The Ford F-Series F-150 X SuperCab, equipped with the 4.2-liter V6 engine and automatic transmission, was a mainstay of Ford’s full-size pickup truck lineup from 1997 through 2004. Representing the tenth generation of the F-Series (1997-2003, with minor updates extending to 2004), this configuration offered a balance between affordability, capability, and passenger space, targeting buyers who needed a versatile truck for both work and family use. The SuperCab body style, with its extended cab, provided rear seating and increased interior storage compared to the standard cab models. This particular variant occupied a mid-range position within the F-150 lineup, slotting below the more powerful V8 options and above the base inline-six engine.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | F-Series F-100/F-150 |
| Generation | F-Series F-150 X SuperCab |
| 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 | 5-6 |
| 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 | 1659 l / 58.59 cu. ft. |
| Fuel tank capacity | 95 l / 25.1 US gal | 20.9 UK gal |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2449 kg / 5399.12 lbs. |
| Length | 5728 mm / 225.51 in. |
| Width | 2014 mm / 79.29 in. |
| Height | 1849 mm / 72.8 in. |
| Wheelbase | 3518 mm / 138.5 in. |
| Front overhang | 983 mm / 38.7 in. |
| Rear overhang | 1227 mm / 48.31 in. |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 185 mm / 7.28 in. |
| Approach angle | 18.1° |
| Departure angle | 16.1° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 14.7° |
| Wading depth | 820 mm / 32.28 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 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this F-150 variant was the 4.2-liter (255.99 cubic inch) V6 engine, internally designated as the E4TE. This engine was a descendant of the Ford Essex V6 family, featuring a 90-degree V-angle and an overhead valve (OHV) valvetrain. The engine utilized a cast iron block and aluminum cylinder heads. Fuel delivery was managed by a multi-port fuel injection system, providing precise fuel metering for improved efficiency and emissions control. The 4.2L V6 produced 202 horsepower at 4800 rpm and 342 Nm (252.25 lb-ft) of torque at 3400 rpm. The engine was mated to a four-speed automatic transmission (4R70W), chosen for its ease of use and suitability for a wide range of driving conditions. This transmission featured electronic control for smoother shifting and improved fuel economy.
Driving Characteristics
The 4.2-liter V6 and automatic transmission combination delivered adequate, but not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration was reasonable for everyday driving, but the truck felt noticeably slower when fully loaded or towing. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were optimized for fuel economy and towing, resulting in a somewhat conservative shift pattern. Compared to the available 4.6-liter and 5.4-liter V8 engines, the 4.2L V6 offered less power and torque, making it less suitable for heavy-duty tasks. However, it provided a smoother and quieter driving experience than the base inline-six engine. The rear-wheel-drive configuration provided a traditional truck feel, with predictable handling and good traction in dry conditions.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The F-150 X SuperCab 4.2L Automatic typically came standard with features such as air conditioning, a basic AM/FM radio, cloth upholstery, and manual windows and locks. The SuperCab configuration added a second row of seating, albeit somewhat cramped, and increased interior storage space. Optional extras included power windows and locks, a CD player, upgraded sound systems, cruise control, and a sliding rear window. Trim levels varied depending on the package selected, with higher trims offering more luxurious interior appointments and additional convenience features. The X designation indicated a mid-level trim, offering a balance of features and affordability.
Chassis & Braking
The F-150 X SuperCab utilized a body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable platform. The front suspension consisted of independent coil springs with a transverse stabilizer bar, while the rear suspension employed leaf springs. This setup provided a comfortable ride quality, although it could feel somewhat bouncy when unloaded. Braking duties were handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard equipment. The braking system provided adequate stopping power for most driving situations, but larger brakes were available on higher trim levels and heavier-duty models.
Market Reception & Comparison
The F-150 X SuperCab 4.2L Automatic was generally well-received by consumers and critics alike. It was praised for its versatility, affordability, and comfortable ride. However, some reviewers noted its lack of power compared to the V8 options. Fuel economy was considered average for a full-size pickup truck, typically ranging from 14-16 mpg in city driving and 18-20 mpg on the highway. Compared to the 4.6L V8, the 4.2L offered better fuel economy but significantly less performance. The 4.2L also proved to be a relatively reliable engine, with fewer reported issues than some of the earlier Ford V8 designs.
Legacy
The 4.2-liter V6 engine, while not as iconic as Ford’s V8s, proved to be a durable and dependable powerplant. Many examples of the F-150 X SuperCab 4.2L Automatic are still on the road today, a testament to its longevity. In the used car market, these trucks are often sought after by buyers looking for an affordable and capable pickup truck. While maintenance costs are generally reasonable, potential buyers should be aware of common issues such as oil leaks and corrosion. The 4.2L V6 represents a transitional period in Ford truck design, bridging the gap between older, simpler engines and the more technologically advanced powertrains of the 21st century.
