Aside from its power improvement over earlier versions, the modified engine features a new power-train control module that opens the fuel injectos sequentially to smooth out the idle and beef up performance. The result was a thrust-happy but luxurious ride, with acceleration comparable to a 250-pound linebacker who runs the 100-yard dash in 10 seconds.When we hit the expressway, the Estate Wagon zoomed from 50 to 70 mph with velvety ease and still felt as though it had much more to give. Although the speedometer topped out at 120 mph, we felt this beast could hit a lot higher with minimal strain.
The Estate Wagon's standard heavy-duty suspension had us floating, even at high speeds. When we took a big S curve at 40 mph, the suspension grabbed the road confidently. Our test model had the optional, and highly recommended, limited-slip differential. At only $100, it delivered extra traction on icy roads.
New for '94 was the variable-assist steering previously available only on the Roadmaster Sedan. We darted in and out of traffic at 45 mph using only fingertip pressure, while at higher speeds, the steering tightened up accordingly. And just one finger was needed for a parallel-parking maneuver, during which the wagon's expansive windows afforded superior visibility.
Hitting the brakes while traveling at 65 mph, we could feel the weight, torque and engine muscle, but we also felt confident that the standard antilock brakes were more than capable of bringing this massive vehicle to a controlled stop.
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