Almost got hit with the kids in the wagon this afternoon - very glad we dodged a bullet, and the Grand Marquis responded very well doing about 45 mph when I had to swerve to avoid the head-on collision (it was a late model Ram pick-up). Didn't even dislodge a wheel cover. Thankful for a lot, wishing members safety and good health now and throughout the year.
Glad you were on your toes, and very glad you were in the wagon. With the fairly wide track, the strong frame, and the low centre of gravity, these cars handle much better than logic says they should. Trust me, I know! Because of the rear wheel drive weight distribution, you don't get the understeer. Had you been in the van, even with stability control and traction control, not to mention abs, you could still have been in trouble. That wagon sure looks TERRIFIC.
Thanks MikeT. Even mechanics get surprised at the good road manners of these cars. They even maneuver pretty well because the wheelbase is about the same as an early 70's Torino, but overall length and interior space is bigger than the mid-size wheelbase would suggest. Plan on keeping until I'm old and grey and then passing on to another wagon fan.
What a scare that must have been. Glad no one was in jury, including your that very nice looking wagon. Shows very well in the dark. The house looks pretty with the Christmas lights. We're hoping to get ours up tomorrow.
90Merc: The wheelbase on these wagons is the same as the 70s Torino/LTD II 2 door coupes. It is shorter than the 4 door and wagon mid-sized models. If you really want to see one handle, add the suspension and anti-sway bars from the 351 Towing Package. That 1 1/4 inch front and 1 inch rear bar really do make a huge difference, and the heaier springs and shocks take all the float out of the ride, leaving a nice smooth, easy motion. When I had the 89, I had to run Comp T/A HR-4s on it, because the tires, even Radial T/As, were the weakest link in the handling.
Thanks MikeT - forgot that the wheelbase was actually shorter than the older mid-size wagons. Suppose I could add the anti-sway bars at some point, but I kind of enjoy the ride the way it is.
