5 Star Reviews for Ford Crown Victoria

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.52/5 Average
334 Total Reviews
Model Overview:

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 131 through 140 of 334.00
  • Love the Crown Vic - 2000 Ford Crown Victoria
    By -

    I owned a 1998 before this 2000 and I love these cars. Both vehicle have been LXs with handling and suspension package. To me they are the best full sized cars on the market. Not to mention they are rear wheel drive.

  • best car i,ve ever owend - 2003 Ford Crown Victoria
    By -

    i bought my crown vic 2yrs ago ai ilove it it,s th best car i ever bought it had only 47579 on it when i got it it rides an handle very good its iceblue mat; i get 20 mpg around townit get up an go when i want it to go ihave it service every 3000 or les thanks ford for builtin a great car

  • Ford Fantastic - 2006 Ford Crown Victoria
    By -

    The Ford Crown Victoria is an excellent,dependable family sedan which surprisingly is also fun to drive. I purchased one with the sport suspension which gives the large,comfortable sedan great stability on the road, especially while negotiating tight corners. ABS and traction control add peace of mind on slick pavement. This is my four Crown Vic since the current platform debuted in 1991.

  • 99 Crown Vic Interceptor - 1999 Ford Crown Victoria
    By -

    I have always owned Crown Vics, and that will never change. This Crown has 292000 miles on it, and still runs like its brand new. Never had to anything to it, and still doesnt need anything. I wouldnt have an LX, but the Interceptors have it all.

  • Fourht One of these in a decade! - 2003 Ford Crown Victoria
    By -

    This is 4th CV I have purchased new in a decade. All of them have been EXTREMELY reliable and trouble free. Gas mileage is very good - comparable to smaller cars with six cylinder power. ONLY complaint ... needs to have a bit more power - ALL CVs need the extra power from dual exhaust. Best value in a car today, considering cost, maintenance, upkeep.

  • Absolutely love my Crown Victoria!! - 2005 Ford Crown Victoria
    By -

    I bought this car about a year ago from a family friend. It only had 18000 miles on it. She wanted a new crown victoria, she wanted a different color LOL. She gave me a great deal on the car. I love everything about this car, the exterior looks very nice, just enough chrome. Also love the keyless entry pad, dont ever have to worry about locking my keys in the car. This car is so comfortable, and has alot of power. I find myself speeding all the time. The quality and reliability is awesome also. Havent had any problems. My sister has a 01 crown vic, hers had 130000 miles. She hasnt had any problems either. I am sad they are discontinuing these cars

  • Im On My Third - 2007 Ford Crown Victoria
    By -

    This is the third Crown Vic I have owned. I ran the first to 141K and the second to 176K. I have put 14K on this one to date. While the ride on this one is a bit stiff, it is compensated by excellent handling. My wife just says, "Its fun to drive." On a recent road trip of over 850 miles, I held my speed down to 65 and got 30.6 MPG overall, without air. Now, tell me what other vehile gets that fuel efficiency in the comfort provided by the CV? I understand that Ford is discontinuing the CV for consumer use, so I will probably have to go to the Grand Marquis in 8-10 years when this one needs replacement.

  • one fun squad car - 1997 Ford Crown Victoria
    By -

    I bought th car with 292,000 miles on it from a sheriffs office Im northern Minnesota and shes a lot of fun. Ive got 300,000 on it now and she still moves like a brand new squad car. Im very happy with it and now my girlfriend wants one too since she drove it and saw how much people slow down and get scared when you speed up on there back bumper. Parts are cheap but Ive done more upgrades than repairs. The neat thing is that the cops think im a cop and they dont pull me over for speeding. I passed a mhp trooper at 70 in a 55 and all he did was wave as we crossed paths. Im keepin my squad. No its not for sale and no you cant use it. Im having way too much fun. I will buy more of them soon.

  • Great Fun Car - 2004 Ford Crown Victoria
    By -

    This is a great fun car a lot of go with a good gas rating get the big motor handling package and go big time.

  • Ford Crown Vic is best - 2005 Ford Crown Victoria
    By -

    I love the Ford Crown Victoria. It is roomy and rides smoothly. My car gets 25.5 mpg on highway. It has great power and is easy to drive. It is red and has a great paint finish. This sedan gives you more for your money than any other car on the road. It is safe and has plenty of room to put suitcases etc. The best car Ive driven in 35 years.

Ford Crown Victoria Reviews By Year:
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