Which do you guys prefer, the “early” second generation (1998-2002) or the final version (2003-11)?

Since the early second Gen panthers have a considerably different chassis and factory setup, I’ve always considered the 98-02 Crown Vic to be a sort of early second generation, proceeding the final design. I wanted to see what the panther community thinks about the early second generation models that didn’t have rack and pinion steering or coil-over front suspension, as opposed to the final design. I’ve only ever driven my ‘02 so I don’t know how mine compares to the later models handling wise. I was hoping someone who has owned and driven both could offer some into which they prefer if any! Cheers