NCJ Number
90353
Date Published
1982
Length
54 pages
Annotation
This report presents the data collected and the conclusions reached in the Michigan State Police's evaluation of 11 1982 police patrol package vehicles.
Abstract
The cars equipped with V8 engines went through the full evaluation process and included the Chevrolet Impala (350-4V), Chevrolet Malibu (305-4V), Dodge Diplomat (318-4V), Ford Fairmont (255-2V), Ford LTD (351 H.O.-VV), and Plymouth Gran Fury (318-4V). Vehicles equipped with 6 and 4 cylinder engines were tested only for acceleration and top speed. The 6 cylinder cars were the Chevrolet Malibu (229-2V), Ford Fairmont (200-1V), and the Plymouth Gran Fury (225-1V). The cars with 4 cylinder engines were the Dodge Aries (135-2V) and the Ford Fairmont (140-2V). The scores for the various assessment categories are provided. The vehicle dynamics score is the average time in seconds that the vehicle required to complete the 12 laps of the pursuit course; the acceleration score is the time in seconds that the vehicle required to reach a speed of 100 mph; the brake deceleration score is the average deceleration rate; the ergonomics and communications score is the total point value assigned to the vehicle on the score sheet; and the fuel economy score is the city mileage estimate published by the Environmental Protection Agency in miles per gallon. Most of the test results are presented in summary form; however, certain of the detailed data are appended. The bid adjustment information calculated by the Michigan State Police is included as an example of a method for comparing bids.