While barns and sheds remain an excellent source of classic cars, estate finds are becoming more common. This 1999 Mercury Grand Marquis LS is a perfect example, presenting well for a car with over twenty-five years of service under its belt. It has a genuine 72,000 miles on its odometer, is loaded with luxury features, and is undeniably affordable. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Tony P for spotting the Mercury listed here on Craigslist in Libertyville, Illinois. So, how much is affordable? You could become its new owner for a mere $5,600.
Mercury released its Third Generation Grand Marquis for the 1998 model year, with the LS variant as its range-topping version. It found a ready market, with the 1999 model year seeing an impressive 142,372 cars rolling off showroom floors. This Medium Champagne Metallic LS is one of those cars that recently emerged from an estate. The seller describes it as “very lightly driven,” and its overall appearance supports that. There are no major panel imperfections, the paint is consistent across all surfaces, and there is no evidence of rust. I did spot a few chips on the front bumper, but a reputable shop should have no trouble addressing these without breaking the bank. The seller doesn’t mention verifying evidence for their mileage claim, but the general lack of wear and tear makes it plausible. The Mercury rolls on 16″ Teardrop alloy wheels that were an integral part of the LS Package, and the tinted glass looks crystal clear.
Every Third Generation Grand Marquis left the factory equipped with a 4.6-liter “Modular” V8, a four-speed automatic transmission, and power-assisted steering and brakes. This car’s anti-lock brakes should allow it to stop safely on a dime. The 1999 Sales Brochure quotes power and torque figures of 200hp and 275 ft/lbs, and several contemporary road tests confirm that achieving fuel consumption figures on the “good” side of 20mpg was pretty easy. Potential buyers can consider this Mercury to be a turnkey proposition. It runs and drives beautifully, starts easily with a twist of the key, and the seller states that there is no evidence of fluid leaks. The seller is willing to negotiate in-person inspections, suggesting that they have nothing to hide.
This Mercury’s interior will suit those who prefer comfort, because it is loaded with features that would make any journey a pleasant experience. Dual airbags were standard equipment in 1999, with this car also equipped with the optional leather trim, climate-control air conditioning, power windows, power locks, power mirrors, power front seats, cruise control, a digital gauge cluster, and a premium AM/FM radio/cassette player. The front seats show slight deterioration that might respond positively to the application of a high-quality conditioner, but the back seat looks like it has rarely seen occupants. The fact that the relatively pale carpet is free from major marks indicates that the car has lived a sheltered life, and there are no issues with the dash, plastic, or timber trim.
This 1999 Mercury Grand Marquis LS will offer someone a lot for their money. Its presentation is impressive for its age, and its interior features luxury touches that stand up quite well when compared to more modern vehicles. Mercury had made great strides with fuel economy, meaning that this Grand Marquis doesn’t necessarily have to wait for the weekends to hit the road. It could function as an effective daily driver, allowing its new owner to enjoy all that it offers every day. It hasn’t been on the market for long, and I wouldn’t be surprised if it finds a new home fairly quickly.
If I didn’t have enough cars already,I’d be looking
for one like this.You can drive one all day,& not be worn out.
I once drove one from Eureka,CA to Olympia,Washing in one
day,& could have kept going.
I know why the cops loved Crown Victorias – basicly
the same car.
Very nice one here. These are one of the most durable, comfortable, nice driving cars out there. Just like angliagt said above, a great place to be soaking up lots of miles. 72000 miles is a nice amount to have on a car like this. Not babied too much, was actually used, but not used too much. You can probably junpin this thing and hit the road no problem.
Good write-up Adam. I agree with previous posters. Not interested in today’s new family vehicle offerings (essentially all some variation of an SUV), or the computer wizardry in them all? Here you go. Comfortable, dependable, quiet, easily maintained, not bad looking. And cheap.
Used to see some of these as Taxis, handful had propane ⛽️ conversions done.
Having operated Crown Vics with lights on the top.i know these cars. Indestructible is an understatement. The 4.6 is goof for 200 thousand miles with some maintenance. The suspension is tough. And the Grand Marquie has lots of comfort type things. This is a great buy.
I am getting real close to retirement and was thinking I was set on vehicles but this thing would be the perfect old man car. I know it’s 26 years old already but these things will run forever as long as you do the basic maintenance and DON’T get them hot. The only thing about this one that I don’t like is that it most likely has the air-ride rear suspension. I was always told to stay away from the ones with that.
A. It’s very unlikely that this standard LS has air susp. And B. Air suspension on these was trouble free and had the best ride! But was only found on the LSE starting in 2001, or if ordered with the hpp package.
This is a jewel by gosh. Someone is getting a great ride.
I never liked the LOOK of these, after 1991; however, that said, if I had the money and the means to get it here, I might be tempted to retire my 402,000+ miles 1988 Grand Marquis. If mine is any indication, these are indeed “last nearly forever” trouble-free cars. And I like the fact that this is an LS. what I decidedly DON’T like, are those LEATHER SEATS! Give me velour, please.
Our 2000 Crown Vic gave us over 100,000 trouble free miles. And was THE car car highway traveling. But years of the dreaded sodium chloride that Ohio sprays like mad cats in heat, took it’s toll. If we needed a 4th car? This one would be in the running.
These cars are nearly indestructible and will run forever if properly maintained. That and they are super-comfortable effortless cruisers. All of that said, being in my sixties I’m still not old enough to be driving this. :-)