Unlike its modern competition, the Crown Victoria uses body-on-frame construction, and although this does the car no favors in the ride and handling department, it's both durable and cost-effective -- that's why taxicab companies and police departments like it. In 2003, Ford fitted the car with an all-new frame, a redesigned front suspension and rack and pinion steering, which improved the Crown Vic's crash performance and handling. Overall, though, it still can't match the refinement and agility of peers like the Chrysler 300 and Toyota Avalon, which are unibody designs with fully independent suspensions.

For those willing to give up some refinement, the 2007 Ford Crown Victoria offers compelling value: Prices start in the mid-$20Ks and you can get a nicely equipped one for well under $30,000. Upscale features like a navigation system, high-end sound system and Bluetooth are nowhere to be found, of course, but for the typical Crown Vic buyer who just wants a big, comfortable V8 sedan, that won't be much of a problem. Everyone else shopping in the large-sedan segment is advised to try the Ford's modern-day competition first.

The 2007 Ford Crown Victoria is a full-size sedan available in base and LX trim levels. The base model comes with 16-inch steel wheels, air-conditioning, split bench seating with eight-way power adjustments for the driver, a CD stereo, cruise control, full power accessories and keyless entry. Stepping up to the LX gets you alloy wheels, automatic climate control, an overhead console with a compass, and rear-seat reading lights.

Crown Victoria LX buyers can opt for the Premium Sport Handling and Performance Package, which provides 17-inch wheels, an upgraded suspension, dual exhaust, leather upholstery and bucket seats with a console-mounted shift lever (note that choosing this package drops seating capacity to five). The LX Premier Group adds a leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, a power front passenger seat, an in-dash CD changer and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. A moonroof, laminated side glass (that provides a quieter interior) and a full-size spare tire are stand-alone extras.

The 2007 Ford Crown Victoria comes with four-wheel antilock disc brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD). Traction control and power-adjustable pedals are optional on all Crown Vics, while front seat-mounted side airbags are available only on the LX model. When equipped with the side airbags, the Crown Victoria earned a perfect five stars across the board in all NHTSA frontal and side-impact crash tests. Ford's big sedan also earned a "Good" rating (the highest) in frontal-offset crash testing conducted by the IIHS.

The Crown Vic can seat six passengers, thanks to a column-mounted shifter and standard front bench seat; the Premium Sport Handling and Performance Package drops capacity to five by putting a floor shifter and bucket seats up front. If you've ridden in a taxicab recently, you know that interior design and materials quality are not among the Crown Victoria's strengths. For better or for worse, it's basic, roomy and comfortable. The 21-cubic-foot trunk will easily swallow a week's worth of luggage for four adults.

Solid acceleration and a forgiving ride quality are the Crown Victoria's main strengths. Handling is acceptable, but there's no getting around this sedan's substantial weight and dimensions, much less its decades-old platform. If you're looking for nothing more than a family cruiser, the Vic will suffice. But if you want a full-size car that feels nimble and refined, the Chrysler 300C or Toyota Avalon will suit you better.