Acceleration
"Generally smooth and strong around town, but transmission's tardy downshifts make for lazy merging and passing response in a broad 40-60-mph range. Traction control is a snowy-climate essential."

Value
"Big-car traditionalists are well-served by Crown Victoria and Grand Marquis. But these cars are ancient in design terms, so they're far less nimble and efficient than the Chrysler 300, Dodge Charger, Toyota Avalon, and Ford's own Five Hundred and Mercury Montego--Best Buys all."

Ride
"Base suspension absorbent, fairly controlled, but soft enough to allow some float on undulations. Firmer Handling and Performance setup can be jittery over sharp, closely spaced bumps, but quells most float and exacts no big penalty in overall comfort."

Economy
Test 239-hp LX averaged 22.4 mpg in mostly highway driving; an LX Sport averaged 16.3 in a city/highway mix. Base 224-hp V8 isn't significantly thriftier. Crown Vics and Grand Marquis use regular-grade fuel.

Noise
"Road and mechanical noise are well-isolated. Wind rush, too, though one test Crown Vic suffered intermittent side-window whistle. Unable yet to test with optional laminated side glass."

Comfort - Front
"Good-old big-car feel, with adult-size room and easy access. However, seats in all models are virtually flat, providing poor lateral support in turns."

Comfort - Rear
"Bench seat too soft for long-distance comfort. Great space, though center driveshaft tunnel intrudes on foot room."

Controls
"Climate and audio systems set fairly far from driver; available steering-wheel controls help. LX Sport has extra gauges, sporty floorshifter console. A plethora of hard plastic surfaces gives a budget-grade cabin ambience, even with leather upholstery."

Cargo Room
"Trunk holds lots of stuff, but space concentrates in a deep center well, so removing heavy objects is a strain and some bulky items are a tough fit. Optional trunk storage unit drops into well, provides useful covered bins. Spare tire stows far ahead above rear axle."