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1996 Windstar GL

SEE ALSO: Ford Buyer's Guide

A Fulmer family review

by

Mark Fulmer, Editor In Chief, The Auto Channel

Susan Fulmer, School Counselor

Kathleen Fulmer, 8th grade student


Susan: I think the Windstar looks great on the outside, good lines, real sleek good looks. The deep forest green is a very nice color, too.

Mark: I agree. Modern, but not too much.

Susan: I like the fact that it's just the right height. It's very easy to get into and not look like you're either mounting a horse or cramming into a bobsled.

Mark: And once you're in, it's a pretty comfortable ride. We packed up a computer from the office (The Auto Channel) and took it out to Sears Point for the Western Journalists event, and the trip was effortless. I particularly appreciated the excellent visibility afforded by a dahboard mounted lower than most.

Susan: The climate controls are simple, but what's more important, they really cool down the van and work well even when the engine is working hard.

Katie: The back seats are very comfortable, and I really love having my own controls to the air conditioning and the music system.

Mark: It's about your music...

Katie: But you don't even have to hear my very cool music, because I've got my own headset jacks - and I don't have to listen to your old-timey stuff, either!

Susan: When we did some night driving, we found that the "personalized" lighting for each seating are was very good.

Mark: On the performance side, I thought the Windstar handled way above average, with a firm feel in the curves, much better than the "boat-y" sway found in some other vans. The power was there when you needed it, but it was not overpowered which undoubtedly helped in the mileage numbers.

Susan: A completely enjoyable van!

Katie: I want this van!

Mark: Congrats, Ford, you've got a Fulmer Family winner!

Windstar Wagon GL Specs

Wheel Base
120.7"

Length
201.2"

Height
68.0"

Width
75.4"

Front Tread
64.3"

Rear Tread
63.0"

Displacement
3.0L

MPG (City)
17

MPG (Highway)
25

Wheels
Wheel Covers - Full, plastic sport wheelcover
with center Ford badge
(15" x 5.5")

Tires
P205/70Rx15 BSW

Body
3-Door Wagon

Luggage
144 cu.ft. - rear seats removed;
22.1 cu.ft. - behind 3rd seat

Passengerv 7 Transmission
4-speed automatic electronic
with overdrive lockout

Steering
Rack-and-pinion, power assist

Brakes
4 wheel ABS, front disc, rear drum

Engine Type
3.0L SEFI V-6

Compression
9.3 : 1

Fuel System
Sequential electronic fuel injection

Tank Capacity
20.0 Gallons

Base Price: $20,145
Price as Tested: $24,105