By Steven D. Gatt, Automotive Editor
Looking for a full-size, domestic, rear-drive sedan? Only the Ford Crown Victoria fits the bill; along with the sister car Mercury Grand Marquee. Automakers are scampering away from this market, mainly to transfer capacity to the lucrative and high volume truck and sport utility markets. Chevy, about two years ago, killed the Caprice for that very reason.
Buyers of the Crown Vic are looking for a big comfortable car and if you buy one that's exactly what you're going to get. A big comfortable car; easily suitable for 5 full-size adults. The front seat is a split bench design with 6-way power controls for both driver and passenger and a fold down armrests. All of the seats are covered in leather, so is the extra-thick steering wheel. Other features include power mirrors, locks and windows, keyless entry and a 4-speed automatic transmission.
The cruise control, located on the steering wheel, was convenient and easy to use. The evaluated Crown Vic also included a digital dash with a multi-function computer. The computer tracked: trip distance, fuel range and fuel economy. The gauges were huge making them easy to read and very bright at night. The radio and HVAC controls were mounted near the center of the dash. Radio controls were high and far away from the driver; HVAC controls were lower where both the front passengers and driver could adjust them.
The Crown Vic is a safe car, one reason is simply its substantial size. Other actual safety features include anti-lock brakes, traction control, height adjustable seat belts and the rear middle passenger now gets shoulder belt. The Crown Vic weights 3,998 lbs: this bulk cuts into fuel mileage. The EPA and Ford rate it at 16 mpg city and 21 mpg highway. During the nearly 500 miles I drove the car, I averaged 18 mpg.
Even with the handling and performance package, it still had a soft ride that was very comfortable. The wheel and tire package also did a lot for the looks of the car with the lower profile tires and attractive rims. Steering was a bit loose and vague, something that one would have to get used too.
The base price is $23,195. With option packages, destination and discounts, the total price as tested came to $26,745. A full-size car that can carry five adults and their stuff comfortably, plus leather seating for less than $30,000 is a bargain.