The 3.8 is OK, and about equally as reliable as a contour, probably less recalls than we have. It's handling sucks (me and my friends regularly compare my 'tour and their stangs) compared to our cars but it is a little faster. I'd say get a v8 5speed if you want a stang. If you want a v6 auto, my friend will probably be selling his soon, regularly maintained and very clean.
