was included as part of the Marquis model range, with Mercury offering a non-woodgrain Marquis station wagon. Third generation (1979–1982) For the 1979 model year, Mercury introduced the third-generation Marquis, marking the first ground-up redesign of the full-size range since 1969. Trading places with the Cougar as the longest Mercury vehicle, the Marquis shed 17 inches in length and over 1,000 pounds in curb weight (in comparison to its 1978 predecessor). For the first time since 1955, the full-size Mercury station wagon was produced with a curb weight under 4,000 pounds. While downsizing of the Marquis resulted in an exterior footprint closer in size to the intermediate Cougar (prior to its downsizing for 1980), the model line saw an increase in overall interior space (through a taller roofline and redesigned seats); a significant increase in glass area contributed to improved outward visibility. For 1983, Mercury rebranded its entire full-size line under the Grand Marquis nameplate; under minor revisions, the design was produced through the 1991 model year. Chassis specifications The third-generation Marquis is based upon the rear-wheel drive Ford Panther platform. An all-new design developed for the downsizing of full-size product ranges for all three Ford Motor Company divisions, the architecture is an evolution of the previous-generation chassis (introduced in 1969). For the first time in the history of the division, the full-size Mercury shared a common wheelbase with Ford, with both the Marquis and Ford LTD using a wheelbase; reduced from the previous (or from for station wagons). For 1980, the Panther chassis was also adopted by Lincoln, introducing a downsized Lincoln Continental (Town Car from 1981) and the Continental Mark VI. The Panther architecture underwent several design revisions over previous-generation designs. While the double-wishbone independent front suspension was largely unchanged, the live rear axle was changed from a 3-link to a 4-link layout (all four wheels were supported by coil springs). Due to cost considerations, the optional anti-lock brake system and four-wheel disc brakes were dropped in favor of upgraded front disc brakes; power brakes were standard. Powertrain The third-generation Marquis marked the introduction of a powertrain lineup completely new to the model line. In the interest of fuel economy, the 351M, 400, and 460 V8 engines were replaced by smaller-displacement engines shared with smaller vehicles within the Mercury line. In contrast with its Chrysler and General Motors competitors, the Marquis retained a V8 engine as standard equipment.