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1996 Ford Aerostar Review Summary & Specs

Cargo Cargo Minivan
Rear-drive virtues in a solid survivor.

Summary & Specs

reviewed by New Car Test Drive

Originally conceived as an answer to the first Chrysler minivans, the Aerostar is an

old school rear-drive van that's at its best when it's harnessed for hard work. It can

haul--and tow--heavier loads than the front-drive crowd, and gets the job done with a

fair degree of comfort and style.

If car-like driving is high on your list of priorities, you'll probably be happier in

one of the many excellent front-drive minivans.

But rear-wheel drive and rugged construction still have a place in this arena. And, in

the Aerostar's case, the price is attractive.

Specs

Vehicle Category Minivans
Editor Lynn Henning
Model Lineup
Engines (standard) 3.0-liter ohv V6
Engines (optional) 160-hp 4.0-liter ohv V6
Transmissions (standard) 4-speed automatic
Transmissions (optional)
Safety Equipment (standard) Driver's airbag, rear ABS
Safety Equipment (optional)
Basic Warranty 1 year/12 months
Assembled In St. Louis, MO
Manufacturer Phone 1-800-392-3673
Manufacturer URL www.ford.com
Base Price MSRP $17,355

Specs as Tested

Model Tested MSRP XLT
Standard Equipment Air conditioning, AM/FM radio, storage bins
Options as Tested (MSRP) High capacity air conditioning, AM/FM/cassette sound system, power windows, power locks, power mirrors, map lights, privacy glass, limited slip differential, child restraint seat
Destination Charge
Gas Guzzler Tax
Layout
Price as Tested $20,489
Horse Power 140 @ 5000
Torque 160 @ 2750
Fuel Economy 17/22
Wheelbase 118.9
Length/Width/Height 174.9/61.5/72.9
Track Front/Rear 61.5/60.0
Turning Radius 37.2
Seating Capacity 7
Front Head/Hip/Leg room 39.5/60.1/41.4
Middle Head/Hip/Leg room 38.7/60.1/37.5
Rear Head/Hip/Leg room 37.3/62.9/37.5
Trunk Volume 139.3
Payload
Towing Capacity 4400
Front Suspension Independent
Rear Suspension Live axle
Ground Clearance
Curb Weight 3500
Stock Tires P215/70R-14 all-season radials
Brakes Front/Rear disc/drum
Fuel Capacity 21.0

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