AWD vs. 4x4
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Joined: May 2000
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AWD vs. 4x4
I'm about to buy a new Explorer or Mountaineer. However, I am confused about the relative merits of AWD and 4x4. Here are my two utility needs for the vehicle:
-reliable transportation on very hilly chip-and-seal roads in snow (1-4 inches)
-occasional towing of a 2500 lbs boat & trailer up to 300 miles (sometimes on the hills, but not in the snow -- hehe)
Other than that, it's commuter duty for a family of four. Would you recommend the 8 cylindar AWD or the 6 cylinder 4x4 with 4.1 ratio limited slip? Is there some other configuration I should consider?
I plan to get it loaded up, included load leveling, moonroof and reverse sensing. Any opinions on options or the Explorer vs. Mountaineer decision are welcome also. Thanks!
-reliable transportation on very hilly chip-and-seal roads in snow (1-4 inches)
-occasional towing of a 2500 lbs boat & trailer up to 300 miles (sometimes on the hills, but not in the snow -- hehe)
Other than that, it's commuter duty for a family of four. Would you recommend the 8 cylindar AWD or the 6 cylinder 4x4 with 4.1 ratio limited slip? Is there some other configuration I should consider?
I plan to get it loaded up, included load leveling, moonroof and reverse sensing. Any opinions on options or the Explorer vs. Mountaineer decision are welcome also. Thanks!
Postmaster
Joined: Jul 1999
Posts: 3,172
Likes: 4
AWD vs. 4x4
If youre towing , go with the 5.0L engine and the lowest rear axle ratio . With the Mountaineer , it decides when you need the AWD . Ive driven both and the Merc is a little cushier if you like the luxury side . Get a sales brochure or have the salesman let you look thru the spec books on both vehicles so you can decide how you want the vehicle based on what you are going to be using it for .
Paul
Paul
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Joined: May 2000
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AWD vs. 4x4
Thanks for the input, Paul. I've been told that the 4.0 V6 may be enough power for my towing needs. Any sense for what size loads the V8 really makes a difference for?
You mentioned the Merc as being cushier. Will that show up in performance at all? Again, thanks for taking the time to comment.
- Dan
You mentioned the Merc as being cushier. Will that show up in performance at all? Again, thanks for taking the time to comment.
- Dan
Postmaster
Joined: Jul 1999
Posts: 3,172
Likes: 4
AWD vs. 4x4
Dan ,
The Mountaineer's all come with the 5.0L . I really dont think the 4.0L is going to give you the towing performance youd like ? It will tow , but the engine is going to be working harder . It all depends on how much towing you will be doing . Another choice may be the new Explorer Sport Trac . Its basically a 4 Dr Explorer with a small truck bed that can be extended to a 6 ft bed . It comes with a liner , a power point in the bed and can be outfitted for just about any outside things people like to do .
Paul
The Mountaineer's all come with the 5.0L . I really dont think the 4.0L is going to give you the towing performance youd like ? It will tow , but the engine is going to be working harder . It all depends on how much towing you will be doing . Another choice may be the new Explorer Sport Trac . Its basically a 4 Dr Explorer with a small truck bed that can be extended to a 6 ft bed . It comes with a liner , a power point in the bed and can be outfitted for just about any outside things people like to do .
Paul
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