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2003 Ford Crown Victoria Full Review
Date Published: 2/20/08
Also in the 2003 Ford Crown Victoria Review:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Ford Crown Victoria Full Review
7.
8.
2003 Ford Crown Victoria Review
Revamped underpinnings and optional front side airbags highlighted the mid-2002 introduction of the 2003 Crown Victoria. Ford's rear-wheel-drive full-size sedan again shares its design with Mercury's Grand Marquis, which is similarly revised for '03--though Crown Vic has no counterpart to the new high-performance Mercury Marauder. These are among the few remaining body-on-frame automobiles, and the '03 versions have a redesigned frame and front suspension intended to improve ride and handling. Better handling also motivates the change from recirculating-ball steering to a speed-sensitive rack-and-pinion system. Dimensions are unaltered but styling gets minor tweaks, such as new headlamps. Crown Vic offers Standard, LX, and LX Sport models. Front side airbags are a first-time option available only on the LX and LX Sport. Standard and LX have a front bench seat; the LX Sport has buckets with a center console. Automatic transmission is standard. The sole engine is a 4.6-liter V8 with 224 hp in base form, 239 in the LX Sport or with the optional Handling and Performance Package. ABS is standard on all models for '03; traction control is optional. Also sharing this revamped design is the 2003 Lincoln Town Car.
Competition
Heading up the field as Best Buys are the Chrysler Concorde and Dodge Intrepid twins. They have real room for six, exceptional road manners, plenty of power, and hefty manufacturer discounts. Toyota's Avalon and Buick's LeSabre are our Recommended choices. Both have room for five and offer a comfortable ride (with modest handling capabilities). If you are looking for towing ability and don't want an SUV, Ford Crown Victoria, with its rear-drive layout and body-on-frame chassis, is an option. Ford has updated it nicely over the years and it comes at a reasonable price.
News
Crown Victoria sales fell 16.7 percent in the first nine months of 2002 vs the '01 period. Sister Mercury Grand Marquis was nearly twice as much. The problem is that Ford keeps updating these cars without changing their basic yesteryear character, which appeals to an older, steadily dwindling market.
Nevertheless, sources say Crown Vic and Grand Marquis will stay pretty much as is for the forseeable future. Revised styling is being whispered for 2006, but the basic platform, which dates from distant 1979, reportedly carries on. Earlier, Ford was said to be working on slightly smaller, lighter replacements derived from the near-luxury Lincoln LS, but that plan has evidently been scrapped as part of the company's current cost-saving program.
Nevertheless, sources say Crown Vic and Grand Marquis will stay pretty much as is for the forseeable future. Revised styling is being whispered for 2006, but the basic platform, which dates from distant 1979, reportedly carries on. Earlier, Ford was said to be working on slightly smaller, lighter replacements derived from the near-luxury Lincoln LS, but that plan has evidently been scrapped as part of the company's current cost-saving program.
2003 Ford Crown Victoria Road Test
| Pros | Cons |
| Passenger and cargo room | Fuel economy |
| Steering feel | |
Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings
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. Marauder's 302-hp V8 feels robust, especially in standing starts, and is less frustrating in midrange passing conditions. Traction control--optional on Ford, standard on Mercury--is a snowy-climate essential.
| LX w/Handling and Perf. Pkg. | Class Average |
| 5 | 5.5 |
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. Marauder's 302-hp V8 feels robust, especially in standing starts, and is less frustrating in midrange passing conditions. Traction control--optional on Ford, standard on Mercury--is a snowy-climate essential.
Fuel 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 V8 isn't significantly thriftier. Test Marauder averaged 17 mpg. Mercury recommends premium fuel for Marauder; Crown Vics and other Grand Marquis use regular.
| LX w/Handling and Perf. Pkg. | Class Average |
| 4 | 4.6 |
Test 239-hp LX averaged 22.4 mpg in mostly highway driving; an LX Sport averaged 16.3 in a city/highway mix. Base V8 isn't significantly thriftier. Test Marauder averaged 17 mpg. Mercury recommends premium fuel for Marauder; Crown Vics and other Grand Marquis use regular.
