The Explorer has been tried as a police vehicle in the past. With a top speed under 100, I easily outran one while street racing in a 1977 Cadillac 10 years ago. Nowadays, I wouldn't want to try that. This is the newest Youngstown State University Police vehicle, with reflective-only graphics meant to show up under lights, but not while the vehicle patrols.
These are becoming more common as the Crown Vics are no longer available and departments increase vehicle turnover. I've seen several around, so be cautious. How do you spot an unmarked one? Steel wheels, and lots of black plastic. It's not easy, and I haven't seen enough to compare them to the public-consumption model. Ford is trying hard to market their new Interceptors as better than the old Vics, but they will be a tough sell as people don't like to change. The Explorer/Interceptor SUV comes with 304 hp or a twin turbo 365 hp V6, so I wouldn't like to try to outrun one now, even though I would bet the top speed is not great. Take heed, study the pictures, and beware the plain Ford Explorers.
