I recently hit ice and snow and then a lightpole... totalling my Explorer that served me well for the last 6 years... I'm now looking at two here is the info... I'm just looking for opinions, concerns that you've had if you've owned or do own either of these models/years. Thank you! Option 1 : 1999 Explorer Sport, 4.0 6cyl... Does anyone know if these have an overhead cam or an overhead valve engine? My mechanic says stick with the the overhead valve engine... it's got 165,000 miles, drive and rides well, although rougher then the 4 door because of the shorter wheel base. It's had two previous owners. Option 2: 1996 Explorer, 4.0, pos-track... Runs ok, seems a bit noisy, but nothing to concerning... don't care for the tires but they'd do for now. I'm used to the 4 doors, and would miss them...it's go 148,000 and has been a one owner car. Both were bought at auto auctions... both are in the same price range... One more question, any gas usage difference in the sport and 4 door? Thank you! Toni

Hey Toni ... Sorry to hear of your mishap ... To answer one of your questions: I have a '99 4-door XLT with the 4.0 SOHC (single overhead cam). Ford produced two 4.0 engines that year. Contrary to what your mechanic tells you, (and according to Consumer Reports) the SOHC is the one you want. The other one (OHV - overhead valve) has had a lot of problems from what I hear and does not produce as much HP. Can't help you with gas usage - no experience. Good luck with whatever you choose! PigHead

Thank you! I'm feeling so much pressure... there's a 3rd in the mix now and when you want something of your own (tired of putting my friend out using his) it's hard to not just jump on what's available now. Is there anyway to know what kind of engine (for the layman) that the 99' would have? I asked they guy selling it (who bought it at an auction to resell) and he said he doesn't know... The 3rd is a 2000 4 dr xlt with 165,000 mi and a new transmission.

You defintely want to get the one with the SOHC engine. It makes so much more power and I beleive Ford said it got better gas mileage also. My 97 had that and it was a good motor. The 97 also had what I think you are calling the ControlTrac 4x4 system. That was a very reliable system also. My current Explorer is a 98 Limited with the 5.0 V8 and all wheel drive. The V8 is good because its been around forever in other Ford products, but its a bit thirsty in town I average about 14mpg in town, on the highway sometimes I can get 21- 22 mpg. The V8 just makes alot of torque, which you need if you tow anything like me.