I drive a 2003 6cyl, perfect for my needs. Most reviews of the 2004 remark that it's a bit sluggish for 300hp due to the 500+ lbs extra weight . I wouldn't want to drive my 200hp with 500lbs extra all the time . So what good is the six for the 2004 even if it's redesigned ? Besides I thought that if you want a heavy duty truck you got the Superduty.

 

I dont know about the six in 2004 - good question. I have always bought in on the biggest V-8, for a couple of reasons. One thing, when I put 500# of deer corn in the back of my truck, I always enjoy the 'feel' while driving (to my hunting lease, hehehe). But, of course they've stiffened the frame and suspension, so I don't know what the relative comparison will be till I drive my '04 home!!

Here's why I buy the big V-8. I tow a 22 foot boat. But, more importantly, I am one of those people who think the accelerator gets you out of more tight spots while driving than the brakes. When gettin' on a freeway ramp, I want to be going faster than the cars merging with me at freeway speeds. I ain't gonna be one of those hitting the brakes on the 'on' ramp. And lastly, the math.

At 15,000 miles a year @ 15 MPG (that's what my 01 Screw w/the 5.4 gets), at $1.50 a gallon, I'll spend $125/mo on gas. With a six (what, 20 mpg?) I'd spend $95/mo on gas. For $30 a month, [a dollar a day! for all you sales folks!], give me the advantages of the biggest, baddest V-8 Ford puts out!

As far as the six on the new 04's your good question remains unanswerd...

 

There will be no V6 offereing in the new '04 model. Possibly '05. Also, no manual transmission to either the 4.2L or 4.6L initially.

If you have a V6, it probalby isn't the heaviest model availible. Compare a Lariat with power seats, slider, moonroof, and heavier leather to a modest XL or stripped XLT and there could be 200 pounds different with the same cab configuration. Also, 2wd is about 300 pounds lighter and has less drivetrain loss.