Ford Crown Victoria AWD vs 4WD: Which is Right for You?

The Ford Crown Victoria has been a popular choice for law enforcement agencies and taxi companies for decades. This full-size sedan was renowned for its reliability, spaciousness, and comfort. However, one thing that the Crown Vic was not known for was its off-road capabilities. That is until the introduction of the all-wheel-drive (AWD) and four-wheel-drive (4WD) models.

In this blog post, we'll dive deep into the world of Ford Crown Victoria AWD and 4WD. We'll explore the differences between these two drivetrains, their benefits and drawbacks, and whether they're worth the extra cost. We'll also discuss the Crown Vic's suitability for off-road driving, its performance on different terrains, and the modifications you can make to enhance its capabilities. So, whether you're a fan of the Crown Victoria or simply curious about its all-terrain potential, read on to discover what this iconic vehicle is truly capable of.

What Exactly is Ford Crown Victoria AWD or 4WD?

The Ford Crown Victoria AWD and 4WD models are variations of the Crown Victoria full-size sedan that are equipped with either an all-wheel-drive or four-wheel-drive system, respectively. These systems are designed to improve the vehicle's traction and handling on slippery or uneven surfaces, such as snow, ice, mud, or gravel.

The AWD system distributes power to all four wheels of the vehicle continuously, while the 4WD system allows the driver to select between two or four-wheel-drive modes depending on the driving conditions. In both cases, the extra traction and stability provided by the additional wheels improve the vehicle's overall performance and safety, particularly in adverse weather or off-road situations.

The Ford Crown Victoria AWD and 4WD models were first introduced in the early 2000s, primarily for law enforcement agencies and other fleet customers. However, these drivetrains were also made available to the general public, giving buyers a new level of versatility and capability in their Crown Victoria sedan.

Why should you consider Ford Crown Victoria AWD or 4WD?

There are several reasons why you should consider a Ford Crown Victoria AWD or 4WD if you're in the market for a reliable and capable full-size sedan. Here are some of the main benefits of these drivetrains:

  1. Improved Traction: The AWD and 4WD systems provide better traction and stability on slippery or uneven surfaces, making the Crown Victoria safer and more confident to drive in adverse weather conditions, such as snow, ice, or rain.

  2. Enhanced Off-Road Capabilities: The AWD and 4WD systems make the Crown Victoria more capable of handling light off-road situations, such as dirt roads, gravel tracks, or muddy fields. This is particularly useful for outdoor enthusiasts, rural dwellers, or anyone who needs to drive on unpaved surfaces regularly.

  3. Versatility: The AWD and 4WD systems make the Crown Victoria more versatile, allowing it to handle a wider range of driving conditions and terrain types. This is particularly useful for drivers who live in regions with unpredictable weather or who need a vehicle that can handle different driving scenarios.

  4. Resale Value: The AWD and 4WD models are often more valuable than their front-wheel-drive counterparts, particularly in regions where adverse weather conditions are common. This means that if you ever decide to sell your Crown Victoria, you may be able to get a higher price for it than you would with a standard model.

Overall, if you're looking for a reliable, comfortable, and versatile full-size sedan that can handle a wide range of driving conditions, the Ford Crown Victoria AWD or 4WD is definitely worth considering.

These vehicles offer a unique combination of comfort, reliability, and off-road capabilities that are hard to find in other full-size sedans.

First off, the AWD and 4WD systems are incredibly well-designed and built to last. These drivetrains offer excellent traction and handling on any terrain, from snow and ice to mud and gravel. They're also very responsive and easy to control, making them ideal for both novice and experienced drivers.

In terms of comfort and reliability, the Crown Victoria is a top-performer. These vehicles are known for their spaciousness, smooth ride, and powerful engines. They're also very easy to maintain and repair, thanks to their simple yet robust design.

As a mechanic, I particularly appreciate how easy it is to upgrade and customize the Crown Victoria AWD and 4WD models. Whether you want to install new suspension components, beef up the engine, or add some off-road accessories, these vehicles are very versatile and adaptable.

