* Rear-wheel drive (RWD): In snowy or icy conditions, the RWD system proved challenging to handle, leading to loss of control and accidents. This was a major drawback, especially for agencies in areas with frequent inclement weather.
* Solid rear axle: The solid rear axle, while durable, provided a harsh ride and less precise handling compared to independent rear suspensions found in many other vehicles. This contributed to officer fatigue on long shifts and reduced overall comfort.
* Large size and turning radius: The Crown Vic's size made it less maneuverable in tight spaces, such as parking lots or residential streets. Its large turning radius further compounded this issue.
* Fuel economy: The Crown Vic's V8 engine was notoriously thirsty, leading to high fuel costs for police departments. This was a significant budget concern, especially given the high mileage these vehicles typically accumulated.
* Lack of modern safety features: Compared to newer vehicles, the Crown Vic lacked advanced safety features like electronic stability control (ESC) as standard equipment (it was added later as an option) and airbags, for a time even side airbags. This left officers at greater risk in collisions.
* Maintenance costs: While generally durable, the Crown Vic's age and design resulted in higher-than-average maintenance costs over its lifespan, particularly as parts became less readily available in later years.
* Susceptibility to rust: Especially in areas with harsh winters, the body was prone to rust, reducing its lifespan and requiring costly repairs.
* Limited interior space in the back: While the front offered decent room, rear passenger space was cramped for larger individuals or multiple passengers.
It's important to note that despite these drawbacks, the Crown Victoria's durability, affordability (initially), and readily available parts made it a popular choice for many police departments for a considerable period. However, the problems listed above ultimately contributed to its eventual replacement.
