2004 Ford SVT F-150 Lightning

Underhood is a 5.4-liter SOHC V-8, suitably pumped up with a supercharger and Intercooler, and cranking out 380 hp and 450 lb.-ft. of torque.

This kind of instant performance gratification doesn't come for free. It's not terribly expensive, and you could put one in your driveway for less than thirty-five grand-and make a lot of other guys at least a little jealous. It's pretty over the top, both in looks and capability, and to make an F-150 handle as well as it does, there is a penalty paid in ride quality. Going down the road it feels like a hot rod, stiff and hunkered down and all beefed up, so the ride is bouncy, harsh business. That may be fun for some, just okay for others and might quickly get pretty tiring for some, especially in areas where the snow, ice and 18-wheelers beat the living daylights out of the pavement, or where the year is described as having two seasons: "Winter" and "Construction." The ride issue would be a matter of personal preference, of course, but you might want to think about it during your test drive at your friendly local Ford dealer.


On the other hand, where else can you get a pickup that the manufacturer claims will make 142 miles per hour? (www.svt.ford.com)