Ford Econoline

Ford Econoline in Nigeria

The Ford E-Series (a.k.a. Econoline) has been a mainstay on America's roadways since 1961, accounting for over half of all full-size passenger and cargo vans sold in the country. This rear-wheel-drive cargo van has long been a favorite of commercial fleets, independent contractors, and small businesses who need to carry products and equipment cheaply.

Lineup

The 2008 Ford Econoline Cargo lineup kicks off with the E-150, which, with a maximum payload rating of 3,340 pounds, should be more than enough for most clients. The E-250 and E-250 Extended, with 20 additional inches of length and 52 additional cubic feet of cargo area, are available for heavier-duty demands. The E-350 Super Duty and lengthier E-350 Super Duty Extended variants are available for people who genuinely need to maximize their hauling potential in a standard-issue full-size van.

Specification of this vehicle

Pros and cons of this vehicle

Pros

• Impressive payload capacity.
• Improved handling.
• Powerful gas and diesel engine options.
• Top-notch reliability.

Cons

• Weak standard V8s.
• Minimal safety features.
• Unwieldy maneuverability.
• Not as many configurations as the Dodge Sprinter.

Performance & mpg

Buyers of the E-Series cargo van can pick from four different engines, all of which deliver power to the rear wheels. On E-150 and E-250 models, the basic 4.6-liter V8 produces 225 horsepower and 286 pound-feet of torque. On these vehicles, a bigger 5.4-liter V8 with 255 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque is optional (and preferred), but standard on the E-350 Super Duty.

A four-speed automatic transmission is paired with these two gas V8 engines. A 6.8-liter V10 engine with 305 horsepower and 420 pound-feet of torque is available, as well as a more durable and fuel-efficient 6.0-liter Power turbodiesel V8 with 235 horsepower and 440 pound-feet of torque. A five-speed automatic transmission is paired with these larger optional engines.

Maximum towing capacities range from 6,000 pounds for a base E-150 to 10,000 pounds for an E-350 Super Duty with 4.10 gears and a V10 or diesel engine option. The GCWR of the Econoline Cargo ranges from 11,500 pounds on the E-150 to 20,000 pounds on a well-outfitted E-350 Super Duty.

Driving impression

We recommend the more powerful optional 5.4-liter gas V8 on the E-150 and E-250 variants since it takes a lot of oomph to get more than 2.5 tons going. Due to its higher torque and increased cruising range, we recommend the optional diesel V8 in the 2008 Ford E-350 Super Duty vans.

If you prefer a gasoline engine with plenty of power, Ford is the only manufacturer that provides a V10 in a full-size van. This year's E-Series has a better ride and handling dynamics, giving it a fresh sense of confidence on the road. Despite the changes to the chassis, this is still a large full-size vehicle with a large turning radius that can be difficult to maneuver in city traffic.

However, in a commercial vehicle, this is a minor problem, and it's comprehensible given a large number of equipment and goods this van can move in an enclosed and reasonably cost-effective manner.

Do you want one of the Ford Econoline?

The 2008 Ford Econoline Cargo, a best-seller with a reputation for dependability, has better handling dynamics this year, catching up to modern rivals from GM and Dodge. You can acquire yours for the best price at Cars45.