What engine is in a 2006 Ford Crown Victoria?
The 2006 Crown Victoria uses Ford’s 4.6-liter Modular V8 engine, specifically the SOHC two-valve-per-cylinder version.
Beyond that basic fact, the engine is part of Ford’s widely used Modular V8 family. In the civilian Crown Victoria, the engine delivers about 224 horsepower and roughly 267 pound-feet of torque, while the Police Interceptor variant is tuned for higher output to meet patrol-duty demands.
Engine family and configuration
The Crown Victoria’s powerplant is part of Ford’s Modular V8 family. In this generation, the engine is a 4.6-liter V8 with a single overhead camshaft per bank and two valves per cylinder, designed for durability and broad low-end torque suitable for large sedans and fleet use.
- Displacement: 4.6 liters (4,601 cc)
- Valvetrain: single overhead camshaft (SOHC), 2 valves per cylinder
- Fuel system: sequential multi-point fuel injection
- Configuration: V8, rear-wheel-drive architecture with a four-speed automatic transmission in most trims
These characteristics define the core architecture that powered the 2006 Crown Victoria across civilian and police variants.
Civilian Crown Victoria specifications
The civilian variant of the 2006 Crown Victoria relies on the same 4.6-liter V8, with performance tuned for everyday driving. Here are the typical figures associated with this trim.
- Displacement: 4.6 L (4601 cc)
- Horsepower: ~224 hp @ ~4,750 rpm
- Torque: ~267 lb-ft @ ~3,000 rpm
- Engine layout: SOHC, 2 valves per cylinder
The civilian Crown Victoria emphasizes smooth delivery and reliability, suited to family use and long highway drives.
Police Interceptor specifications
The Police Interceptor variant, built for fleet and law-enforcement duty, borrows the same basic engine but is tuned for higher output and durability under heavy use. The following figures reflect typical CVPI specifications for this era.
- Displacement: 4.6 L (4601 cc)
- Horsepower: around 250 hp
- Torque: around 287 lb-ft
- Tuning and cooling: enhanced cooling, exhaust, and drivetrain tuning for patrol duties
Quality and durability remain hallmarks of the CVPI’s powertrain, designed to withstand prolonged high-speed operation and rapid acceleration.
Maintenance considerations
Owners should follow Ford’s maintenance guidelines for the 4.6L Modular V8, including regular spark plug service, timing chain checks, cooling system maintenance, and using the recommended motor oil and fluids. The engine is known for longevity when properly cared for, with common-sense preventive maintenance aiding reliability in both civilian and police configurations.
Why this engine matters for buyers and drivers
The 4.6-liter Modular V8 became emblematic of Ford’s full-size sedan strategy in the 1990s and 2000s, prized for torque, durability, and straightforward maintenance. For buyers of older Crown Victorias or for fleets seeking parts and service compatibility, the 4.6L V8 remains a familiar and relatively easy-to-support choice.
Summary
In short, the 2006 Ford Crown Victoria is powered by Ford’s 4.6-liter Modular V8 (SOHC, 2 valves per cylinder). The civilian model produces about 224 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque, while the Police Interceptor version is tuned for roughly 250 horsepower and 287 lb-ft of torque, reflecting its higher-demand duties. This engine family is central to the Crown Victoria’s reputation for durability and reliability in both everyday and patrol use.
