The maximum cargo capacity of the E-150 amounts to 6,697 liters (236.5 cubic feet). That's 12 percent less than similar models from GM, which can hold up to 7,570 liters (267.3 cubic feet).
Compared to the Savana and Express, however, the E-150 boasts superior payload and towing capacities, not to mention a higher Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). The "standard" Dodge Sprinter 2500 has a similar GVWR, lower towing capacity as well as higher payload and cargo volume. Naturally, the extra girth of the Sprinter is not suited for every customer -- the low-roof model is even taller and longer than the E-150.
On the road...
When you hit the road, the E-150 shows clear signs of age. The steering is light and often lacks precision, while the significant turning radius (wider than the Chevy's despite the longer body of the latter) makes parking maneuvers harder, especially in tight spots. Even the Sprinter 2500, which sits on a longer wheelbase, fares better than the Ford E-150 in parking lots.
Lateral visibility is another concern. The ultra-low driver's seat and lack of a fish eye on the outside mirrors (as tested) are mainly responsible. Telescopic towing mirrors are optionally available -- yet standard on all competing vans.
On the plus side, Ford offers a reverse sensing system. This optional device alerts the driver when slowly backing toward an object (less than 6 feet away) or when parallel parking, beeping more rapidly as you get closer. Whether it will actually help typical cargo van drivers is anyone's guess...
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| Some 2008 models rely on basic mirrors with no fish eye like this one. |
Compared to the Savana and Express, however, the E-150 boasts superior payload and towing capacities, not to mention a higher Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). The "standard" Dodge Sprinter 2500 has a similar GVWR, lower towing capacity as well as higher payload and cargo volume. Naturally, the extra girth of the Sprinter is not suited for every customer -- the low-roof model is even taller and longer than the E-150.
On the road...
When you hit the road, the E-150 shows clear signs of age. The steering is light and often lacks precision, while the significant turning radius (wider than the Chevy's despite the longer body of the latter) makes parking maneuvers harder, especially in tight spots. Even the Sprinter 2500, which sits on a longer wheelbase, fares better than the Ford E-150 in parking lots.
Lateral visibility is another concern. The ultra-low driver's seat and lack of a fish eye on the outside mirrors (as tested) are mainly responsible. Telescopic towing mirrors are optionally available -- yet standard on all competing vans.
On the plus side, Ford offers a reverse sensing system. This optional device alerts the driver when slowly backing toward an object (less than 6 feet away) or when parallel parking, beeping more rapidly as you get closer. Whether it will actually help typical cargo van drivers is anyone's guess...
 |
| When you hit the road, the E-150 shows clear signs of age. |