OUTLINE: This is a randomized study. Patients are stratified by disease status, performance status, and participating institution. Patients are randomized to one of two treatment arms. Arm I: Patients receive cisplatin IV over 30-120 minutes on day 1 and fluorouracil IV over 96 hours on days 1-4. Courses repeat every 3 weeks in the absence of disease progression or unacceptable toxicity. Arm II: Patients receive paclitaxel IV over 3 hours followed by cisplatin IV over 30-120 minutes on day 1. Courses repeat every 3 weeks in the absence of disease progression or unacceptable toxicity. Treatment continues until 2 courses past complete response (minimum of 6 courses). Patients with stable disease may discontinue treatment after 6 courses. Patients are followed every 3 months until disease progression.