Bottom Line Up Front
Police cars are not automatically equipped with bigger, faster engines – they use powertrains that balance torque, durability, and fuel economy for real‑world patrol work.
Do Police Cars Really Get Better Engines? The Truth Explained
Image: Do Police Cars Really Get Better Engines? The Truth Explained – Performance Comparison and Specifications
Design & Looks
Most modern U.S. police fleets use three main models. They look similar to their civilian siblings but have hidden upgrades.
- Ford Police Interceptor Utility – based on the Ford F‑150.
- Chevrolet Caprice PPV – a sedan version of the Chevrolet Impala.
- Dodge Charger Pursuit – a performance sedan tuned for police.
Performance & Mileage
The engines are chosen for low‑end torque, not just top speed. A typical Patrol V8 can pull a patrol car from 0‑60 mph in about 7 seconds, but the real work is cruising at 45‑65 mph for many hours.
- Ford uses a 3.5 L EcoBoost V6 that makes 400 hp and 470 lb‑ft of torque.
- Chevy sticks with a 6.2 L V8 delivering 395 hp and 410 lb‑ft.
- Dodge’s 3.6 L V6 produces 300 hp and 260 lb‑ft, while an optional 5.7 L Hemi V8 adds 370 hp.
Because police spend most time in stop‑and‑go traffic, EPA mileage numbers are similar to civilian versions – roughly 18‑20 mpg combined.
Price & Rivals
Police‑spec models cost more than a regular trim because of reinforced suspensions, upgraded cooling, and extra wiring for lights and radios.
- Ford Police Interceptor Utility starts around $38,000.
- Chevy Caprice PPV is about $35,000.
- Dodge Charger Pursuit starts near $33,000.
These prices compete with high‑end civilian SUVs and sedans that offer similar power.
| Engine | Mileage (mpg) | Price (USD) | Top Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3.5 L EcoBoost V6 (Ford) | 18‑20 | $38,000 |
|
| 6.2 L V8 (Chevy) | 18‑19 | $35,000 |
|
| 5.7 L Hemi V8 (Dodge) | 17‑19 | $33,000 |
|
FAQ
Do police cars have more horsepower than regular models?
Usually they have the same or slightly higher output, but the focus is on torque and durability, not just peak horsepower.
What is the typical fuel economy of a police car?
Most patrol vehicles get about 18‑20 mpg combined, which is close to the civilian version of the same model.
Are police cars worth buying as a civilian?
They can be a good deal because of the heavy‑duty parts, but they may have higher mileage and specialized equipment that not all buyers need.
What do you think about police car engines? Leave a comment below!
Source: Read Official News
