The transmission delivers smooth, precise, quick shifts. Like many transmissions on the market today, it requires no maintenance for the life of the car.

The Grand Marquis offers a smooth, quiet ride. It is stable at high speeds and in crosswinds. Better yet, the rear suspension was altered substantially for 1999, resulting in the best-handling big Mercury we've ever driven. The rear trailing arms were redesigned and relocated to provide better control of vertical wheel motions. A Watt link -- a simple mechanical linkage between the center of the frame and the axle assembly that locates the axle laterally -- was added. The car does float over undulating pavement, though not at uncomfortable levels. The steering is a bit light at higher speeds, but the power-assist makes it easy to maneuver the big car in crowded parking lots.

Braking performance is surprisingly good for such a large car. The brakes were enlarged and upgraded last year, with larger, thicker rotors and dual-piston calipers on the front discs. Those changes improve braking performance and reduce the chance of brake fade when descending steep mountain grades. Steel 16-inch wheels are standard, while aluminum alloy wheels are optional. Standard tires are P225/60R-16.

We found our Grand Marquis to be a pleasure to drive on a winding road, yet Mercury has more in store for serious drivers. An optional Handling Package includes a completely retuned suspension with revised air shocks and a larger rear stabilizer bar, plus a quicker 3.27:1 axle ratio, the more powerful dual-exhaust engine, special 16-inch alloy wheels and Goodyear high-performance tires. The Handling Package sharpens cornering response and improves acceleration. At the same time, it doesn't degrade the ride quality.