The Ford F-Series F-150 X Regular Cab, equipped with the 4.2-liter V6 engine and automatic transmission, represents a significant iteration of Ford’s long-running and immensely popular F-Series pickup truck line. Produced from 1997 through 2004, this configuration occupied a crucial position in the F-150 lineup, offering a balance between affordability, capability, and convenience for buyers seeking a work-oriented or light-duty truck. This variant was part of the tenth generation of the F-Series (1997-2003, with minor updates extending to 2004), a generation known for its modernized styling and improved interior comfort compared to its predecessors.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | F-Series F-100/F-150 |
| Generation | F-Series F-150 X Regular Cab |
| Type (Engine) | 4.2 V6 (202 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 1997 |
| End of production | 2004 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 3 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Power | 202 Hp @ 4800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 48.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 342 Nm @ 3400 rpm / 252.25 lb.-ft. @ 3400 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine displacement | 4195 cm3 / 255.99 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 96.77 mm / 3.81 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 95 mm / 3.74 in. |
| Compression ratio | 9.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHV |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.7 l / 6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt |
| Coolant | 19 l / 20.08 US qt | 16.72 UK qt |
| Max. weight | 2744 kg / 6049.48 lbs. |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 1422 l / 50.22 cu. ft. |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2056 l / 72.61 cu. ft. |
| Fuel tank capacity | 95-114 l / 25.1 – 30.12 US gal | 20.9 – 25.08 UK gal |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2585 kg / 5698.95 lbs. |
| Length | 5255-5728 mm / 206.89 – 225.51 in. |
| Width | 2014 mm / 79.29 in. |
| Height | 1864 mm / 73.39 in. |
| Wheelbase | 3045-3518 mm / 119.88 – 138.5 in. |
| Front overhang | 983 mm / 38.7 in. |
| Rear overhang | 1227 mm / 48.31 in. |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 203 mm / 7.99 in. |
| Approach angle | 18.5° |
| Departure angle | 16.2° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 17.4° |
| Wading depth | 843 mm / 33.19 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 | Independent coil spring, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Leaf spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 308 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 335 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Cone worm with recirculation balls |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 235/70 R16; 255/70 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this F-150 X was the 4.2-liter (255.99 cubic inch) V6 engine, designated as the engine code E4TE. This engine was a significant departure from the inline-six engines previously offered in the F-Series. It featured a 90-degree V-configuration, overhead valve (OHV) valvetrain with two valves per cylinder, and a multi-port fuel injection system. The 4.2L V6 produced 202 horsepower at 4800 rpm and 342 Nm (252.25 lb-ft) of torque at 3400 rpm. The engine’s design prioritized low-end torque, making it suitable for hauling and towing applications. The automatic transmission paired with this engine was typically a four-speed unit (4R70W), chosen for its durability and ease of use. This transmission was known for its relatively smooth shifts, but wasn’t as refined as some of the newer automatic transmissions available in competing trucks.
Driving Characteristics
The 4.2L V6 and automatic transmission combination delivered a driving experience geared towards practicality rather than outright performance. Acceleration was adequate for everyday driving, but noticeably slower than the available 4.6L and 5.4L V8 engines. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were optimized for towing and hauling, resulting in a lower first gear for improved off-the-line capability. However, this also meant that the engine often operated at higher RPMs during highway cruising, potentially impacting fuel economy. Compared to the manual transmission versions of the 4.2L, the automatic offered greater convenience, especially in stop-and-go traffic, but at the expense of some responsiveness and fuel efficiency. The truck’s ride quality was typical for a body-on-frame pickup, offering a comfortable ride on smooth roads but becoming more noticeable on rough surfaces.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The F-150 X Regular Cab with the 4.2L V6 and automatic transmission typically represented an entry-level or mid-range trim. Standard features generally included air conditioning, a basic AM/FM radio, cloth upholstery, and manual windows and locks. Optional extras included power windows and locks, a CD player, upgraded sound systems, cruise control, and a sliding rear window. The interior was functional and durable, designed to withstand the rigors of work truck use. The exterior styling was consistent with the tenth-generation F-150, featuring a rounded, aerodynamic design that was a departure from the more boxy designs of previous generations.
Chassis & Braking
The F-150 X Regular Cab utilized a traditional body-on-frame construction. The front suspension consisted of independent coil springs with a transverse stabilizer bar, while the rear suspension employed leaf springs. This setup provided a good balance between ride comfort and load-carrying capacity. Braking duties were handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as a standard feature. The braking system was adequate for the truck’s weight and intended use, providing reliable stopping power in most conditions. The rear leaf spring suspension was chosen for its durability and ability to handle heavy loads, but it could sometimes result in a less refined ride compared to coil spring setups.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 4.2L V6 automatic F-150 was generally well-received by buyers seeking an affordable and capable pickup truck. Critics noted its adequate power and torque for most tasks, but also pointed out its lower performance compared to the V8 options. Fuel economy was considered average for its class. Compared to the 4.6L and 5.4L V8 models, the 4.2L offered a lower price point, making it attractive to budget-conscious buyers. However, those needing more power for heavy towing or hauling typically opted for the V8 engines. The 4.2L’s simplicity also contributed to its relatively good reliability, making it a popular choice for fleet vehicles and work trucks.
Legacy
The 4.2L V6 engine, while eventually replaced by more modern powertrains, proved to be a durable and reliable engine. The combination of the 4.2L V6 and the 4R70W automatic transmission is generally considered to be a relatively trouble-free powertrain. Today, these F-150s can be found in the used car market at affordable prices, making them attractive options for buyers seeking a basic, dependable pickup truck. While not as sought-after as the V8 models, the 4.2L F-150 remains a capable and practical vehicle, representing a significant chapter in the history of Ford’s iconic F-Series line.
