2003 Ford E-Series

All powertrains carry over for 2003 and vary depending on whether you purchase an E-150 or E-350 Wagon (there are no E-250 Wagons). For the E-150, these include the standard 191-horsepower 4.2-liter OHV V-6, a 225-horsepower 4.6-liter SOHC V-8 ($750) and a 255-horsepower 5.4-liter SOHC V-8 ($1550). Moving up to the 4.6-liter V-8 is a wise move, but if you plan to use the E-150 for towing, then you'll want to jump all the way to the 5.4-liter V-8. Both are able engines that run smooth and operate on 87-octane gasoline. Towing capacity for the E-150 with the 5.4-liter engine is 6,500 pounds.


Moving up to the E-350 Super Duty Wagon offers the ability to haul heavier loads thanks to larger engines and a one-ton chassis. The base engine in the E-350 is the same 5.4-liter V-8 that serves as E-150's top engine. Upgrades include a 305-horsepower 6.8-liter SOHC V-10 ($700) and a 215-horsepower 7.3-liter Turbo Diesel V-8. Both the V-10 and the diesel have positive and negative attributes. The V-10 offers more power, which can be good for towing. However, if you drive a lot of miles, you may want to consider the diesel. While it does give up 90 horsepower to the V-10, you can expect about 20 percent better fuel economy with the diesel, which can save a significant amount of money over time. But, keep in mind that like most diesels the 7.3-liter Ford is noisier than the V-10. The maximum towing capacity for the E-350 Wagon is 10,000 pounds. Both the E-150 and E-350 come equipped with four-speed automatic transmissions with the units used in the E-350 being beefier. ABS braking is standard on both vehicles, as is a Class I trailer hitch. Class II, III and IV hitch packages are available as options on both.

The E-Series Wagon is available in five different seating options accommodating up to 15 occupants.

While the outward appearance of the E-Series Wagon is that of a hard-to-manage behemoth, spending time behind the wheel dispels that notion. Once on the road, you do realize that you're driving a large vehicle, especially in the city where parking can be a problem. However, on the highway, even the E-350 handles and rides like a much smaller vehicle.


Even though commercial usage of the E-Series far outnumbers that of private buyers, it's still a great family vehicle. If you routinely haul six or more people, then you may want to consider the E-Series Wagon as an alternative to large SUVs. Pricing begins at $24,515 for an E-150 Wagon with the 4.2-liter V-6, and top out just under $40,000 for a fully loaded E-350 Super Duty XLT Extended. (www.fordvehicles.com)