And, like most modern engines, its first major service won't be due until 100,000 miles. A far cry from the full-size sedans of the 1960s. Another modern feature is fail-safe cooling. If the engine loses all its coolant, the engine computer will cut back on the number of cylinders to allow the car to run until the driver can get to safety or find a mechanic. V-8, if the optional handling package is specified.
Acceleration is leisurely but adequate.
Going from a stop to 60 mph will take about 8.4 seconds with the 200 horsepower engine. When it comes to handling on the Grand Marquis, it's probably more pertinent to talk about highway ride first. The way in which the big Mercury reminds a driver of the 1960s is in its living-room ride. It has a slightly floaty feel that filters out nearly all road imperfections. At 70 mph, it's among the most quiet sedans on the road.