Overview & Reviews
They say that in the event of Armageddon, the only thing to survive will be cockroaches. Well, there's a good chance you'd see some old Ford Rangers cruising around, too. This compact pickup truck soldiered on with relatively few revisions for nearly three decades. Of course, there were styling and interior overhauls over the decades, but the platform and most mechanicals underneath it all were practically Jurassic. Even those styling and interior updates dated back to the 1990s.
Older Rangers aren't quite as out of date compared to competitors of similar age. And given its wide choice of trim styles and lower pricing than comparable Japanese rivals, a well-maintained late-model Ford Ranger could be a good choice for a used pickup, provided you don't need a lot of passenger capacity or horsepower. But if you're looking for a relatively new used compact or midsize pickup, the Ford Ranger pales in comparison to other trucks with their more powerful engines, roomier crew-cab body styles and greater overall refinement.
Used Ford Ranger Models
The most recent generation of the Ford Ranger was produced from 2001 through 2011 and typically came in four different flavors: XL, XLT, Sport, and the off-road-oriented FX4. Depending on the year, there were also the monochromatic Edge, sporty STX and sound system-centered Tremor. Only standard and extended cab body styles were offered, as there was still no crew cab version.
Engine selection consisted of a 2.3-liter four-cylinder, a 3.0-liter V6 (until 2009) and a 4.0-liter V6. Output of the smaller engines varied slightly depending on year, with the 2.3 making 135-143 horsepower and the 3.0 making 148-154 hp. The 4.0 made 207 hp. Transmission choices included a five-speed manual and a five-speed automatic for all engines, though initially the 4.0-liter V6 came only with the automatic.
Although nimble on- and off-road due to its true compact size, even this latest version of the Ranger was seriously dated in terms of features and available body styles. While its midsize rivals offered roomy crew-cab (four-door) models, more modern features and much more powerful V6 engines, the Ranger made do with standard and extended-cab configurations only, and relatively low-tech power plants.
The second generation of the Ranger ran from 1993 through 2000. Styling was less blocky than the first-gen truck and the cabin was likewise updated with less angular forms. Standard and extended cab body styles were offered, but they were joined by a stylish, flareside bed version dubbed the Splash. Under the hood was the expected choice of a four- or six-cylinder engine. Notable changes throughout this generation are the availability of four-wheel antilock brakes in 1995, a five-speed automatic transmission (versus four-speed) for V6 models in '97 and freshened styling for '98.
Introduced for 1983, the Ford Ranger started life as a standard-cab, four-cylinder compact pickup truck with a choice of two bed lengths. The mid-'80s saw the introduction of the extended-cab body style known as the "SuperCab," which offered jump seats that were best left to kids. The Ranger continued through the early '90s with minor upgrades to the powertrains and small cosmetic changes.
User Reviews:
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A great vehicle! - 1997 Ford Ranger
By mrbower - August 10 - 2:00 amI have owned many vehicles, including ultra-luxury models, and this is the most reliable, most comfortable vehicle I have ever owned. I purchased it from the dealer with 15000 miles on it and the only problem it has ever had was the adjustment switch for the driver side o/s mirror failed and was replaced under warranty. The 4.0 engine has enough power for any situation and gets reasonable economy for its size. Handling is superb. My next vehicle will probably be a Ford SUV, as I will be needing a little more room.
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Excellent Truck! - 1995 Ford Ranger
By Haines - August 9 - 2:00 amThis truck has not disappointed at all! It has been extremely reliable- no major problems at all and one very minor problem with it- through 85000 miles! It still gets 28 mpg highway and 21 mpg city, not bad for a 4.0 liter 6 cylinder engine (5 speed stick). I recommend this truck and plan on buying another one in future... hope Ford keeps making them in 4.0 liter six with 5 speed manual transmission!
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good stuff - 2000 Ford Ranger
By Aruba27 - August 9 - 2:00 amIve had this truck for a few weeks now. Because mine is a manual, ive gotten it to get great, and horrible gas mileage. mine is also a 4 cyl, which is why i can get such good mileage. the acceleration is horrible though, even though it is a manual transmission.
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98 Ranger - 1998 Ford Ranger
By r_man - August 8 - 2:00 amAn overall very good vehicle
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Comfort without Guts - 1992 Ford Ranger
By Merlot - August 7 - 2:00 amThis truck has been a good one. The paint will chip, the thing is gutless on hills, but cant beat it for a commuter vehicle
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dna - 2000 Ford Ranger
By l heath - August 7 - 2:00 amthis is my third ranger and each one has been a little gem
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Ford Ranger Edge 4x4 - 2002 Ford Ranger
By DeaPee - August 5 - 10:00 amI owned a 93 Ranger, then a 2001 Dodge Dakota previously, all of which were 4wd. This new-style ranger is definately tough-looking, fun to drive, and reliable (which was my biggest reason to buy). I have the 3.0 liter motor, which has adequate power for me. Also, these rangers look so much tougher than them s-10s. I dont know why anyone buys one of them.
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Good little truck - 2000 Ford Ranger
By truck - August 4 - 2:00 amNo problems with this truck at all
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Last Ranger - 2000 Ford Ranger
By Gersey Jim - August 4 - 2:00 amPurchased USED,had 25000 on odometer. Enemic engine to say the least. Screams on the interstate, with a moderate load Im being passed by 18 wheelers, with my foot mashed to the firewall. I always thought Ford made the Ranger but Im now convinced Mazda makes it. One can not compare it to the Chevie S-10, Ive owned three S-10 and this is my First and Last Ranger. The Chevie V-6 is twice the engine the Ranger has... As for creature comforts, Ford should borrow an S-10 and maybe copy half their interior design, starting with ease of getting into the back of the extended cab.Do yourself a favor, Drive an S-10 then the Ranger, you wont go Ford, I promise you.
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review of 92 ranger - 1992 Ford Ranger
By shane stratton - August 3 - 2:00 amtransmission has went out three times i recomend not buying one
