1997-2004 Ford F-150: Road Test

Ford's base V6 engine is noisy at idle, and grows raucous under hard throttle. Acceleration is adequate only in lighter-weight models with little cargo aboard. Both V8 engines are smoother and more powerful, but don't offer quite as much low-speed muscle as the bigger overhead-valve V8 from GM and Dodge. For most applications, a V8 is the wiser choice--and the bigger, the better. For most light-duty work, however, the 4.6-liter would suffice. It feels lively when accelerating from a standstill (at least with an empty cargo bed), but is a little short of power when you punch the gas quickly in the 25-40 mph range--especially in a heavier model. Passing response is ample at highway speeds, however. An F-150 SuperCab 4x4 averaged only 12.5 mpg in a mix of city and highway driving, and managed 16.2 mpg on a highway journey. On the highway, an F-150 delivers a stable and comfortable ride, with little of the bounciness or pitching that's common to most pickups. When going through bumpy pavement, the suspension absorbs the worst of the rough stuff. In addition, the rear axle resists juddering even when the cargo bed is empty. Wind and road noise are moderate for a pickup truck. Depending on the model and option package--and there's a vast selection available--interior furnishings range from stark to utterly luxurious. All F-150s have a modern, convenient dashboard with handy controls. Cupholders pop out from the dashboard, and large map pockets are mounted on doors. Head, leg, and shoulder room up front are generous. Because 4WD models sit high off the ground, entry and exit demand more effort than in the 2WD versions. The SuperCab's passenger-side rear door makes life easier. You get plenty of head room but marginal leg space in the rear seat. Getting into the back is definitely easier with the 1999 SuperCab's rear half-doors. And the 2001 SuperCrew is plenty roomy and comfortable for three adults, with a high step in but large crew-cab door openings.

Value for the Money
All told, we rate the latest F-150 tops in its class, even with the arrival of new challengers for 1999: the redesigned Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra.