Ford Crown Victoria

The Crown Victoria/Mercury Grand Marquis twins are among the last big rear-drive sedans with a full frame and a V8 engine, and are dated despite recent modifications. Both have stiff rides and their engines are noisy. Handling is safe enough, but feels ungainly. Traction control (optional on the Ford, standard on the Mercury) helps in slippery conditions. The soft front bench seat lacks support, and the rear seat isn't very roomy, though the trunk is suitably cavernous. The Ford Five Hundred and Mercury Montego twins are roomier and have better ride and handling than the Crown Victoria. IIHS side-crash-test results were Poor when tested without the optional side air bags.