Ford Crown Victoria Story
Ford's Crown Victoria, introduced as a new trim level for 1980 Ford LTD models, became its own model line in 1983. It was totally redesigned for 1992 then substantially updated with a new frame, suspension and steering for 2003. For 2007, this proven veteran is further upgraded with additional standard equipment (AM/FM/CD audio system and remote keyless entry with Ford's anti-theft SmartLock feature) for the Standard model and a new Premium Sport Handling and Performance Package available for the up-level LX.
Sport Package
Included with this are a rear stabilizer bar, rear air suspension, lower-restriction stainless steel dual exhausts, 3.27:1 axle ratio, stiffer springs and highly tunable monotube shocks all around, a body colored grille and a handsome set of 17- inch 5-spoke aluminum wheels. Inside are a leather covered floor shifter, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and a set of sport bucket seats with adjustable lumbar support.
The result is a conservative-looking, large American rear-drive sedan that actually performs and handles pretty well without losing its family sedan practicality, interior quietness or comfortable ride. The steering is responsive, and the brakes haul the big sedan down from speed with confident authority. Those freer-flowing exhausts enable noticeable improvements in off-the-line torque and passing power by boosting the 4.6-liter SOHC V-8 from its usual 224 hp and 275 lb.-ft. of torque to a more energetic 239 horses and 287 lb.-ft. That's a significant increase in both departments, with both enhanced ratings coming at slightly higher rpm. As in the Standard car, this tried and true V-8 features smooth electronic throttle control and drives through a four-speed electronic-controlled automatic transmission.
Design and Features
The Crown Vic's interior is nicely executed with tight and even gaps and quality-look materials. It offers wide door openings, a cavernous 106.4 cu. ft. of total passenger space and large glass areas for good visibility. It's also comfortably quiet, even at freeway speeds, thanks to its isolated body-on-frame architecture and careful attention to detail by Ford Engineering's meticulous noise police.
Wraparound aerodynamic headlamps set off the subtle but handsome face, a huge 20.6 cu. ft. trunk brings up the rear, and color-keyed moldings protect the sides from shopping carts and door dings in between. Most importantly, the Crown Vic earns five-star frontal crash ratings, the highest achievable, for driver and front passenger due to its hefty frame, a large front crumple zone and Ford's comprehensive Personal Safety System. Seat-mounted front side airbags are an available option for added protection in the event of a side impact.
Also available is laminated front side glass, which brings a well worthwhile set of advantages. Besides filtering out most of the sun's ultraviolet rays, which reduces interior heat buildup and fading, these include reduced road and wind noise, extra protection from smash-and-grab break-ins and thefts and improved protection from flying glass in a collision.
In addition to the new-for-2007 up-level sound system and remote keyless entry, the Crown Vic's standard equipment list features four-wheel-disc brakes with ABS, air conditioning, 8-way power driver's seat, cruise control, tilt steering wheel and power windows, door locks and mirrors. The LX model adds 16-inch nine-spoke alloy wheels, automatic climate control, rear seat reading lamps, a trip computer and an overhead console with a compass. Additional options include traction control with electronic brake force distribution, power moonroof, 6-disc CD changer, leather-trimmed seats, power adjustable pedals, heated side mirrors, a full-size spare tire, a trunk organizer and a perimeter alarm.
If you are one of those who never moved away from a traditional big American sedan, this one should be high on your shopping list. |
