There isn't a big difference between a 97-98 5.4L and a 99 4.6L V-8, other than about 29 extra lb/ft of torque, which isn't a lot. Percentage wise, the 5.4 of the 97-98 era produces about 10% more torque than a 1999 - present 4.6L. Today's 5.4 produces 350 lb./ft which is a 20% difference..

That's what I was trying to say.. You don't really have to get the 5.4 if cost is a concern....

Torque makes a difference when it comes down to acceleration, load handling and towing. It's that force that throws you back into the seat under heavy acceleration (Felt profoundly in a sports car), from a dead stop.

The 5.4 wins this competition from 1999 - 2002, hands down- But if you can get a 1999 Expy 4.6 for the same price as a 1998 Expy with the 5.4, I would take the 1999 since that is the year the Expy's got a power boost.

But, if you are going to be regularly towing upwards of 7,000 lbs... The 5.4 may be an (Ever so slightly) better choice in the long run.

But in day-to-day non-towing/occasional towing life, the 4.6 will do the job, and won't hit your pocket book as hard on gas.

 

Thanks everyone for your thorough and thoughtful advice! My broker may have found a good one for me; we'll know for sure tomorrow. I'll keep you posted, and surely will keep coming back, if you all don't mind!

Julie

 

I know this is a little late but maybe someone may benefit from it. I found this PDF on Ford.com and does a pretty good basic explaination of towing equipment and procedures.

Click Here: http://www.fleet.ford.com/products/r...02_default.asp

and then click on chapters 12 - 15.

Hope this helps.

 

Thanks G8R, this is great!

Julie