coupe with the optional 6 speed manual.

[@AEsmondeProductions]

That 2.0T was way underrated. I've seen a bone stock 6-speed put down 265 at the wheels.

[@casmithc2]

Infiniti FX50 has 395 HORSEPOWER!! Getcha Sum!!

[@FtheP]

Very under radar sleeper. Mine got me in trouble too often, but sleeper for sure.

[@einfeldt777]

This videos are really fun, seeing some of the forgotten heroes and villains again. I’m so glad you guys are having some fun with it too 🤗🤗

[@i_shoot_jello2423]

thank you for this video help me out a lot

[@stonepa]

My neighbor had a black Impala SS. Chrome 20” OEM wheels. Aftermarket exhaust. If you didn’t see the car at startup you would think it was a built Corvette.

[@JosephFrietze]

SHO! I still regret passing up a manual SHO back in grad school, but I needed something with better gas mileage.

[@Obinnto]

yes! u have an 07 infiniti m45 with the same engine as the fx45 but in a sedan about about 500 pounds lighter, plenty of fun!

[@tannerthomas5986]

I remember when the put the newer 3.6 in those old impalas while they were also building the new impalas and they 3.6 was faster than the SS😂

[@wompa70]

I wanted an FX-45 so bad. My wallet, however, did not. The Taurus is just too big for me. Those years of the Impala SS are just sad. Regardless of condition.