The car’s 5.0-liter V-8 its a superb engine, whether you’re trying to get somewhere in a hurry, or just cruising in laidback comfort. The gas pedal offers some travel to play with, so you aren’t chirping the tires at every stoplight. Step hard on the pedal, though, and the Equus will happily launch forward with urgency. It accelerates smoothly, even when done fast, and the little bit of engine noise that makes its way to your ears sounds robust and sonorous, never harsh or loud. The attached eight-speed automatic transmission helps to change gears quickly and smoothly, without interrupting the linear feel of the acceleration.