1988 Dodge Diplomat Salon AHB Police Package from North America - Comments

The (review/slash walk down memory lane) directly above was moderately entertaining and interesting. If only partly accurate. I can't attest to the older police cars you speak of, such as the Polara. I know they had large engines (440 cid) and such. They may have been fairly quick in a straight line, but don't ask them to turn or stop. Itty-bitty rotors up front and drums in the rear meant you aint bringing two plus tons down anytime soon. The problem was made worse by the skinny bias ply tires available at the time.

The "Dippy" as you call it, was a decent patrol car for the time, but no rocket ship. Sounds like your "project" will be quite interesting when it's done. I didn't catch the model year of your project "Diddy". Might I recommend a 1989 because they were equiped with a driver's side airbag. You'll likely need it, as the handling and braking will still be weak and a bad wreck is eminent. "Be careful."

Lastly, I've got to be honest here. This police package/special service Lumina you speak of was not a performance car. Perhaps it felt quick and nimble by virtue of its lighter weight in comparison to other vehicles you've driven/sailed. The Lumina was not fast. It's known for being an asset to bigger city departments for its maneuverability and gas mileage ie; slightly lower operateing costs. Recaro seats! Perhaps, but they could not have been comfortable with ones duty gear on. Every patrol car I have driven has had rather unsupportive seats. This is unfortunately necessary because a heavily bolstered (form fitting) chair wouldn't work with all the gear officers wear. Look, like a previous reviewer said, one mans pinto is another mans Rolls Royce. I love old patrol cars. There's something cool about them. However, we have to be realistic about it and not let the our fondness for them, exaggerate and distort the facts. Most patrol cars are not fast and do not handle well. One exception, was the now defunct police package Camaro (2002 was the last year). Sadly, even the famous Mustang patrol cars were only quick in a straight line. The 1994-1996 P/P Chevy Caprice with the LT1 was just as quick, had a higher top speed, handled better, and naturally held much more stuff. Good luck!