* Engine HP: Both used the 4.6L Modular V8. However, the *exact* horsepower rating varied slightly year to year and between slight calibration differences. While both were very close to 250 hp, you won't find a consistently documented difference that's significant enough to be reliable. The police calibrations *might* have a slightly higher output than the LX Sport versions but it wouldn't be a substantial difference, potentially only a few horsepower and mostly not explicitly stated by Ford in official documentation. The biggest difference came down to tuning and calibration for different intended uses (police pursuit vs civilian driving).
* Suspension & Drivetrain: This is where the most noticeable differences lie. The P71 Interceptor had a significantly heavier-duty suspension system designed to withstand the rigors of police work, including high-speed pursuits and rough road conditions. This included:
* Heavier-duty springs and shocks: Providing greater stability and control, especially under load (think a patrol officer and equipment).
* Larger brakes: Larger rotors and calipers were typically used for improved stopping power. Sometimes you'd see upgraded brake pads too for faster stopping.
* Steering system: Potentially different steering gear ratios or calibrations to offer more direct feel, especially at higher speeds.
* Rear Axle: Possibly a different rear axle ratio for faster acceleration, common in police models.
The drivetrain itself (transmission, driveshaft, differential) used the same basic components but the differences in the suspension significantly altered the handling and performance characteristics of the P71 versus the civilian LX Sport. The P71 was built to handle much more abuse and heavier loads at much higher speeds than a civilian vehicle would.
