Let us confirm your first impressions about the Town Car. Yes, it's the biggest, roomiest car Ford makes. It's also the heaviest, weighing in at more than 4000 lb. One big reason for all that heft can be found in the way Ford builds it. The Town Car's body is attached to a separate, ladder-like frame holding the powertrain and suspension. Every other Ford car is built a self-supporting unibody - the frame and bodywork are essentially all one piece. Conventional wisdom says body-on-frame construction absorbs punishment better, while unibodies result in a lighter vehicle with better handling. That's one of the reasons you should consider the Town Car's optional handling suspension package. But more on that a little later. The Town Car comes with only one powertrain: a 210-hp 4.6-liter V8 engine and electronically controlled 4-speed automatic transmission. This is a thoroughly modern engine - Ford's "modular V8"" - that should provide all the oomph you need in most circumstances, and unlike the engines in many luxury sedans, it will run on regular unleaded fuel. Even the most modest version of the Town Car comes with a long list of standard equipment and luxury features, such as air conditioning, cruise control and power seats. And safety equipment on all Town Cars is up to the minute, with dual airbags and anti-lock disc brakes. Redesigned for '95 are the grille, front and rear bumpers, headlamps, taillamps and expanded outside mirrors. The result is a slightly - very slightly - more swept and rounded look. How much does all this cost? Prices start at $36,895 for Executive models, including destination charges. The Signature Series, starting at $38,995, adds a few luxury perks such as power lumbar support and radio and temperature controls on the steering wheel hub. Prices for the Cartier vehicles start at $41,695.
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