2004 Ford E-Series

Most powertrains are carryover for 2004 and vary depending on whether you purchase an E-150 or E-350 Super Duty Wagon (there are no E-250 Wagons). For the E-150, the standard 191-horsepower 4.2-liter OHV V-6 is replaced this year with a new-as-standard 225-horsepower 4.6-liter SOHC V-8. Optional is a 255-horsepower 5.4-liter SOHC V-8. If you plan to use the E-150 for towing, then you'll want to jump to the 5.4-liter V-8. Both the 4.6-liter and 5.4-liter are able engines that run smooth and operate on 87-octane gasoline. Maximum towing capacity for the E-150 with the 5.4-liter engine is 6,800 pounds, when properly equipped.


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 standard engine in the E-350 Super Duty is the same 5.4-liter V-8 that serves as E-150's top engine. Optional upgrades include a 305-horsepower 6.8-liter SOHC V-10 and a new-for-2004 235-horsepower 6.0-liter Power Stroke d 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. The maximum towing capacity for the E-350 Wagon is 10,000 pounds, when properly equipped. Both the E-150 and E-350 Super Duty come equipped with four-speed automatic overdrive transmissions. A new 5-speed automatic TorqShift transmission is standard with the 6.0-liter diesel. Four-wheel ABS is standard on both vehicles, as is a Class I trailer tow package. Class II/ III/IV trailer tow package is available as an option on both.


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 Super Duty handles and rides like a smaller vehicle. And, while 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 $24,520 MSRP for an E-150 Wagon with the 4.2-liter V-6, and top out just under $40,000 MSRP for a fully loaded E-350 Super Duty XLT Extended Wagon. (www.fordvehicles.com)