The first generation Mercury Grand Marquis was introduced for the 1979 model year. For the first three years of production, the Grand Marquis was considered to be a trim level for the Mercury Marquis, but starting in 1983, it became a separate model. The first generation Grand Marquis was offered as a coupe, sedan, or station wagon, and was powered by a 4.9L V8 engine, with a 5.8L V8 joining the range in 1986. Production of the first generation Grand Marquis ended in 1991, with the model replaced by the Second Generation Mercury Grand Marquis.