I want to know what experience any of you have with the redesigned Explorer.

I'm thinking of trading in our 5.0 AWD '98 Mountianeer for a new V8 4x4 2003 Explorer XLT.

What major parts does the new Explorer share with the '98 Mounty? Transfer case, trans,....? How does the 4.7 V8 hold up against the old school 5.0?

I currently have 96kmiles on the Mounty and it is starting to cost me $$$ on repairs. Since I still owe on the truck (bought used 3 years ago), I really don't want to dump any more $ into repairs when I can borrow Ford's money for free for 6 years and have a new X.

I guess I want to know if the 2003 X will hold up at least as well as the Mounty. I'm concerned about the rear suspension. I use the Mounty to tow a 3k lb trailer quite often and have not had any major trouble, but things like the CV joint on the front drive shaft, non working radio display, AC temp control, O2 sensor (that you cant get to!), broken EGR tube, emergency brake, and outside door handle have had me feed up with it.

My Dad has a 2002 Explorer limited. It has a dual independant suspension, and the ride is much much more smooth than my 96. It is also a little bit higher and longer. Also some of the technology in the limited is great like the radar backing up, heated seats (my favorite), and the computer which reminds you for scheduled checkups and stuff like that. Also the third row seat option is great for up to 8 people.

As far as engine power, I can't compare it to the old 5.0L V8. But the 4.6 definately is powerful. Last I checked the 0-60 times it was only a couple milliseconds off a V6 Accord and its faster than most of the I4 small cars. More than enough punch for towing.

edit: i also burned my friend in his escape:rolleyes:

[i] Last I checked the 0-60 times it was only a couple milliseconds off a V6 Accord and its faster than most of the I4 small cars. [/B]

You must be comparing it to the old 200 HP V6 Accords? The 4.6 is farely quick, but it won't keep up to the new 240 HP Accords....

Originally posted by kkreit01
You must be comparing it to the old 200 HP V6 Accords? The 4.6 is farely quick, but it won't keep up to the new 240 HP Accords....
240 HP Accords aren't that fast. Heck, I've beaten my friend's 200HP Accord before in my SOHC ;)

Get the 03' you wont de dissapointed! I have an 02' Ex V8 and I love it so much more than my 92' or my dads 99'. In comparison to the 5.0's the new 4.6 blows them away. You cant beat technology. Trust me the gains are incredible.

I have to say that I have no problem beating the new accords. A friends mom just bought one, not all that quick. In fact I beat a newer infinity Q45 last night, and have yet to lose to another SUV of any kind.

Originally posted by Big Green
I have to say that I have no problem beating the new accords. A friends mom just bought one, not all that quick. In fact I beat a newer infinity Q45 last night, and have yet to lose to another SUV of any kind.

You picked your battle wisely, my friend. I have never lost myself, but only because I never raced. :D

Dad actually had to sell his 02 V8 XLT and get a '98 V8 Mounty...

when he had the 02, he loved the 4.6 V8. The truck rode great, and pulled our small trailer with absolutely no problems. Dad got about the same mileage with his 4.6 as he did in his '99 XLT V8 and his '98 Mounty.

The truck is bigger and wider. We liked the width, but mom never liked the size of the vehicle. I personally prefer the size of the 2nd Gen's. The year that he had his 02, he really liked it though.

Let me get this straight, your dad gave up a newer truck (by 4 years!) with newer design because your mom thinks its too big?

Now thats what I call DEDICATION!!