Ford Econoline: specifications, tuning, reviews

The history of Ford International begins in 1960. It was then that his first model was presented to the world. Since that time, more than six million (!) Minibuses have come out to light, which, in the main, have been in demand in North America.

Start of release

In the sixties in the US, rear-wheel-drive minibuses from the Ford E-Series intensively gained popularity. They became famous for their undoubted comfort, which, in its level, corresponded to what the cars of that time could offer.

Time passed, production was improved. Despite numerous upgrades, Ford Econoline continued to be utilitarian in its design. And in 1992 the world saw new, comfortable minibuses for 7, 8, 12 and 15 seats. Also there were 4-door vans with a body, which was mounted on a large frame spar. Suspension in these models, too, were quite powerful: behind the spring, and ahead independent.

New interior

In the early 90's it was decided to update and interior. "Ford Econoline" has become even more comfortable. If the dashboard used to be angular before, and the console looked more like a chest of drawers, then after restyling everything began to look more harmonious.

Also new options have been added. After 1992, the basic equipment was airbags and belts, adjustable in height. Also there were two-folded swing doors with external hinges.

Salon - this is generally the main advantage of this car. It is wide, spacious, light, comfortable. Inside, passengers can move absolutely calmly. Another advantage is a good air conditioning, heating and ventilation system. Also inside there is a sofa, the size of which is 175 by 173 cm. If it is decomposed, then it will not interfere with other passengers. And also this car has a large trunk.

Specifications

Cars Ford Econoline were equipped with 4-speed automatic machines. 5-speed "mechanics" also set, but only under the order.

The generation that appeared after 1992 was provided in three series. The first - E-150, the second - E-250, the third - E-350, respectively. The wheelbase was the same for all (3505 mm). Even potential buyers had the opportunity to order an extended version. At such models the wheelbase reached 4470 mm.

Ford Econoline pleases its load-carrying capacity. It ranges from 429 to 1970 kilograms. In length, the car reaches 5382 millimeters, in height - 2050 mm. There are options and larger - 5890 and 2118 mm, respectively. The width, however, each version is the same - 2014 mm.

Initially, the models were offered with four different engines. 4.9-liter was the least powerful. He produced only 150 hp. Following the power was a 5-liter, 195-strong. Still there was a variant on 5.8 l. This unit could boast 210 "horses". And, finally, the last, the most impressive. 7.5 liters of volume and 245 hp. The last three, by the way, are the V-shaped "eight". And all the units are very voracious. The notorious "Eight", for example, spend at least 14 liters per 100 "urban" kilometers. Considering the fact that a lot of time has passed since the release, now for sure the expense has become even greater.

Further changes

In 1995, the model Ford Econoline was offered with other engines under the hood. There are new motors of the Triton family. The best was the V-shaped "ten". It was the first such engine in the world. Its volume was 6.8 liters, and the power reached 268 "horses". A minibus with such an assembly under the hood was accelerated to a hundred less than ten seconds! True, the maximum speed was only 160 km / h.

Still there was a 4.2-liter 203-hp V6 and two V8 engines: one for 4.6 l (223 hp) and the other for 5.4 l (238 hp).

Ford Econoline 150 Club Wagon: comfort

This car is worth considering as an example, because it was one of the most popular in the entire series. And no wonder. After all, this is a full-size luxury-class van, enjoyed incredible fame in the early nineties. Under his hood was a 4.9-liter engine. The model itself was produced in different versions. There was a cash collection van, a delivery van, and even a "house on wheels". And the last option, of course, was the most famous. What are his characteristics?

"Ford Econoline" in this version is very spacious and convenient. To ensure that a person got to the driver's seat absolutely unhindered, the manufacturers created a step. The salon, it should be noted, looks attractive: all panels are made of wood. Still there are original lamps that do not at all resemble plafonds, to which all have long been accustomed.

Each seat has a seat belt. Even on a folding sofa made of leather, they are available. And in the side left wall designers have built in a TV, TV tuner and VCR. In addition to the above, there is also a CD-changer with a car stereo.

What do the owners say?

Everyone who is interested in this or that car, necessarily reads reviews. "Ford Econoline" - a car that attracts many. And despite the rather large age of many models, cars from the Econoline series continue to be popular.

The owners claim that this minivan is good, first of all, its management. The gears are switched softly and smoothly, the car accelerates dynamically, and the steering is excellent thanks to the installed hydraulic booster. Also people celebrate the silence in the cabin. No noise, no vibrations.

Many owners decide on tuning. "Ford Econoline" can indeed be made more modern and spectacular. Most motorists start with light. First, change the head optics to the modern one. And then install powerful headlights, which illuminate almost half a kilometer ahead, and even integrate into the front bumper vertical diode lenses. Some even mount a winch inside the bumper, believing that without this attribute, no SUV has the right to be called that. By the way, experts advise to install a pneumatic suspension. It significantly softens the ride on the bumps, making the driving process even more enjoyable. And the driver will be more comfortable.

In general, tuning is not a problem. The main thing is to entrust it to professionals. If there is no experience necessary for this, it is not worth taking on one's own for such a thing.