1976 Mercury Grand Marquis Brougham review from North America
"The standard for design of all full sized luxury North American vehicles"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Radiator had to be replaced as core became blocked an was causing overheating.
Universal joints and driveshaft slip yolk became seized in transmission and had to be replaced.
Cylinder heads removed to clean out carbon causing engine knocking.
The vacuum actuators for the headlight covers developed air leaks and were disconnected as the replacements were too expensive.
General comments?
Car was purchased used from original owner and was well maintained and aside from problems listed above only required regular maintenance.
The best riding car I have ever purchased, comfortable, quiet and reliable despite mileage.
Fuel mileage on the highway was excellent, usually 21-22 miles per gallon, but it was down to 13 or 14 for city driving.
Engine always started on first try and was very easy to start on the coldest mornings.
Acceleration was excellent from a dead stop, but the power seemed to go away above 60 mph.
Handling and braking were very good for a vehicle of this weight and in view of the fact it was really designed for a soft ride.
The trunk was absolutely cavernous.
All the power accessories worked as well as the air conditioning.
The car was relatively rust free for its age, but the paint was destroyed from years of being kept in an underground parking garage that leaked and nothing could bring it back to a shine.
Excellent value for a used car.
Recommended reviews
| 1986 - Grand Marquis LS 302 5.0 Liter Big and Tall, Cheap and Swift |
| Still sexy, solid, and reliable at 22! |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Year of manufacture | 1976 |
| First year of ownership | 1984 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 1986 |
| Engine and transmission | 400 ci. 2bbl Automatic |
| Performance marks | 8 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 10 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 10 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 6 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 101000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 135000 miles |
| Previous car | Mercury Cougar |
| Date of Entry | 12th February, 2004 |