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:

• 

  Great Car. - 2007 Ford Crown Victoria
  By Pat - February 26 - 8:26 pm

  I started out with a ’95 Crown Vic, which I bought used. In the 8 or 9 years that I owned it, I never had a break-down or any problems mechanically or otherwise. I also average about 5mpg better than the EPA rating. However I had the opportunity to drive a new one, while my car was getting some bodywork done. And well, old reliable is getting an upgrade. These cars are comfortable, have plenty of power, and corners like theyre on rails. There is definitely a reason why all of the police departments depend on them. I could easily drive this for another 10 or more years, but some of the new features, like an available moon roof, and the front bucket seats, have me thinking about upgrading.

• 

  Quality &Comfort Without the Hype - 2004 Ford Crown Victoria
  By HAS - January 29 - 2:00 am

  The C. V. is used for taxis and law enforcement because of their durability, safety and performance. My last car a Mercedes E class is also used as a taxi in Europe. Great V8 power, style, safety and comfort. Simply a good car for a very good price. A V8 Bmw or Mercedes will run you $20-40K more. As for the SUV craze I dont get why people give up highway performace for off road capabilty they will never use.

• 

  Bobemakk Review - 1999 Ford Crown Victoria
  By Bobemakk - January 27 - 10:00 am

  It is one of the very best vehicles I have ever owned. A few minor problems like squeaky brakes and now a squeak in the front end are the only problems I have encountered. Plenty of power, extra comfortable ride and awesome design on one of the safest American cars built.

• 

  2000 HPP - 2000 Ford Crown Victoria
  By BigJon - January 22 - 2:00 am

  I just bought this car about a month ago and I absolutely love it. This is my 3rd Crown Victoria(88, 94, and now a 00). This is definitely the best one yet. If you plan on getting a Crown Vic, definitely spend the money and get a HPP or an LX Sport. The extra horsepower and ride feal is worth it!

• 

  Love the size! - 2004 Ford Crown Victoria
  By skirrits - January 22 - 2:00 am

  Since purchasing my first new car in 1968 (a Ford), Ive also driven Mercurys, Lincolns and Cadillacs. The wife currently drives a 99 Town Car and I traded my 96 Cadillac for this Crown Vic! I like the rear-wheel drive and the handling & power that comes with the Crown Vic.

• 

  bought it used but love it - 2000 Ford Crown Victoria
  By andy fan - January 17 - 10:00 am

  I cant understand the under rating some people give this cruiser on gas milage. I recently went into the mountains by way of MT Airey NC {Andys hometown} across US58 in Va. to South Boston Va.,and averaged 28 MPG.,with the air on.How could anyone expect more with such a large and comfortable car? As for me, Im very pleased and reccomend this vehicle to anyone considering a Crown Vic!!!

• 

  Former law enforcement vehicle - 1999 Ford Crown Victoria
  By oldschool360 - January 16 - 7:50 am

  I bought a 99 with only 86k miles. Its white and looks like a lot of highway patrol cars. It drives like a sporty tank and I still managed over 18 mpg on 90 mph road trip. I really like this car and think it will be a good starter car for my two sons in a few years. Definitely a great value. With needed repairs, I only have $3400 in it and can expect to drive it for quite some time. Good bye car payments.

• 

  The Only Car - 2004 Ford Crown Victoria
  By BCH - January 2 - 11:16 pm

  Being a 22 yr old college student, I needed a vehicle that was reliable, comfortable on those long trips to and from school, and had a low ownership cost (low cost to buy, maintain, and insure). I purchased the 04 Crown Vic off of an individual who had bought the car new. The CV is a bargain and does everything I expected and more. On long trips I can expect 30-32 mpg and around town low 20s. The fuel economy is on par with many 6 cylinder mid-sized sedans. So why not go for more room, more comfort, and 8 cylinder performance? And when some unsuspecting smart alec pops off about it being a "granny car" I simply unleash the Triton V-8 and that shuts them up. A great value and a great car!

• 

  best all around - 2003 Ford Crown Victoria
  By pete - December 2 - 8:46 am

  Ride and handling are excellent but not for long trips. Bucket seats should be standard on all models as well as a gps system for police models. Otherwise leave well enough alone and keep making a quality product. I love my "Vic."

• 

  Solid Car - 2005 Ford Crown Victoria
  By Rob54 - November 21 - 11:40 pm

  Well built; they improve it every year. The "old" platform makes it a great value and it makes for a quality car because Ford has all the "bugs" out of it. It does have one minor wind noise in the driver side window, however. If you arent a car snob, this is a car to look at, and you cant beat the price.