1997-2001 Ford F-150

When Ford introduced its half-ton pickup, the F-1, in 1948, it was the truckmaker's first all-new post-World War II commercial vehicle. Fast forward to 1975 and the birth of the F-150, which, in its first year, made up more than one-third of total F-Series sales. For the past 25 years, it's been the best-selling half-ton on the market and the best-selling vehicle (car or truck) for the last 20. Redesigned for the '97 model year, the F-150 featured fresh sheetmetal, SOHC engines, and improved interiors.

For our 2000 example, the F-150 is available in Regular Cab, SuperCab (with half-size rear doors), and new SuperCrew (four full-size doors) variations. Base power comes from a 4.2L/205-hp V-6 mated with a five-speed manual transmission. V-8 options include the 4.6L/220-hp and 5.4L/260-hp with a manual (4.6L only) or four-speed autoboxes. Power delivery is good with all the engines, but the top-dog 5.4L Triton still can't match the torque offered by the General's cadre of V-8 engines. For max Ford truck power, look for a limited-production tire-melting 360-hp SVT Lightning.

Since most truck buyers today want carlike ride and handling, the F-150's suspension provides compliant on- and off-road articulation. Its precise steering, capable braking, rattle- and axle-hop-free ride clearly separates the F-150 from its half-ton competition. Base models have a 2000-lb trailer capacity, while properly equipped 5.4L models can pull up to 8800 lb.

While the interior is rather staid, from a functionality aspect, it's pretty hard to beat: Controls are large and easy to read and use, whatever the driving conditions. For those wanting additional space, opt for the SuperCrew (introduced mid-year as an '01 model) with four full-size doors and an Expedition-like 60/40 split rear seat.

Problem areas include improperly heat-treated seatbelt buckles and a wiper motor "park" switch that tended to short out. Both were covered in recalls, however. The '97-'98 models were a bit low in the horsepower and torque departments, so '99s and later half-tons are the ones to look for if towing is a priority. Factory fresh, a fairly decked out F-150 sold for around $26,500, and a good example today can be had for about $10 grand less--not a bad deal for the best-selling vehicle in America.

Body type: Full-size truck
Drivetrain Front engine, RWD
Airbag: Driver/pass
Base curb weight, lb: 4204
Base engine: 4.2L/205-hp SOHC V-6
Optional engine: 4.6L/220-hp SOHC V-8; 5.4L/260-hp SOHC V-8; 5.4L/360-hp supercharged SOHC V-8
Brakes, f/r: Disc/drum, rear ABS (Work, XL trim: 4.2, 4.6), disc/disc, four-wheel ABS (all others)
Price range: $11,775-$24,610/ wholesale/retail: $17,115-$32,275 (per Kelly Blue Book)
Recalls: Seatbelt buckles, wiper motor
NHTSA frontal impact: 4 stars rating, driver/pass