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!
120.7"
201.2"
68.0"
75.4"
64.3"
63.0"
3.0L
17
25
Wheel Covers - Full, plastic sport wheelcover
with center Ford badge
(15" x 5.5")
P205/70Rx15 BSW
3-Door Wagon
144 cu.ft. - rear seats removed;
22.1 cu.ft. - behind 3rd seat
4-speed automatic electronic
with overdrive lockout
Rack-and-pinion, power assist
4 wheel ABS, front disc, rear drum
3.0L SEFI V-6
9.3 : 1
Sequential electronic fuel injection
20.0 Gallons
Price as Tested: $24,105