Used 2007 Ford E150 Super Duty Cargo

Whether you own a business, are responsible for shuttling an army of people or just enjoy hitting the open road in a custom conversion camper, there is a Ford E-Series Van that can get the job done. With a wide number of configurations and a choice between three gasoline V8s and one diesel engine, the E-Series continues to tackle the missions too big for the average pickup or SUV. Available in half, three-quarter and one-ton models, the E-Series continues to offer the kind of durable and reliable work van upon which American businesses have come to rely.

Driving an E-Series Van is somewhat like piloting a big SUV, only there is a bit more rear overhang. Ford has done a good job making sure that certain aspects of the E-Series are not as gargantuan as the rest of the vehicle, such as placing the door handles down low so you don’t have to reach up to operate them.

In a nod to better visibility, the lower edge of the side glass extends far down the van’s side, giving the passengers a good view in all directions and allowing the driver to see objects that might not appear in the sideview mirrors. The steering is moderately dampened to give the driver some sense of the road, and the ride is fairly smooth when the vehicle is fully loaded.

Ford has done a good job minimizing the vastness of the E-Series’ instrument panel, at least from the driver’s point of view. It’s still a reach to access the audio and climate controls, but redundant controls on the steering wheel greatly reduce the number of times you’ll need to stretch your arm. Seating in the passenger van versions now includes 11- and 14-passenger configurations with an open center isle.

Though it has undergone extensive reworking over the years, the E-Series still retains the same basic shape that has defined Ford vans since the late 1970s. Large flush-mounted side glass provides an excellent view from within. The panel vans make wonderful conversion projects and come with a long list of optional fittings to make the job easier for the contractor.

Rack System
A new QuietFlex rack system provides quieter operation coupled with greater flexibility.

Turbo Diesel
The 6.0-liter turbo diesel is quieter and more powerful than Ford’s previous diesel offering.

The base E-150 XL includes a 225-horsepower V8, four-speed automatic transmission, air conditioning, four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes (ABS), dual side mirrors, dual 12-volt outlets, swing-out side doors, AM/FM stereo, eight-passenger seating, tilt wheel, intermittent wipers and power steering. The XLT trim adds chrome bumpers, six-speaker stereo with CD, dual cloth captain’s chair seating, cruise control and power windows, mirrors and door locks.

Options include a 255-horsepower 5.4-liter V8, a 305-horsepower 6.8-liter Triton V10 and a 235-horsepower 6.0-liter Power Stroke turbo diesel. Also on the list are a number of seating configurations, rear air conditioning, CD player, aluminum wheels, sliding side door, telescopic side mirrors, power driver’s seat, a trailer towing package and the luxurious Chateau package. Another appealing option is the Masterack work bin storage system, which includes steel shelving, drawers and cabinets.

The E-Series offers a strong line of engine choices, with the base V8 delivering good power and torque for the standard wheelbase models. Extended-length E-250 and E-350 models offer a choice of powerplants, including the Triton V10 and the Power Stroke V8 turbo diesel. While there is no denying the Power Stroke’s ability to tow, the added premium of over $5,000 is difficult to justify, especially when the V10 offers more horsepower and nearly identical maximum torque, though at a higher rpm.

4.6-liter V8
225 horsepower @ 4800 rpm
286 lb.-ft. of torque @ 3500 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 14/18

5.4-liter V8
255 horsepower @ 4500 rpm
350 lb.-ft. of torque @ 2500 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 13/17

6.8-liter V10
305 horsepower @ 4250 rpm
420 lb.-ft. of torque @ 3250 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: NA

6.0-liter V8 Turbo Diesel
235 horsepower @ 3300 rpm
440 lb.-ft. of torque @ 2000 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: NA