OBJECTIVES: I. Determine the maximum tolerated dose, toxicity, and pharmacokinetic profile of docetaxel in combination with estramustine in patients with metastatic adenocarcinoma of the prostate. II. Determine the safe dose level of this regimen for Phase II evaluation. III. Determine the efficacy of this regimen with evaluation of objective response rate, duration of response, and time to disease progression in these patients. IV. Determine the duration of survival of these patients on this regimen. V. Evaluate the symptomatic and quality of life effects in these patients.