Fully redesigned like its Ford Taurus sibling, Mercury's midsize sedan and wagon featured more-rounded contours, greater interior space, plus a new V6 engine with dual-overhead camshafts. Wheelbase grew by 2.5 inches (to 108.5), and the car measured nearly 6 inches longer. Sedans may have seating for five or six. Station wagons came with similar seating choices, holding five to eight--the latter when a 2-place, rear-facing third seat is installed. GS Sables held a 145-horsepower, 3.0-liter overhead-valve V6 engine. The LS carried a 200-horsepower, dual-overhead-cam 3.0 V6. Both engines drove a 4-speed automatic. Dual airbags were standard; antilock brakes optional on all models.