Ford Unveils 1998 Crown Victoria, Announces Prices
7 November 1997
Ford Unveils 1998 Crown Victoria, Announces Prices
MIAMI, Nov. 7 -- Ford pulled the covers off the 1998 Crown
Victoria today revealing a restyled and reengineered rear-wheel drive sedan
with improved ride, handling and steering -- and the government's highest
crash test rating.
Ford also announced manufacturer suggested retail prices that, together
with new packages, are designed to attract current owners and new customers to
the showroom.
Manufacturer's suggested retail prices will start at $21,540, up $255 from
comparably equipped 1997 models. The LX model, with an exceptional level of
standard equipment, delivers additional customer comfort and safety features
starting at $23,740 (prices include destination charges of $605).
Crown Victoria standard equipment includes a new Watt's linkage rear
suspension system, power locks, speed control, SecuriLock(TM) anti-theft
system, improved battery.
"The new Crown Victoria gives us the opportunity to win customers who
previously may not have considered a full-size sedan," said Ross Roberts, Ford
Motor Company vice president and general manager of Ford Division.
"The technical revisions made to the suspension, steering and braking
systems make Crown Victoria's rear-wheel drive platform an absolute pleasure
to drive."
As baby boomers enter their early 50s, their needs change. Crown
Victoria's strengths -- a large trunk for their cargo needs, a roomy back seat
for children, and a comfortable ride and confident handling for the hours they
spend commuting or taking trips become more important.
A New Look
"In researching new styling, customers told us they liked the current car,
but really wanted their Crown Victoria to have a more prominent grille and
formal rear styling," said Marla Frazier, Crown Victoria brand manager.
For 1998 a larger, bolder horizontal grille replaces the contemporary
"grilleless-look" of the previous model. Also, a new hood, headlamps and
parking lamps highlight Crown Victoria's front appearance.
Crown Victoria's rear has been changed with taller chrome trimmed
taillamps. The Ford oval is centered in a body-colored deck lid cladding
above the license plate, which is flanked by large back-up lamps.
What's Watts Got To Do With It?
A new rear suspension system, modified front suspension, new 16-inch
wheels and tires, and larger brakes account for Crown Victoria's improved ride
control and stability.
A Watt's linkage rear suspension improves handling and straight-ahead
tracking and stability by reducing side-to-side movement of the rear axle.
It improves steering feel and directional stability by reducing lateral
compliance and greatly reduces rear suspension-induced wander.
Crown Victoria Can Handle It
In addition to a base rear suspension package, which delivers a firm ride,
an optional handling package is available.
The handling package includes a 3.27:1 axle ratio, compared to 2.73:1 on
the base package, dual exhaust, performance tires and heavier stabilizer bars
for a tighter, more controlled ride.
Optional all-speed traction control replaces low-speed traction assist and
provides improved traction under all road conditions at all speeds.
Under the Hood
Crown Victoria is powered by a 4.6-liter SOHC V-8 engine that delivers 200
horsepower at 4,250 rpm and 265 foot-foot pounds of torque at 3,000 rpm.
Buyers opting for the handling package gain 15 extra horsepower and 10 more
foot-pounds of torque.
SecuriLock, an anti-theft system, which prevents the vehicle from being
started unless the correct key is used, is now standard on Crown Victoria.
SOURCE Ford Motor Company
