Overview & Reviews

For years, the Mercury Grand Marquis stood as an example of "If it ain't broke, don't fix it." The big Mercury, a slightly fancier twin of the Ford Crown Victoria, exhibited old-school automotive design with its stout but heavy body-on-frame construction, solid rear axle and softly tuned suspension calibrations. Its more modern American and Japanese peers, by comparison, featured lighter unibody architecture and fully independent suspensions.

The ride and handling performance suffered somewhat as a result, as the Grand Marquis just wasn't nearly as athletic as more modern rivals. But folks prized this Mercury for its roomy cabin, plush, quiet ride and bulletproof construction, not its ability to tear through a winding road at breakneck speed. It's no wonder that for decades its plainer Ford relative was the favorite of cab companies, police departments and fleet operators everywhere.

For the full-size sedan shopper who just wants a big, comfortable V8-equipped sedan and nothing more, a used Mercury Grand Marquis offers compelling value. Just keep in mind that it's affordable for a reason. Premium features like navigation, high-powered audio and Bluetooth are nowhere to be found, and competing large sedans are much more modern in their mechanical makeup and overall design.

Most Recent Mercury Grand Marquis
The most recent Mercury Grand Marquis generation began in 1998. Concurrent with the brand's demise, production ended after 2011. This full-size six-passenger sedan was generally available in two trim levels -- GS and LS. Going with an LS will typically get you more features.

Despite its 2-ton curb weight, the Grand Marquis was reasonably quick off the line thanks to a 4.6-liter V8 engine. Output varied somewhat during the car's run; models from 2003 and later typically had 224 horsepower and 272 pound-feet of torque. A four-speed automatic was the only transmission available. Marquis models fitted with the optional Handling package (it was discontinued after 2007) received a power increase to 235 hp.

The Marquis received a variety of updates throughout the years. The biggest changes took place for '03, when the Grand Marquis received an all-new chassis with a redesigned front suspension and rack-and-pinion steering, all of which improved crash performance and handling. Antilock brakes were made standard that year, and front side airbags became available. Stability control was never offered, however. In general, we recommend shopping for one of these 2003-and-newer models.

For 2003 and '04, Mercury also offered the performance-minded Marauder, a name that harkened back to the 1960s. This blacked-out Grand Marquis featured a firmer suspension, big wheels, bucket seats and a four-cam, 302-hp V8.

On the road, the Mercury Grand Marquis delivered a soft, forgiving ride, but as expected, the handling was mushy. Ultimately, there was just no getting around this big sedan's decades-old design, substantial weight and large dimensions. Inside, the dated design and spotty materials quality were immediately apparent. The vehicle's chief strengths were its solid value for the money and the roomy, comfortable accommodations for five or six. A huge 21-cubic-foot trunk that could easily swallow a week's worth of luggage for a small family was another perk.

Past Mercury Grand Marquis Models
As for older Grand Marquis that followed the end of the previous model's long (1979-'91) run, the '92 Mercury Grand Marquis debuted with a restyled body and a new-generation, overhead-cam 4.6-liter V8 rated at 190 or 210 hp (with dual exhaust). We found that engine much smoother and more powerful than the ancient overhead-valve V8s it replaced. Minor improvements carried through to 1995, when a subtle face-lift yielded a new grille, lights, bumpers, trunk lid and dash. Not much changed after that until the next big update three years later.

User Reviews:

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  More than I expected - 2007 Mercury Grand Marquis
  By Ken - February 9 - 12:06 pm

  On some trips, I and my passengers have all raved about the comfort. The lumbar cushion in the front seats have given wonderful support. I have the optional handling package which gives and extremely stable and smooth ride. I also ordered the laminated security side glass which not only offers protection, but also adds sound insulation from road noise. Its nice and quiet. The optional Audiophile Sound System is one of the best sounding radios Ive ever heard. I love being able to adjust the sound and temperature using the controls on the wood and leather steering wheel. This is a wonderful car.

