Buying a new Explorer - need tribal knowledge

[Roadking]

In my search for a new(er) 3rd gen Explorer I have driven ‘04’s and ‘05’s and they seem pretty much the same to me. If I were driving blindfolded (bad idea) I couldn’t tell which was which. I looked through a Consumer Reports magazine the other day and it listed the 05’s as having a much better drive train. What did they change in the ’05 drive train to take it from worst to best?

I’m looking at a ’04 XLT with the standard equipment, 20k miles and a V6 (wish it had the V8!), would anyone be willing to share about what they paid for a similar unit, '04 or '05? All these Explores have been sitting on the lots since spring, I have to think these dealers would be offering some great deals to move these down the road.
Thanks for the help.

 

[unclemeat]

05, basic trim package, about $23,000 new after incentaves. It also has the traction control. I don't know about the stronger drive train. Early gen IIIs did have a rear end gear problem. I believe that by 04 it was corrected from the factory.