2005 FORD ECONOLINE E150
1FMRE11WX5HB48467
SPORTS VAN 4.6L V8 FI
REAR WHEEL DRIVE
Vehicle Overview
Ford's full-size E-Series cargo-hauling Van and passenger-carrying Wagon gained electronic throttle control as a standard feature for 2005. A QuietFlex Racks and Bins system is available as a no-charge option.
A 4.6-liter V-8 is the base engine, and the van can be configured to have up to 15 seats.
Formerly called the Econoline, the rear-wheel-drive E-150 comes in only one size. Passenger versions are sold in XL, XLT and Chateau trim levels. Heavier-duty models � the three-quarter-ton E-250 and one-ton E-350 Super Duty � are also available.
(Skip to details on the: E-250 E-350 Super Duty)
Exterior
Offered in one length, both the E-150 Van and Wagon have a 138-inch wheelbase and stretch to 211.9 inches long overall. Swing-out 60/40-split doors are installed on the right side, but a sliding cargo door is available as a no-cost option. Swing-out doors are the only choice at the rear. The Chateau edition features aluminum wheels and running boards.
Interior
Aimed at commercial applications, the cargo-hauling Van is fitted with two bucket seats up front. Passenger models have seating for eight occupants on two front buckets and a pair of three-passenger bench seats. Captain's chairs in the Chateau version replace the center bench, reducing seating positions to seven. Cargo volume in the E-150 is 256.5 cubic feet. An optional cargo organizer can be installed behind the rear bench seat.
Under the Hood
Two engines are available for the E-150. The base engine is a 225-horsepower, 4.6-liter V-8. Stepping up a notch is a 255-hp, 5.4-liter V-8. Each drives a four-speed-automatic transmission. When properly equipped, the E-150 Van can tow as much as 6,900 pounds, which is 400 pounds more than the equivalent E-150 passenger Wagon.
Safety
All E-Series models have dual front airbags. Four-wheel all-disc antilock brakes and front seat belt pretensioners are standard. Side-impact airbags are not available.
Driving Impressions
After a few minutes behind the wheel, it's nearly possible to forget the E-150's truck origins. Engine drone is less noticeable than in Ford vans of the distant past. With relatively light steering, it maneuvers almost as easily as a smaller van. On the other hand, more effort is necessary when parking the van and when judging your position on the highway.
The 5.4-liter V-8 is strong enough to deliver satisfying and safe response. Ride quality is decent, but it's not as well cushioned as most minivans. Compared with many smaller vans, the E-150 needs more steering correction on straightaways, but it's reasonably stable. Drivers enjoy a commanding view and, despite the high stance, getting in and out isn't too difficult.�
E-250
Rated for heavier duty than the E-150, the E-250 Van has the same engine choices but comes in both regular and extended lengths. Extended vans are 20 inches longer overall but have the same 138-inch wheelbase; maximum cargo volume is 309.4 cubic feet. The maximum gross vehicle weight rating for the E-250 is 8,600 pounds, versus a 7,000-pound GVWR for the E-150. Passenger Wagons are not available in this series. �Back to top
E-350 Super Duty
During the 2004 model year, a 6.0-liter Power Stroke V-8 diesel rated at 235 hp and 440 pounds-feet of torque replaced the prior 7.3-liter diesel engine. Optional in the E-350, it mates with a five-speed TorqShift automatic transmission. The standard E-350 engine is a 5.4-liter V-8, but a 6.8-liter V-10 that generates 305 hp and 420 pounds-feet of torque can be installed.
Available in regular and extended lengths, the E-350 Super Duty has a maximum GVWR of 9,500 pounds. Cutaway versions are also available. The regular-length E-350 seats seven, eight, 11 or 12 people; extended-length vans seat 11, 12, 14 or 15 occupants.
For 2005, a new powertrain control module was installed that allows upfit capability for elevated idle speed in order to operate accessories. Back to top
