Overview & Reviews
Large V8-powered sedans made a comeback in the 21st century, but the Ford Crown Victoria was one of the very few full-size, rear-drive sedans that never left. The "Crown Vic" moniker goes back several decades to when Ford adopted the name for a high-line trim level on the full-size LTD sedan, as baby boomers and their elders no doubt recall. The LTD name was dropped in 1992.
The Crown Vic's model run continued uninterrupted until 2007, the last year it was available for consumer purchase. However, it is still produced for fleet use by law enforcement and other agencies.
Unlike its more modern competition, the throwback Ford Crown Victoria uses stout but heavy body-on-frame construction and a solid rear axle. The ride and handling envelope suffered somewhat as a result, but it is a durable and cost-effective approach -- which, no doubt, is why it's so popular with cab companies, police departments and fleet operators.
For the car's most recent redesign in 2003, Ford fitted it with an all-new frame, a redesigned front suspension and rack-and-pinion steering, all of which improved the big Vic's crash performance and handling dynamics. But, equipped like a Police Interceptor or not, it still couldn't match the agility and overall refinement of its American and Japanese peers, which feature modern unibody designs with fully independent suspensions.
Most Recent Ford Crown Victoria
Last produced for civilian use for the 2007 model year, the Ford Crown Victoria was a full-size, six-passenger sedan available in base and LX trim levels. The LX model had a few extra upscale features and also allowed access to a couple optional packages such as the premium handling and performance package (previously known as the LX Sport trim level).
Despite its 2-ton curb weight, the Crown Victoria was reasonably quick thanks to a 4.6-liter V8 engine with 224 horsepower and 272 pound-feet of torque; LX models equipped with the upgraded performance package were a bit swifter, with 239 horses and 287 lb-ft of torque. A four-speed automatic was the only transmission available, although Crown Vics equipped with the sport package also had an upgraded torque converter and shorter rear-axle gearing that made for quicker initial acceleration off the line.
Inside, the dated design and budget materials quality were immediately apparent. The vehicle's strengths were reflected in its solid value for the money and the roomy, comfortable accommodations for five or six. This included a huge 21-cubic-foot trunk that could easily swallow a week's worth of luggage for four adults or a family.
In reviews, we found that the Ford Crown Victoria delivered a forgiving ride quality. Handling was acceptable but sloppy, and there was just no getting around this big sedan's decades-old design, substantial weight and large dimensions. If you're looking for nothing more than a simple family cruiser or roomy commuter, a used, well-kept Crown Vic will perform admirably. But if you want a full-size V8 sedan that also feels nimble and refined, we believe you'll be happier with this Ford's more modern competition, such as a Chrysler 300.
Past Ford Crown Victoria Models
Though it's received a variety of updates in the past 15 years, the most recent Crown Victoria is still basically the same car as it was back in 1992, the time of the last major redesign.
The most recent body style dates back to 1998, though in 2003 it received an all-new chassis under that now-familiar body shell. The suspension design was largely the same, but it featured many updates and incorporated more responsive rack-and-pinion steering for the first time. Antilock brakes were made standard that year, and front side airbags were available on both the LX and LX Sport.
The Crown Victoria was dramatically restyled for 1998 by adopting the formal roof line previously used exclusively on its Mercury Grand Marquis twin. Powertrains were revised to deliver more power, and the rear suspension was tweaked to improve handling. There were only detail changes until 2001 when adjustable pedals were first offered, and the engine was tweaked yet again to boost output to 220 hp on the base and LX models and a dual-exhaust-enabled 235 hp on the LX Sport.
Following the end of the previous model's long run, the '92 Ford Crown Victoria debuted with a restyled body and a new-generation, overhead-cam 4.6-liter V8 rated at 190 or 210 hp that we found much smoother and more powerful than the ancient overhead-valve V8s it replaced. Minor improvements carried through to 1995, when a new grille, lighting, bumpers, trunk lid and modified dash arrived. After that, not much changed until the next big update three years later.
User Reviews:
Showing 51 through 60 of 334.00-
Crown Victoria excellence - 2004 Ford Crown Victoria
By F.Eckart - June 11 - 10:00 amThe crown vic is the best car on the road for the money. this is our second car and very likely we will acquire a third crown vic when the time for change arrives. Keep updating technology on the car. Make in better dont get rid of the model.
