Grand Marquis has traditional appeal, contemporary features and world class safety

Grand Marquis, Mercury's flagship vehicle, is a full-size sedan designed to meet the changing demands of traditional large-car buyers. And the 1999 Grand Marquis adds safety to its long list of highlights as it recently was awarded the government's top safety rating for front-seat drivers and passengers.

Flexibility is a key to Grand Marquis' success.

"Grand Marquis owners like their cars because they can take another couple to the theater for a night on the town or their grandkids to a burger joint and still feel comfortable," said Al Giombetti, Mercury group brand manager.

With its combination of standard V-8 power, full-size roominess and trunk space, and rear-wheel drive, the four-door Grand Marquis combines the traditional appeal of rear-wheel drive with contemporary features.

After undergoing a major freshening in 1998, color and trim changes enhance the 1999 Grand Marquis.

A smooth, comfortable ride has always been a Grand Marquis hallmark. The car is equiped with the PrecisionTrac™ suspension system featuring a Watt's linkage rear, which provides excellent directional control even during strong crosswinds or hard cornering.

Grand Marquis is powered by a 4.6-liter SOHC V-8 engine that delivers 200 horsepower at 4,250 rpm, 275 foot-pounds of torque at 3,000 rpm and 100,000-mile tuneup intervals under normal driving conditions. An optional package which includes unique tuned suspension, a larger axle ratio, large-diameter rear stabilizer bar, rear air springs and dual exhaust delivers 215 horsepower.

Grand Marquis earned a Five-Star, best-in-class rating in government crash tests for both driver and front passenger.

Base price on the Grand Marquis GS is $22,220 and the LS starts at $24,120.