Mercury first used the Grand Marquis name to designate the top trim level for the Mercury Marquis. In 1979, Mercury adjusted their model lineup, shifting the Marquis downmarket, and leaving the Grand Marquis as the flagship. Until 1982, the Grand Marquis was considered a trim level, but for 1983, it became its own model. The Grand Marquis was built in four generations: 1st Gen (1979-1991), 2nd Gen (1992-1997), 3rd Gen (1998-2002), and 4th Gen (2003-2011).