Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC)
Power
Combined, EPA 1993
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Sentiment is overwhelmingly nostalgic and positive, with owners expressing deep affection for the vehicle's comfort, classic styling, and V8 engine character.
8 problems reported (5 recurrent, 3 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- RecurrentLean Burn electronic ignition/carburetion system failures
Cited as problematic, unreliable, and "cursed" in early 1980s models.
- RecurrentAutomatic transmission failures
Multiple reports of transmissions failing, needing replacement, or being a known weak point; one owner reported a 1992 New Yorker Fifth Avenue going through four transmissions under warranty.
- RecurrentRust
Specifically mentioned as the "biggest issue" on these cars, affecting brake/fuel lines, floor pans, door bottoms, and the base of the windshield.
+ 5 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentCarburetor and fuel system problems
Including cold start issues, stalling at idle, rough running, and vapor lock; attributed to sediment in fuel pump check valves, faulty mixture control solenoids, and general carburetor tuning difficulties.
- RecurrentVacuum leaks
Affecting idle quality and operation of HVAC systems.
- IsolatedHVAC system malfunctions
Heat working intermittently, blowing cold air randomly.
- IsolatedWater leaks into interior
Specifically under the dashboard on the passenger side during rain.
- IsolatedElectrical issues under dashboard
Including smoke emanating from under the dash in one report.
The version owners recommend
Insufficient owner data available to designate a single "best" model year. Feedback indicates that later models (mid-to-late 1980s, after the problematic early '80s Lean Burn system) are perceived as more reliable. The two-tone paint schemes are noted as being rare and desirable. The highest trim level with features like leather seats and the Mark Cross interior is specifically mentioned as being "really nice."
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the Lincoln Town Car, Cadillac Brougham/Eldorado, Mercury Grand Marquis, Ford Crown Victoria and Buick LeSabre/Riviera.
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Overall sentiment
Sentiment is overwhelmingly nostalgic and positive, with owners expressing deep affection for the vehicle's comfort, classic styling, and V8 engine character. The car is consistently described as extremely comfortable, with specific praise for its plush ride quality and luxurious interior appointments, including leather seats and shag carpeting in top trims. The 5.2L (318) V8 engine is noted for its strength and potential longevity with proper maintenance. However, this positive view is heavily tempered by widespread acknowledgment of significant reliability concerns, particularly with the factory carburetion and electronic ignition systems (specifically the Lean Burn system in early 1980s models), automatic transmissions, and susceptibility to rust. The vehicle is generally seen as a rewarding classic for enthusiasts willing to perform maintenance and repairs, but a potentially risky and unreliable choice for a daily driver or for an owner without mechanical aptitude.
Positioning vs competitors
Positioned as a full-size, rear-wheel-drive American luxury sedan from the Malaise Era, competing directly with the Lincoln Town Car and Cadillac Brougham. It is generally viewed as offering a comparable level of comfort and classic styling but is frequently cited as being less reliable and less durable than its contemporary Ford Panther platform rivals (Grand Marquis, Crown Victoria, Town Car). Several comparisons suggest that a 2003-and-newer Grand Marquis/Crown Victoria/Town Car would be "1000 times more reliable." The Chrysler is often seen as having a stronger enthusiast following for its specific styling and Mopar engine, but with higher ownership risk due to known powertrain and electrical issues.
Recommended configurations
Insufficient specific configuration data from owner discussions. Implied recommendations include: avoiding early-1980s models with the Lean Burn system; prioritizing vehicles with documented maintenance and minimal rust; and considering a "Lean Burn delete/ignition kit" for improved reliability on affected models. For performance modifications, swapping the stock 318 for a 360 V8 is a common suggestion for those seeking more power.
General recommendations
Suitable for classic car enthusiasts, hobbyists, and collectors who appreciate 1980s American luxury styling and are prepared for hands-on maintenance. Ideal as a second vehicle or weekend cruiser, not as a primary daily driver. Strongly NOT recommended for owners with limited mechanical knowledge, limited funds for repairs, or who require dependable daily transportation. Essential to have a backup plan for when the car is unavailable. A thorough pre-purchase inspection focusing on rust (especially in floors, door bottoms, and around the windshield), transmission health, and the condition of the fuel and ignition systems is critical. Purchase price should heavily reflect cosmetic and mechanical condition, with values ranging from a few hundred dollars for projects to several thousand for pristine, low-mileage examples.
Remarks
The community feedback spans two distinct vehicle generations under the "Fifth Avenue" name: the rear-wheel-drive M-body sedan (1980-1989) and the front-wheel-drive C-body New Yorker Fifth Avenue (1990-1993). The vast majority of discussion and reported issues pertain to the earlier, more iconic RWD models (especially 1983-1989). The notorious Lean Burn system was a major source of reliability problems in the very early 1980s, and its deletion or replacement is a common modification. While the 318 V8 is considered robust, the supporting fuel and ignition electronics of the era are a frequent failure point. These vehicles are now 30-40 years old, and owner experiences are dominated by the challenges and rewards of maintaining an aging classic, rather than evaluating a new vehicle's features. Analysis based on approximately 50 substantive owner discussions and inquiries.
Specifications
3.8i
162 hp
Built 1990–1993