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Mercury Marauder Single Generation (2003-2004)

2003–2004 · Panther · sedan

Performance-trim Mercury Grand Marquis built at St. Thomas, Ontario on Ford's Panther platform (body-on-frame, RWD). Single drivetrain: 4.6L 4V DOHC Modular V8 making 302 hp - the same engine family as the Mustang Mach 1 and the Lincoln Aviator. 4-speed automatic (4R70W in 2003, 4R75W in 2004), 3.55 limited-slip rear axle, dual exhaust, monochromatic black-or-very-dark exterior. The last rear-wheel-drive sedan Ford Motor Company introduced in North America. Total production: 11,052 units across both model years - well short of the 18,000-annual projection.

Watch out: Owner reports of valve cover gasket leaks and worn timing-chain tensioners on the 4.6L 4V DOHC at higher mileage. Rear air suspension on early build is the same Panther-platform Achilles heel as the Grand Marquis / Town Car - coil-spring conversion is the common owner fix. Mid-2003 de-contenting (Ford quietly removed features like the remote fuel door release and engine-bay lamp) makes early-2003 builds the more desirable spec to hunt. Otherwise the Panther bones are bulletproof.