Econoline real world MPG?

[4WD School]

2004 E350 with V10

When I purchased my 2003 E350 extended length van, the 6.0 diesels were not offered yet.

I bought the V10 and have been very happy with it.

Like others, I get 14 - 15 mpg in mixed driving when the van is empty. I get 9mpg when towing an 8,000 lbs. trailer.

I have 87,000 miles on it with no problems at all.

The 7.3 diesels have a good reputation, but the 6.0 versions are reported to be a nightmare. That's why Ford has switched again.

I may not have the torque of a diesel when going uphill in the mountains, but I saved $5,000 by buying a gas engine. And, gas is cheaper to buy.

My diesel buddies get 3 mpg better mileage when towing, but pay 20 cents a gallon more for the fuel.

I'm happy with my choice...

 

[rcm89]

My 2002 Sportsmobile [7.3L PSD 3.55 rear, stock 245/75-16 size tires, typical traveling weight is 10300-10600 lbs] gave me consistent 18mpg [max of 19.8] until the US went to ultra low sulfur diesel, now I get a pretty consistent 16.5. It's the price we pay to clean the air. A couple times a year I use this van to tow a 12700 lb travel trailer...and that's where the diesel is worth the $5k [2002 prices] premium as well as any extra maintenance costs. I'll get 8-9mpg doing that. Yes, that's overloaded, but much has been done to mitigate that, like 6-wheel disc brakes on the trailer, extra-capacity transmission pan [8 qts bigger] and 14000 lb Pullrite hitch system. 97k miles on this van.

My 99 E-150 4.6L plain ol' window van [3.23 rear, 235/75-15 tires, with 750 lbs of power wheelchair and lift...chair and lift also included in the above SMB] will give me 24 mpg hwy at 55, 22 mpg at 70. Still running strong after 168k miles.