Overall, I would highly recommend the Ford Crown Victoria AWD or 4WD to anyone who is looking for a reliable, comfortable, and capable full-size sedan. These vehicles are built to last, perform well in any driving condition, and offer plenty of room for customization and upgrades.

Ford Crown Victoria AWD or 4WD Ingredient a comparison table

The Ford Crown Victoria AWD and 4WD models have several important ingredients that make them unique and versatile. Let's take a closer look at each ingredient and compare the two drivetrains side by side.

  1. Drivetrain: The AWD system in the Crown Victoria uses a viscous coupling to transfer power between the front and rear wheels, while the 4WD system uses a transfer case to switch between two and four-wheel drive modes. Both systems provide excellent traction and stability in slippery or uneven conditions.

  2. Suspension: The AWD and 4WD models use a modified version of the Crown Victoria's standard suspension, which includes heavier-duty components, larger stabilizer bars, and stiffer springs. This setup improves the vehicle's handling and stability, especially during off-road driving.

  3. Engine: The AWD and 4WD models are powered by a 4.6-liter V8 engine that produces 235 horsepower and 276 lb-ft of torque. This engine provides plenty of power and torque for the Crown Victoria's size and weight, and is also very reliable and easy to maintain.

  4. Transmission: Both the AWD and 4WD models use a four-speed automatic transmission that shifts smoothly and reliably. The transmission is also very durable and easy to maintain, which is important for fleet customers and other high-mileage drivers.

Here's a comparison table that summarizes the differences between the AWD and 4WD models:

Ingredient AWD Model 4WD Model
Drivetrain Viscous coupling Transfer case
Suspension Heavier-duty components, larger stabilizer bars, stiffer springs Heavier-duty components, larger stabilizer bars, stiffer springs
Engine 4.6-liter V8, 235 horsepower, 276 lb-ft of torque 4.6-liter V8, 235 horsepower, 276 lb-ft of torque
Transmission Four-speed automatic Four-speed automatic

Overall, both the AWD and 4WD models of the Ford Crown Victoria offer similar performance, handling, and capabilities. The main difference between the two is the way the power is distributed to the wheels. The AWD system is better suited for driving on slippery or uneven surfaces, while the 4WD system is better for off-road driving or situations where more traction is needed.

F.A.Q. for Ford Crown Victoria AWD or 4WD

Q: What's the difference between AWD and 4WD? A: AWD (All-Wheel Drive) distributes power to all four wheels all the time, while 4WD (Four-Wheel Drive) only distributes power to all four wheels when needed, typically in off-road or low-traction situations.

Q: Is the Crown Victoria AWD or 4WD good for off-road driving? A: Both the AWD and 4WD models of the Crown Victoria are capable of handling some off-road driving, but they're not designed to be hardcore off-road vehicles. The modified suspension and drivetrain components provide better traction and handling on rough terrain, but the vehicle's size and weight can make it challenging to maneuver on tight trails.

Q: Are there any downsides to owning a Crown Victoria AWD or 4WD? A: One potential downside is that the AWD and 4WD models tend to be slightly less fuel-efficient than the rear-wheel drive models, due to the added weight and complexity of the drivetrain. They also tend to have slightly higher maintenance costs, since the AWD and 4WD components require occasional servicing.

Q: Can you upgrade or modify the Crown Victoria AWD or 4WD? A: Yes, the Crown Victoria AWD and 4WD models are very customizable and there are plenty of aftermarket upgrades available. You can install performance suspension components, upgrade the engine, or add off-road accessories like skid plates and lift kits.

Q: Is the Crown Victoria AWD or 4WD a good choice for law enforcement or taxi fleets? A: Yes, the Crown Victoria AWD and 4WD models are very popular with law enforcement agencies and taxi companies due to their reliability, comfort, and durability. The added traction and stability of the AWD and 4WD systems can also be useful in certain situations.