The Ford Aerostar 4.0 V6 XL Automatic, produced from 1989 to 1997, represented a significant offering in Ford’s minivan lineup. Positioned as a mid-to-upper trim level, the 4.0L V6 engine paired with an automatic transmission provided a balance of power and convenience for families seeking a spacious and capable vehicle. The Aerostar, as a whole, was Ford’s initial foray into the then-burgeoning minivan market, aiming to compete with established players like the Dodge Caravan and Plymouth Voyager. This particular variant aimed to appeal to buyers who desired more than the base model’s performance, without stepping up to the more expensive and feature-laden options.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | Aerostar |
| Generation | Aerostar |
| Type | 4.0 V6 XL (155 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 1989 |
| End of production | 1997 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Maximum speed | 170 km/h (105.63 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.8 kg/Hp, 102.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.1 kg/Nm, 196.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 155 Hp @ 4200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 39.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 298 Nm @ 2400 rpm (219.79 lb.-ft. @ 2400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine displacement | 3958 cm3 (241.53 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 100 mm (3.94 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.7 l (4.97 US qt | 4.14 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 11.9 l (12.57 US qt | 10.47 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1516 kg (3342.21 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 3835 l (135.43 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 79 l (20.87 US gal | 17.38 UK gal) |
| Length | 4442 mm (174.88 in.) |
| Width | 1821 mm (71.69 in.) |
| Height | 1851 mm (72.87 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3020 mm (118.9 in.) |
| Front track | 1562 mm (61.5 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1524 mm (60 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 215/70 R14 |
| Wheel rims size | 14 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Aerostar 4.0 V6 XL was the 3.958-liter (241.53 cubic inch) Ford Essex V6 engine. This engine, designated within Ford as part of the Essex family, featured a 60-degree V-configuration, two valves per cylinder, and a cast iron block with aluminum cylinder heads. The 4.0L version utilized multi-port fuel injection, a significant upgrade over earlier carbureted versions, contributing to improved fuel efficiency and smoother power delivery. The engine produced 155 horsepower at 4200 rpm and 298 Nm (219.79 lb-ft) of torque at 2400 rpm. The automatic transmission was a four-speed unit, designed to provide comfortable and convenient shifting. While not known for its lightning-fast acceleration, the transmission was generally reliable and well-suited to the Aerostar’s intended purpose as a family hauler.
Driving Characteristics
The Aerostar 4.0 V6 Automatic offered a noticeable step up in performance compared to the base 3.0L V6 engine. While not a sports vehicle by any means, the 4.0L provided adequate power for highway merging, passing maneuvers, and carrying a full load of passengers and cargo. The automatic transmission, while smooth, did contribute to some power loss compared to the available five-speed manual transmission. The gear ratios were tuned for fuel economy and drivability rather than outright performance. The rear-wheel-drive configuration, while somewhat unusual for a minivan at the time, provided a stable and predictable driving experience, particularly in inclement weather when properly equipped with tires.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The XL trim level of the Aerostar 4.0 V6 Automatic typically included features such as air conditioning, an upgraded sound system, power windows and locks, and a tilt steering wheel. Upholstery was generally cloth, with options for upgraded materials available. Popular optional extras included a rear window wiper, cruise control, and a towing package. The interior design was functional and family-oriented, with ample storage compartments and comfortable seating. The dashboard layout was straightforward and easy to use, prioritizing practicality over aesthetics.
Chassis & Braking
The Aerostar utilized a body-on-frame construction, which was common for vans and trucks at the time. This provided a robust and durable platform, but also contributed to a higher curb weight. The front suspension featured a double wishbone design, while the rear suspension employed coil springs. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and drum brakes at the rear. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) was available, enhancing safety and control during emergency stops. The steering was hydraulic power-assisted, making maneuvering the large minivan relatively easy.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Aerostar 4.0 V6 Automatic was generally well-received by critics as a capable and practical minivan. It offered a good balance of power, space, and features at a competitive price point. Compared to the base 3.0L V6 model, the 4.0L provided a significant improvement in performance, making it a more appealing option for buyers who frequently carried heavy loads or drove on hilly terrain. However, the Aerostar’s body-on-frame construction and rear-wheel-drive layout were seen as somewhat outdated compared to the more modern unibody designs and front-wheel-drive configurations of competitors like the Dodge Caravan and Plymouth Voyager. Fuel economy was also a concern for some buyers, as the 4.0L V6 was not particularly fuel-efficient.
Legacy
The Ford Aerostar, while discontinued in 1997, remains a fondly remembered vehicle for many families. The 4.0L V6 engine, when properly maintained, proved to be a durable and reliable powertrain. Today, well-maintained Aerostars can still be found on the road, often serving as affordable and spacious transportation for those seeking a classic minivan experience. Parts availability can be a challenge, but a dedicated community of Aerostar enthusiasts continues to support the preservation and restoration of these vehicles. The Aerostar paved the way for Ford’s later, more successful minivan offerings, such as the Windstar and Odyssey, and helped establish Ford as a major player in the minivan market.
