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:
Showing 1 through 10 of 658.00-
Mercury Ultimate- Better than Lincoln - 2004 Mercury Grand Marquis
By CharlieT - December 29 - 2:00 amThe Ultimate edition has same features as Lincoln - Air ride,& more features than Lincoln, such as Digital Dashboard, full size spare tire, etc. I have driven new Lincolnsevery two years from 1984 through 1998. In 2000 I bought a Ford Expedition. I was looking to trade in my 1998 Lincoln for a 2004 Lincoln. The Dealers in my area would not give me the NADA or Kelly Blue Book Wholesale or trade in price. Instead they quoted the Gail Auction prices.
-
Merc Marc - 1998 Mercury Grand Marquis
By Elnino - December 18 - 10:00 amHeadlamp lens were coroded inside lens,both front lamps. Dealer replaced, N/C. aLSO left rear door window was faulty, would go down using drivers door wdw.operation,but would not go back up. Dealer replaced door switch.N/C. Vehicle does not drive as smooth as I thought it should. Although I had a complete inspection of car by an independent mechanic, checked out 100% satisfactory. In town mileage 18.6 mpg.
-
My 03 GM LS Ultimate - 2003 Mercury Grand Marquis
By DRC - December 18 - 10:00 amA great car that I do recommend! Its a joy to own. The only (2) problems encountered were: a wiring harness replacement that took the Dealer three... weeks to fix, and seperate problem(s) with a FORD after market "remote starter" unit. Needed (4) snows, as I reside in the snow belt.
-
Not Bad For a Boat - 1999 Mercury Grand Marquis
By Gary Ciborowski - December 16 - 1:50 amBest highway cruiser Ive owned since my 74 Impala. Extremely quiet, ample power and at 22 mpg, you cant complain. Strong signs of ancient automotive technology like analog gauges, but the car seems rock solid. Would seriously entertain buying a sportier model than the GS when this one is used up.
-
Get it while you can - 2009 Mercury Grand Marquis
By billccm - November 30 - 3:16 pmNine years ago I went from a bullet proof Crown Vic into a Chevy Impala, which was a mistake. My Impala nearly fell apart at 90K miles, so it was a no brainer to return to the panther platform Ford. I have to admit that the convenience features of the Impala are missed such as console storage, homelink, and very functional cup holders, but the ride, and spacious interior make up for it in the Grand Marquis. I have to admit that I had forgotton about the old man jokes that come with this car (I am 40 years old).
-
Built Tough - 2001 Mercury Grand Marquis
By JKWHITE1971 - November 28 - 10:00 amThis is one solid car, its safe, has plenty of room and power and it will pass about any car on the highway. The Grand Marquis is so reliable that my 88 went 350k and was still running strong when I traded it into the dealership. This is basically a muscle car in the body of a full sized sedan.
-
Ill buy another one. - 2000 Mercury Grand Marquis
By KXBill - November 22 - 4:03 pmTrouble free vehicle. Quite, simi-firm ride. Room for six big adults in back and two in front. Small person can fit in the front middle with ease. Love the large trunk. If I hold the spped around 60, I have made 28 mpg.
-
Quality in a American make Vehicle - 2003 Mercury Grand Marquis
By DanDudley Jr. - November 22 - 2:00 amThis is a solid,reliable car, a best buy by anyones standard.
-
2004 Grand Marque GS Convience Owner - 2004 Mercury Grand Marquis
By Frank J Marchetti - November 22 - 2:00 amThis Automobile Has a Very hard ride, you feel every bump in the road, (small or large). It being a large 4 door sedan the ride is a big disapointment. I will not own it very long. Before you buy one give it a good test drive!!!!!!!!!!
-
super - 2004 Mercury Grand Marquis
By the mouse - November 16 - 2:00 amThis is a super car. lots of room. the only problem with these cars is wind noise from the windows.we enjoy this car for long distance and plenty of room in the inside and the trunk. this is our 4th one. we like the new car smell. This is an easy car to trade up for a new one and eldorado is a super place to trade.