-
My Crown Vic - 2003 Ford Crown Victoria
By Paul C. Pistone - June 11 - 10:00 amPurchased my Crown Victoria after having a Buick Le Sabre. I wanted the additional room and safety that the Crown Victoria offers. A great feeling having that much space around you, makes driving a pleasure. Great for long or short trips, excellent manueverability and handling for its size. Offers a very controlled yet smooth, almost luxury ride.
-
SOLID SEDAN - 2003 Ford Crown Victoria
By Crowned Vic - June 2 - 2:00 amFortunately, there is still a nice driving rear wheel drive sedan. The Crown Vic has plenty of power for the highway, and is comfortable on long hauls. The only thing wrong with the car is the dealer that I purchased the car from. If youre ever in Southern California, avoid San Juan Capistrano Ford. There are plenty of other Ford dealers.
-
Its all good - 2006 Ford Crown Victoria
By Wiley - April 17 - 6:20 pmThis car, while not as heavy as a Cad I used to drive, is very comfortable and has excellent vision characteristics, instrutment cluster, steering wheel control of radio and speed control (have added in an iPod which is also controlled by the steering wheel. Have added on a device, which I had to order from England that allows attachment of GPS and/or iPod to a plate that fits onto the dash and beauty strip on the lower dash.. some road noise on concrete use Quite Coast spay in trunk and door panels now very quite, seats good for me 63" and very good on long drives driving or riding a co- pilot very good buy on an excellent used vehicle added on extended warranty and Im good to go & fast
-
Crown Vic LX Sport - a great car - 2003 Ford Crown Victoria
By EddieJay - April 9 - 10:00 amThis car is a great vehicle to own. Potential buyers should be a aware that youre looking at a car that has the same chasis, engine, and trans as a Town Car and its about $14K less. It performs exceptionally well and its overall comfort is exceptional. There has been some criticism of the fuel economy. 20-22 MPG is very acceptable with a V-8 that performs so well
-
Crown Vic - 2005 Ford Crown Victoria
By marjorie holder - March 30 - 2:13 amWe have driven this vehicle and had only one problem on the road. It was taken care of by the tow truck driver. It involved the starter and once it was started we simply did not turn it off until we got back to our dealer and it was fixed under warranty. We chose it for its comfort and handling. We consider it next to the Town Car.
-
Crown Victoria reigns supreme - 2005 Ford Crown Victoria
By Broosterb1 - March 8 - 2:13 pmGreat car! Excellent over the road, high speed comfort. Mine is tricked out, 6 CD, high quality Bose sound, leather, eletronic dash, easy to use auto air and heat, power seats, lumbar, traction control, 4 wheel abs. My last Crown Vic went 167,000 miles. One before that was killed by a drunk driver doing 65, I walked away with out a scratch! Very reliable. Best auto buy on the market. Even better if bought at one year as a low mileage program car.
-
Love this car - 2004 Ford Crown Victoria
By KillyBight - March 7 - 6:56 pmLX Sport. Very comfortable ride. Great power. Like the center console shift. nice for downshift braking on hills. Great passing power even with 4 adults
-
Unbeatable - 2008 Ford Crown Victoria
By eflatblues - February 15 - 8:20 pmThis is hands down the most dependable, well made,and has the most value of any vehicle I have ever owed. I purchased from a local dealer for 14,400, (original sticker in glove box @ 30k). There is absolutely nothing available tht offers what this car does for that kind of money. Unfortunately, I was hit by a drunk driver going about 15- 20mph while I was stopped at a corner. The drivers door took all of the impact from his 1989 Buick Park Ave. I was not injured and 3 weeks, a new door and paint later the car was back to me in perfect shape. Quiet, comfortable, fuel efficient, (20mpg mixed cylce) and unbelieveable safe. Why Ford quit making these is beyond me. Great Car!
-
2005 Crown Victoria Police Interceptor - 2005 Ford Crown Victoria
By YK23 - February 13 - 10:00 amI bought my car used. I have only driven it for 5 minutes and was ready to buy the car. Has plenty of room and comfort + the launch is amazing for such a big car. Recently did a road trip (1200 km) and averaged about 10 L/ 100 km (about 30 mpg). My car has a lot of mileage (232 000 km) and still runs very strong. I recommend this car to anyone. Im 22 and I love the way it handles on the highway + people never get on your way at nights :)
