Ranger?

I'm thinking about just getting a ranger. I can get one cheaper, 4x4, supercab xlt. Lift. I figure, do this and save up for a nice stock 04-08. I actually have an 87 ranger (2.3 5 speed) right now. Its in bad shape though, and 2wd . My main thing is should I get a 2.3, 3.0, or 4.0? I doubt I'd get a 2.3, too underpowered. Opinions?

Also, the reason I'm not driving the ranger yet is it still isn't road ready.

Fun facts about it: this isn't the original engine, original was 2.0,this is a 2.3 out of an 85 mustang. It has a 78 Weber carburetor. It's also a piece o junk lol.

 

Might as well get the 4.0. Not much of a mpg difference between it and the 3.0, and the 2.3 is pretty underpowered, especially if you want a 4x4 and lift it.

How cheap can you find one? The mpg actually isn't that much better than the 150s.

2008 XL $7900
2008 Ford F-150 Regular Cab Pickup XL

2008 XL Longbed $10900
Used 2008 Ford F-150

2008 XLT Scab $10900
2008 Ford F-150 XLT SuperCab 4WD- PRICE DROP!

 

I was planning like 94 and newer. I could find a nice older splash for around 3-4g's on the highside probably. Or a 2000-ish probably. I agree on the MPG, my main concern is just getting something reliable quicker, and something I won't mind putting the miles on. Even if they are highway miles (college)

 

Very true. Or I guess I could do a 302 swap

 

haha then you're in for a lot more money. I'd find a clean one with the 4.0 and just the piss out of it

 

Sounds good. Ill base my final decision once I get a job and find out how long it'll take me to save up some monay

 

That's kickass. I know a kid with a white 2002-ish ranger with the 4.0. I know he's always burning his tired around the neighborhood he lives in.

 

ford ranger 4.0l supercharger burnout.MP4 - YouTube