Changes to Crown Vic's independent short- and long-arm front suspension include a new, more robust steel upper control arm, a new aluminum lower control arm and steering knuckle, coil-over-shock springs, monotube shock absorbers and revised suspension geometry for improved tracking at highway speeds and more control during cornering and on rough roads.
In the rear, the shocks are now mounted outboard of the frame rails, which allows them to better manage the unsprung mass of the axle. Load-leveling air springs are available as an option.
Crown Victoria also replaces its recirculating ball steering gear with a new rack-and-pinion system that is not only far more precise and lighter, but also allows for a tighter turning circle.
The new Crown Victoria steering also has a variable-ratio gear, as well as speed-sensitive power assist.
Electronic Brakeforce Distribution is now used to dynamically proportion braking forces front to rear, and a new dual-rate brake booster with ''panic assist'' automatically supplies full braking power even if the driver doesn't initially apply enough pedal pressure to engage the standard anti-lock braking system.
Crown Vic also gets new seat foams, fabrics, sew styles and headrests, O'Connor says, all with an eye to improved comfort and appearance.
Finally, the driver's seat travel is increased by an inch and the door trim has been redesigned for cleaner appearance and better ergonomics.
Hey, if you sell a fleet car, you have to look after those cops, limo drivers and traveling sales folks.
