2001 Lincoln Town Car: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The only surviving American-brand, rear-drive, full-size luxury sedan comes in regular- and extended-length "L" form. The latter has a 6-inch longer wheelbase and an additional 6 inches of rear leg room and is available only in top-line Cartier trim. Town Car's 4.6-liter V8 makes 225 hp in Executive and Signature models, 240 in the Cartier. The Touring Sedan package for Signatures includes the 240-hp engine and firmer suspension. Standard on all are a 4-speed automatic transmission, ABS, 4-wheel disc brakes, traction control, leather upholstery, front bench seat, and power adjustable pedals.

COMPETITION

This diverse segment offers the widest price range. It covers everything from the $34,000 Saab 9-5 to the $130,000 Mercedes-Benz SL500. Obviously our Best Buys are somewhere in between. We think that the Acura RL is a steal at $42,000 fully equipped. Though it is a front-drive V6 in a field of V8 rear-drive models, it has a great ride, plenty of power, and is quite luxurious. Mercedes-Benz E-Class, though a bit long in the tooth, also continues to impress with its impeccable road manners and luxurious comfort.

If you are looking for something a bit more sporting we recommend the BMW 5-Series. If your taste ranges more toward the luxury end, then take a look at the Cadillac DeVille or Lexus GS 300.