Ride Quality
Soft base suspension absorbent, fairly controlled, despite some float on pavement undulations. Firmer Performance and Handling setup can be jittery over sharp, closely spaced bumps, but quells some float and is no big penalty in overall comfort; Marauder feels much the same.
| LX w/Handling and Perf. Pkg. | Class Average |
| 7 | 6.8 |
Soft base suspension absorbent, fairly controlled, despite some float on pavement undulations. Firmer Performance and Handling setup can be jittery over sharp, closely spaced bumps, but quells some float and is no big penalty in overall comfort; Marauder feels much the same.
Steering/Handling/Braking
Steering vastly improved for '03: linear and accurate in turns, steady and slop-free in highway cruising. Still, Crown Vic and Grand Marquis handling characterized by marked body lean in fast changes of direction, mediocre tire grip. Marauder's larger tires hold the road well in turns, but can't erase negative effects of too much weight, too much body lean. Nose dives in quick stops, but brakes feel strong, pedal modulation good.
| LX w/Handling and Perf. Pkg. | Class Average |
| 6 | 5.5 |
Steering vastly improved for '03: linear and accurate in turns, steady and slop-free in highway cruising. Still, Crown Vic and Grand Marquis handling characterized by marked body lean in fast changes of direction, mediocre tire grip. Marauder's larger tires hold the road well in turns, but can't erase negative effects of too much weight, too much body lean. Nose dives in quick stops, but brakes feel strong, pedal modulation good.
Quietness
Good isolation from road, mechanical noise. Wind rush too, despite intermittent side-window whistle in one test Crown Vic. Marauder louder in most regards, with intentional muscle-car exhaust rumble, unintentional coarse-surface tire roar.
| LX w/Handling and Perf. Pkg. | Class Average |
| 7 | 6.3 |
Good isolation from road, mechanical noise. Wind rush too, despite intermittent side-window whistle in one test Crown Vic. Marauder louder in most regards, with intentional muscle-car exhaust rumble, unintentional coarse-surface tire roar.
Controls
Old school, even in dressed-up Marauder. Optional "large-type" digital instruments easy to read, but we prefer the standard analog gauges. Climate and audio systems set far from driver; upper-range models help with redundant steering-wheel controls. Marauder and LX Sport have extra gauges and floor-shift console, but same dashboard layout and stodgy steering wheel. Plethora of hard plastic surfaces lends cabin a budget-grade feel, even with leather upholstery. Pull-out dashboard cupholder a flimsy embarrassment, though cars with bucket seats replace it with two molded into console.
| LX w/Handling and Perf. Pkg. | Class Average |
| 4 | 5.6 |
Old school, even in dressed-up Marauder. Optional "large-type" digital instruments easy to read, but we prefer the standard analog gauges. Climate and audio systems set far from driver; upper-range models help with redundant steering-wheel controls. Marauder and LX Sport have extra gauges and floor-shift console, but same dashboard layout and stodgy steering wheel. Plethora of hard plastic surfaces lends cabin a budget-grade feel, even with leather upholstery. Pull-out dashboard cupholder a flimsy embarrassment, though cars with bucket seats replace it with two molded into console.
Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)
Good-old big-car feel, with adult-size room and easy access. However, seats in all models are virtually contour-free, so lateral support in turns is poor.
| LX w/Handling and Perf. Pkg. | Class Average |
| 7 | 6.9 |
Good-old big-car feel, with adult-size room and easy access. However, seats in all models are virtually contour-free, so lateral support in turns is poor.
Room/Comfort (rear)
Spacious, but too soft for long-distance comfort. Center driveshaft tunnel intrudes on foot room.
| LX w/Handling and Perf. Pkg. | Class Average |
| 6 | 5.9 |
Spacious, but too soft for long-distance comfort. Center driveshaft tunnel intrudes on foot room.
