I hear they have good pickup
In other words, poor people. These are cars that are frequently so worn out that they are of little value so people with any money get a better used car. Also, they are an attraction to a category of people who think they look more impressive than they really are. So “Oooh, a cheap Crown Vic. I’m really going to impress folks.” Right.
I have a cousin that used to buy used LTDs and such just because “Hey, it is an LTD.” But they were beaters, had ripped up and dirty interiors, etc. And definitely in the “Fix or repair daily.” phase. I’m sure he would have gone for a Crown Vic back then.
Now he has money. He buys really nice trucks.
Possibly poor people, but these cars aren’t really that cheap. You could get a similar-aged Civic or Corolla for the same sort of money.
That reminded me of the Chevy 789. Damn, those are purty.
I’d take the Crown Vic over the other two (I’ve owned two Civics in my past, and they were both awesome cars). I’m older and larger, and there’s just something so nice about putting in lots and lots of miles on a heavy, body-on-frame vehicle. In fact I’d kind of like to pick up a Mercury Marauder if I can find one in decent condition when I get home (but, oh, they’ll all be at least 14 years old by then).
With regards to affordability of an old Crown Vic vrs a Civic or such, the parts for a Crown Vic are generally cheaper, the vehicle is easier to service yourself and being both larger and less technically advanced (and thoroughly vetted as a fleet vehicle over a couple decades), holds up to abuse fairly well.
In my opinion…