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  The Last of the Tanks - 1998 Mercury Grand Marquis
  By Jazzer77 - February 5 - 10:00 am

  This is not your "Grandfathers" Mercury anymore. Rear Wheel drive, V-8 power, this is the last true "American Car." From the ride to the engine, I love everything about my car. It has the comfort of driving a sofa, and I can keep up to a Mustang with ease. You want a great value? This car is for you.

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  Love "Da" Power - 1998 Mercury Grand Marquis
  By Power Punch - January 27 - 1:43 am

  I"ve had my Marquis for a month now. I travel everyday from Miami to Ft. Lauderdale up I 95, I dont suffer from back aches anymore. I use to drive a Kia Sportage. Thought I was saving Gas money, with the G-Marquis I have not notice any difference in spending.I consume the same 1/2 of 1/4 tank, same as with the Kia. Love the power and sense of safety. What a car, if I change it, it will be for a recent model. No more tojos for me American all the way.

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  Quality - 2001 Mercury Grand Marquis
  By Mike - January 23 - 6:50 pm

  For road, long distance driving this cannot be beat. Comfortable, low noise, 22-24 mpg road. Good trunk space

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  Tried and True... Still The Best! - 2005 Mercury Grand Marquis
  By Joel Nazaretian - January 15 - 5:00 am

  I am only 35 years old, and grew up in a household that always had a Lincoln. My father was a Master Mechanic who always stated Fords were build the best, so I may be a bit biased. However, I buy a vehicle based on styling and ride quality. Years of reading all the reports that state front wheel drive and imports are best, I still prefer a domestic, body on frame, rear wheel drive configuration over anything. The ride is SUPERIOR, and CANNOT be duplicated in a unitized body, front wheel drive car, PERIOD! So everyone can laugh all they want at my Grandpa Car, or Police Car, including the yuppies passing me in their Bimmers who think they drive a far superior and advanced car.

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  Mercury Grand Marquis - 2003 Mercury Grand Marquis
  By Barbara Cook - January 13 - 10:00 am

  I really like the feel of the steering in the new Mercury. Much quicker. Also like the adjustable pedals since I am very short.Very pleased overall.

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  best car i ever owned - 1999 Mercury Grand Marquis
  By mkrawczyk - January 6 - 9:34 pm

  bought this car with 70,000 miles it now has 109,000 this is the best car i have ever owned have not had one problem with this car 18mpg city and 24 hwy it is like setting in a lazy boy driving this car.use no oil between changes i will buy another one when this stops running.

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  The way it should be - 2008 Mercury Grand Marquis
  By Tip of Texas - January 5 - 10:50 pm

  Before I bought my MGM, I test drove the baseline models of Lexus, Infinity, Cadillac, Jaguar and tried to test drive the Mercedes C300. They all felt the same and very much looked the same. Have to look close before I can tell them appart. Because of my job, I drive into Mexico every day; I need comfortable; feeling the road is not really desirable and with all these cars you actually feel the road. Went to the Opera recently and the wows my MGM got were not been given to the CTS and the Mercedes. In my opinion there is nothing wrong with old as long as it works well and looks great. What happened to distinctive US designs? Why do critics push for oriental clones?

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  Comfort & visibility - 2009 Mercury Grand Marquis
  By Darrell - January 2 - 11:53 pm

  Ive owned fast cars, sporty cars, vans & crossovers. Im impressed with the comfort and visibility of this automobile. I have no need for fast acceleration off the starting line, the fuel economy is ok, and I dont have to lean over to see out of the car. For trips longer than to town, it is great. Styling may be old to some, but styling isnt my thing.

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  Honest real world opinion - 2003 Mercury Grand Marquis
  By Thom - December 27 - 8:03 pm

  My driving and ownership experience. Hmm. Well all said and done, second too none. The MGM is by far the best car I have ever owned, inside and out. Ive given this car the highest ratings all around including fuel economy. I find though my research most larger cars as well as mini-vans or other family sized vehicles average around 20-25 mpg. I average about 25 mpg (26.7) to be precise with my Grand Marquis. Now factor the size and weight and power of the car and compare that on a scale to ANY small car or large car. You will find the MGM is the green or most fuel efficient car on the road. Outside of fuel economy, I rate the reliability five stars. MGM has a proven record and still holds it.