Cargo Room
Trunk holds lots of luggage, but space is concentrated in a deep center well, so some bulky items are a tough fit. Spare tire still above rear axle, but newly available trunk storage unit divides center well into more-useful covered bins.
| LX w/Handling and Perf. Pkg. | Class Average |
| 6 | 5.8 |
Trunk holds lots of luggage, but space is concentrated in a deep center well, so some bulky items are a tough fit. Spare tire still above rear axle, but newly available trunk storage unit divides center well into more-useful covered bins.
Value within Class
Suspension and steering changes for '03 improve confidence and control on the road, so rear-drive traditionalists are better-served than ever by Crown Victoria and Grand Marquis. But these sedans still don't feel or act as lively and efficient as more-modern designs such as the Dodge Intrepid and Chrysler Concorde. Marauder is a credible attempt at a muscle sedan, but doesn't go far enough in performance or interior excitement to be a compelling enthusiast value.
| LX w/Handling and Perf. Pkg. | Class Average |
| 5 | 6.9 |
Suspension and steering changes for '03 improve confidence and control on the road, so rear-drive traditionalists are better-served than ever by Crown Victoria and Grand Marquis. But these sedans still don't feel or act as lively and efficient as more-modern designs such as the Dodge Intrepid and Chrysler Concorde. Marauder is a credible attempt at a muscle sedan, but doesn't go far enough in performance or interior excitement to be a compelling enthusiast value.
Total Score
| LX w/Handling and Perf. Pkg. | Class Average |
| 57 | 59.8 |
Scores for all Large Cars
| Low Score | 54 | |
| Average Score | 59 | |
| High Score | 66 |
2003 Ford Crown Victoria Prices & Equipment
Model Prices
Prices Updated: 05/19/2003
| Trim Name | Retail Price | Dealer Invoice | Destination Charge |
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| Standard 4-door sedan | $23,705 | $22,218 | $725 |
|
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| LX 4-door sedan | $27,780 | $25,412 | $725 |
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| LX Sport 4-door sedan | $29,645 | $27,090 | $725 |
Price note: LX Sport requires leather upholstery.
Pricing Key: Retail prices listed with each report are set by the vehicle's
manufacturer. These figures appear on each car's federally mandated window sticker.
Most price lists also include dealer-invoice prices. Dealer-invoice prices are
what the dealer pays the manufacturer for the car and its factory-installed options.
The destination charge is not included in the suggested-retail or dealer-invoice price
and must be added to the cost of the vehicle. Car companies change prices frequently
throughout the year. If the prices published do not match those on the vehicle's
window sticker, the manufacturer has probably altered the price recently.
NA = price note available, NC = no charge.
Rebates and Incentives
There are no rebates or incentives at this time.
Consumer Guide®'s Rebates and Incentives represent a summary of national
manufacturer programs available. Regional restrictions may apply, and offerings
may vary by model. For a complete list of Rebate & Incentive programs click here.
Standard Equipment
Standard
Powertrain
4.6-liter V8 224-horsepower engine, 4-speed automatic transmission.
Safety
Dual front airbags, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, emergency inside trunk release.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Air conditioning, power steering, tilt steering wheel, cruise control, cloth upholstery, front split bench seat, 8-way power driver seat, cupholders, column shifter, AM/FM/cassette, digital clock, heated power mirrors, power windows, power door locks, power decklid release, rear defogger, variable-intermittent wipers, wiper-activated automatic headlights, floormats.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Theft-deterrent system, 225/60TR16 tires, wheel covers.
LX adds to Standard:
Comfort and Convenience Features
Automatic climate control, front power lumbar adjustment, 8-way power passenger seat, leather-wrapped steering wheel w/radio controls, remote keyless entry, AM/FM/cassette/CD player, overhead console, illuminated visor mirrors, map lights, automatic day/night rearview mirror, compass.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Full-size spare tire, alloy wheels.
LX Sport adds to LX:
Powertrain
4.6-liter V8 239-horsepower engine, performance axle ratio.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Front bucket seats, 5-way power passenger seat, center console w/floor shifter.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Performance suspension, rear air suspension, 235/55HR17 tires.
