No, you are not dreaming. You didn't travel back in time either. This is NOT a 1980's design from Audi. Or the Passat from 7 years ago. This is the all new for 2005 Ford 500.

It is not a horrific design. It seems well proportioned and pleasant looking. But what else is not! This is the 21st century and we deserve something half way modern, don't you think?

The 500, like its wagon version, the Freestyle is based on a Volvo platform. That's a great thing. It is front wheel drive, but all wheel drive is an option. The only engine fro now is the usual 3.0 Liter V6 used in so many Ford cars. (Including Mazda and Jaguar).

e caThe real news is the choice of transmissions. A 6 speed automatic on the FWD, and a CVT (Like the Murano) on the AWD.r

Once you're inside, it doesn't look much more modern. Except for the cool shifter, like the one in the 2005 Escape.

Offensive and cheap looking fake wood is standard on the Limited and SEL models. But the base SE has carbon fiber trim. And 17 inch wheels. 18 inch are standards on SEL and Limited.

Ford claims the trunk is the largest of any sedan.

Prices should start at around $25 000. With an all new Avalon with a 3.5Liter V6 and over 270 hp coming in the fall, I think Ford will have a tough time selling this car to anyone but rental car companies...

But wait, there's more !!!

They're back to their old tricks from the 1970's, when Mercurys were nothing more than Fords with more chrome. Here is the new Mercury Montego, the exact same car, except for the front end. At least GM was giving Oldsmobile their own designs...