I am looking to purchase an new F150 or Mark LT from the US. Does getting a vehicle with California emission's system have any affect on the engine's performance / horsepower?

 

It's unlikely there's any real performance differences. I think those days are over, but not 100% sure.

Is the dollar up your way that much stronger these days, that you'd buy in the US and drive the truck home?

 

The fact that our dollar is nearly = to the American helps, but vehicles are simply cheaper in the US than Canada. A loaded Mark LT in the US has a MSRP of about $49000 while it is $57000 in Canada. The auto manufacturers are offering more incentives to bring some parity, but I hear stories all the time of people buying a vehicle in the US and saving $10000+ over the best available deal in Canada....even after shipping and other fees.