Optional Equipment
Major Packages |
Retail Price |
Invoice Price |
|
Handling and Performance Pkg.
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||
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LX
|
$615
|
$547
|
|
Includes 239-horsepower engine, dual exhaust, performance springs, shocks, and stabilizer bars, rear air suspension, performance axle ratio, 225/60TR16 touring tires, unique alloy wheels.
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Powertrain |
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Traction control
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LX, LX Sport, Standard
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$175
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$156
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Safety |
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Front side airbags
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LX, LX Sport
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$255
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$227
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Comfort and Convenience Features |
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Power-adjustable pedals
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LX, LX Sport, Standard
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$120
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$107
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Remote keyless entry
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Standard
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$240
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$213
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Leather upholstery
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LX
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$795
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$708
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LX Sport
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$0
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$0
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AM/FM/cassette/CD player
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Standard
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$185
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$165
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6-disc CD changer
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LX, LX Sport
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$165
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$147
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Electronic instruments
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LX
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$235
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$209
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Digital instruments, trip computer.
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Trunk storage unit
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LX, LX Sport
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$190
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$169
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Appearance and Miscellaneous |
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225/60TR16 whitewall tires
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Standard, LX
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$80
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$71
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NA w/Handling and Performance Pkg.
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Full-size spare tire
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Standard
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$105
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$93
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2003 Ford Crown Victoria Specs & Safety
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | Ford Crown Victoria 4-door sedan |
| Wheelbase, in. | 114.7 |
| Overall Length, in. | 212.0 |
| Overall Width, in. | 78.2 |
| Overall Height, in. | 56.8 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 4057 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 20.6 |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 19.0 |
| Seating Capacity | 6 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 39.3 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 42.5 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 37.9 |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 39.6 |
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Engines
| sohc V8 | sohc V8 | |
| Size, liters/cu. in. | 4.6 /281 | 4.6 /281 |
| Horsepower @ rpm. | 224 @ 4900 | 239 @ 4900 |
| Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm. | 272 @ 4100 | 287 @ 4100 |
| Availability | Standard | Standard |
|
EPA City / highway mpg
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||
| 4-speed automatic | 18/26 | 18/26 |
Engine Key: l/cu in. = liters/cubic inches; ohv = overhead valve; ohc = overhead camshaft;
dohc = dual overhead camshaft; I = inline cylinders; H = horizonally opposed cylinders;
V = cylinders in a V configuration; W = cylinders in a W configuration; rpm = revolutions
per minute; CVT = continuously variable (automatic) transmission; NA = not available; "--"
= measurement does not exist.
Safety Features
Antilock Brakes
Traction Control
Antiskid System |
Front Side Airbags
Curtain Side Airbags
Rear Side Airbags |
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | Ford Crown Victoria 4-door sedan |
| Front Impact, Driver | 5 |
| Front Impact, Passenger | 5 |
| Rollover Resistance | 5 |
| Side Impact, Driver | 4 |
| Side Impact, Rear Passenger | 5 |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's
worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to
rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury:
5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Side-impact
crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%;
1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover
when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%;
2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Manufacturer's Warranty
| Class | Years/Miles | Comments |
| Powertrain | 5/100,000 | Focus only. |
| Bumper-to-bumper | 3/36,000 | -- |
| Corrosion | 5/unlimited | -- |
| Free roadside assistance | 3/36,000 | -- |
| Free scheduled maintenance | None/-- | -- |
Manufacturers may periodically offer additional coverage as a purchase incentive.
There offers are not reflected on this chart. The federal government requires two
other warranties. The Exhaust Emission Warranty covers corrosion-related parts for
2 years/24,000 miles, plus 8 years/80,000 miles on the catalytic converter and any
on-board diagnostic device. The Passenger Restraint Warranty covers seat belts
and airbags for 5 years/50,000 miles.
Built in:
Canada
Drivewheels:
rear-wheel drive
Also in the 2003 Ford Crown Victoria Review:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Ford Crown Victoria Full Review
7.
8.
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