I think you should get a ( Police Package Crown Victoriaolder or newer, between 1998 and present). Hands down.
Dependable, for the most part. I couldn't compliain about my '94 at all. And the numerous upgrades (electric fan, better interior, better exterior, 140 amp alt stock) that the 2001 will have make it a much better car than my '94. THey look awesome in silver, black and the rare (ish) metallic blue. White, meh.. give or take...
They drive smoothly, are easy to work on, to install in, and are RARING for any kind of upgrades you can think of, save for HP mods over 150 horse... In which you need diff connecting rods and crankshaft. You can tighten up the steering with a modified mustang bushing/shock kit, as some don't like the loose steering after they have been driving smaller cars.
The reasons why I would choose a Crown Vic over many other cars:
You look like a cop, so nobody messes with you.
Cheap to obtain.
You can fit retardedly large sub boxes in the trunk. Upwards of 8-10 cubes.
They have stock dual exhaust which sounds extremely awesome if straightpiped, given you leave the catalytic converters on. To much backfiring w/o.
140+ mph stock.
Well sound deadened (in the cabin) from the start.
A backseat "you can get laid in." Though I never tried mine out...
Double DIN stereo mounting hole for that nice graphic eq you've always dreamed of but never could fit.
Gobs of aftermarket made to fit cop gear that is friggin sweet and for the most part legal (cages to restrain people in backseat{
I'm sorry for the long post, but if I had the cash, this is what I would roll in. WITHOUT QUESTION. I know you prolly like Chevy... And want a small car, it sounds like, but all I can say is:
Crown Vics are the teh best.