Looking to get back into an Explorer..Opinions?

[MadScotsMan]

Okay, if I can get rid of my Subaru, I am looking at the following vehicles and i would like opinions, pros/cons, what to look for etc.
#1 1998 Limited, 5.0, 63,000 miles AWD, Exceptional condition.
#2 2001 Sport, 4.0, 90,000, 4WD needs windshield and there's small hole in the front bumper cover.
The Sport is about $1700 cheaper than the Limited.

My concerns about the Limited are v-8 mileage and its AWD vs 4wd. I live in the boonies and it gets pretty rough from November-April (snow/mud season) and I will need go off-road on occasion.

Thoughts and/or opinions are greatly appreciated.

 

[LONO100]

you are making it alright where you live in your subaru and its awd right? so i guess it would come down to whether you would like the extra room of a 4 door or the smaller size of a 2 door. and whether you would prefer the v8 over the v6. the 4.0 v6 motors arent very powerful at all if that makes a difference to you as well. good luck on your choice and post pics if you get one!

 

[Joe Dirt]

4.0L SOHC: 205HP
5.0L OHV: 215 HP

I would buy on size and access to the back seats. I've had both, and like the 4-door MUCH better than the Sport. Rides a little better, too.

Both engines will be about the same MPG. Their difference in MPG is well within personal driving style differences. I get better MPG out of my V8 than I got in any of my V6's.

The V8 will be a full time AWD, the V6 will have Auto, and high and low range if that matters. The V8 will have a bit of a beefier drivetrain. Either will be great in the snow.

 

[MadScotsMan]

Subaru

I love the 'ru but it is apparent that it is waaay too low for where I live. Plus, I am driving more to my dad's place which is pretty remote. That is why I am looking to change vehicles. If anyone know anybody who needs a Subaru, let me know! Thanks for the input.

 

[Joe Dirt]

SHAZAM!

 

[MadScotsMan]

Wow.

SHAZAM!

 

[BrianDye]

I get better MPG out of my V8 than I got in any of my V6's.

Ive had a 92, two 95's (One 4 door, one sport), and my '00 Limited 5.0 AWD. The 5.0 gets better gas mileage out of all them.

I say go for the Limited. (Not only because I have one , but because the 5.0 drivetrain is very durable compared to the 4.0.

I have a set of Firestone Destination A/T tires on mine, and with the AWD, they kick ass in the winter! I havent got stuck yet. Plus the 5.0 is just way cooler in general, and sounds better.

 

[MadScotsMan]

My '05 Leggy

Nice 'ru, zero ground clearance...

That is why I'm looking for a new one. Both the ones I was looking at are sold, so I'm still on the hunt.