I was wondering, will the new (heavier) trucks with the 4.6L engines be lacking in "get up and go" compared to the 97-03 models with the same engine? Just a thought.

 

Excellent question, considering most will probably have the smaller V8.
Recent articles talk so much about the new engine (5.4L) and its ability to tow, completely neglecting covering the new trucks compatibility with the 4.6L engine

 

Comparing a 2003 with 4.6L/auto to a 2004 4.6L/auto, the 2004 will be slower. Noticable? Depends how you drive. But don't you have the 4.2L now and a stick? A 2004 4.6L/auto may feel about the same as that.

therealist, I don't think the majority of 04 models will have the 4.6L. The FX4 and Lariat include it standard. The product mix is plit about in the middle of XLT. All STX are 4.6L and XL is mostly 4.6L. I would say about half of the new trucks sold will be 5.4L's. I honestly think people are going to test drive a 4.6L and be very disapointed, especially if they are coming from a current style F-150.

 

I'd better start saving for that 5.4L then!

 

An $800 upgrade is a no brainer. I wouldn't even consider the 4.6L. Some people, on the other hand, don't care.

 

Now I love my 4.6, but in the 2004, I would definitely go with the 5.4. There has been a ton of R&D on this engine, and with the added weight of the 2004, you're gonna NEED the 5.4. Just my $0.02.

 

Thanks guys, thats pretty much wat I thought. I'd much rather have the 3V 5.4L anyway. Besides it's only a $795 option. That would go pretty damn good on a 2wd reg cab XLT with a flareside bed!

 

But at least now you have the option to choose 3.73 gears,which should help with the 4.6.

 

Excluding Tahoe's- I've never had trouble passing anything else on the stret or highway. The 4.6L will do fine.

If you drive a truck (Other than the Lightning, Dakota RT, Ram SRT-10, or something) you're slow... Period.

That little .9 seonds you gain in the 1/4 mile by getting the 5.4L is negligible... Where the 5.4L pays off is at trade-in- however, you'll pay way more in gas, than you will get back on a trade...

4.6 is enough.

 

You sure have (2) GREAT looking rides!

 

Bighersh,

Your post made me think twice about the 4.6. I don't tow anything. And I don't drag race....much. And I would like to save a little on gas money thru the month. So I say, why not go with the 4.6? I'll have lower monthly payments, more mpg, less fuel cost, plus I'll have a tried and true reliable engine. Sure, it'll have a little less power than the 5.4, but it's a truck....not a pro- stock drag car. With 231 hp and 293 lb.-ft. of torque, that will be enough to suit my needs.

 

I have seen the expected gas mileage #'s for the 5.4 3v and the 4.6 will get the same mileage as the 5.4 3v. At least that is what they are saying. It could be a mistake...

Here is the link...

http://www.ford-trucks.com/news/2003/news2003-22.html

Sorry about the use of a different forum. Look for the line labeled 'F-150 (P221)' Code for new 04 truck.

 

I have already had a chance to "play" with the 2004 and I do not think you will be disappointed. The new 5.4 3v, fly by wire set up should inpress with its ball park 300 hp

 

ya know, i'm curious how much room is under the hood of the new o4's.... a little playing with a cold air kit, a super chip, and possibly a blower......you could have some fun with it!!!!!!!

 

kldake,

That's a very interesting spec sheet. It shows 15 city, 19 hwy for both the 4.6L and the 5.4L.

I'll just have to drive both of them, and see if there is a big difference. But I'll problably get the 4.6L, considering I have to find a house to rent at about the same time I get to buy a truck. If money only grew on trees!