Whats better?
Posting Guru
Joined: Jun 2002
Posts: 2,091
Likes: 3
From: Suffolk, VA USA
With a question like this, do you enjoy sticking your fingers in hornet nests too????
I've owned multiple versions of each. The power bands are very different. It's true the 4.9 has more low end torque, but it takes so long to spin up it gets aggravating. The 5.0 won't tow what a 4.9 will, but it'll get out of it's own way. And my 5.0s all have gotten better gas mileage than the 4.9s, and I can compare against the same gearing.
So it still comes down to your need. If you're going to tow, get the 4.9. If you're going to drive, get the 5.0.
I've owned multiple versions of each. The power bands are very different. It's true the 4.9 has more low end torque, but it takes so long to spin up it gets aggravating. The 5.0 won't tow what a 4.9 will, but it'll get out of it's own way. And my 5.0s all have gotten better gas mileage than the 4.9s, and I can compare against the same gearing.
So it still comes down to your need. If you're going to tow, get the 4.9. If you're going to drive, get the 5.0.
Postmaster
Joined: May 2004
Posts: 2,854
Likes: 0
Your 4.9s weren't typical for whatever reason. My 4.9 has matched the EPA ratings since new in 83, and 5.0s had lower mileage ratings across all powertrain and chassis choices. Fuel Economy I believe.
Posting Guru
Joined: Jun 2002
Posts: 2,091
Likes: 3
From: Suffolk, VA USA
I've owned four 4.9s and three 5.0s and gotten the same results with each. Maybe it's just my driving style.....or foot size.
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Post Fiend
Joined: Jul 2004
Posts: 8,786
Likes: 28
From: Northern California
If you were reving the 4.9L, all you were doing is wasting gasoline.
5.0L great for speed, work commuting and light hauling.
4.9L good for hauling, working, towing, and gas mileage if driven right, but you won't win any races for speed.
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