I'm told the 4x4 Excursions ride a bit higher than the RWDs.
Is that true? I'm interested in an
05 6.8 v10. Do the diesels ride any higher than the gases?

I need a BIG vehicle that can drive through an occasional
deep puddle here in South Florida. I travel in miserable heavy rains on the 95 several times per year (bad ponding).
Does the 05 4x4 6.8 fit the bill?
How does it compare to say, a 2008 Cadillac Escalade ESV
awd in that and other aspects?
What are the respective ground clearances?

 

So which rides higher ?

 

Yes, the 4x4 s ride a bit higher- I recall 2 inches, but don't quote me on that. Specifications are here, I doubt ride height changed much across the years nor with engine type give an inch or two.

I'd get the 4x4 if you're concerned with getting stuck in the sand (I assume you mean off the pavement, if not any rice burner with decent tires will do driving through puddles on the pavement; yes, even on the 95). The V10 or V8 (we call 'em gassers) will be a fair amount cheaper than the smokers. The caddy will crash and burn the second you take it off the pavement.

Take pic and share them here when you buy the King of the SUVs.

 

No interest in sand driving.

On the 95, even in my 05 Lincoln Town Car, I've had real problems with ponding, and you can't go through deep puddles without sucking water through the air intake. Though the Lincoln is higher than many sedans.

I want something high off the ground so I can fearlessly go through deep water on roads, nowhere else.

One night on the 95, it was raining hard and I was essentially blown left into the next lane in the wake a a large 18 wheeler kicking up a ton of spray. The left lane had huge puddles and I hit it like a ton of bricks. After that I decided I wanted a vehicle that could both take the water and not be bullied and pushed around so easily. The Excursion looks like just what I need.
Anyone disagree?

 

If you're hydroplaning with good tires up front on a heavy car, maybe just slow down or avoid the puddle? Wonder if you could make a snorkel for the Lincoln?

Regardless, get the excursion!

 

I was within the speed limit and was pushed into the puddle by the wake of a large truck.
I want a heavier vehicle so people can't do that to me.