The Ford Econoline is a range of full sized vans (both passenger and cargo) and trucks produced by the Ford Motor Company, Sized roughly the same as the Ford Falcon, the car was intended to provide competition to the Corvair Sportsvan of Chrysler. Early generation models carried a 6 cylinder 144 cid engine with a 3 speed manual transmission. Succeeding models came with more powerful engines, 170 or 240 CID engines, with auto transmissions. It enjoyed instant success with utility companies, like the Bell Telephone System, which used it as a delivery van. The Econoline has been around for more than four decades now and some car critics suggest that it is dated. The last time the van received a major facelift was in 1996, more than 10 years ago. Since then, it has undergone some design changes of only superficial nature. The 1996 facelift included a new front grille, which feature an elliptical cutout and lower front bumper trim. There were layouts for the ergonomic dashboard and dual airbags. The most important change was the introduction of the new Ford Triton engines composed of 5.4 litre V8 and a 6.8 litre V10. Other non triton engines made available were 4.2 litre and 4.6 litre V6 engines. The 7.3 litre diesel engine remained the same. The 2008 Econoline, more known today as the E-Series ranks high among current passenger vans in the market in terms of reliability. It offers good choices of powerful engines and roomy interior. But its design is getting old and more modern competitors are surpassing it in areas of interior comfort and safety. The Econoline has two available trims — those intended for passenger use and those constructed for commercial use. The XLT and E-150 XL trims are passenger vans that can seat seven or eight, depending on the arrangement. The more powerful E-350 models are for commercial use and are able to carry up to 15 adults (in the lengthier model) or a great amount of cargo. All models, however, are rather inadequate when it comes to safety and interior comfort features that are found in its more modern competitors. All used Ford Econoline cars come with a 3 year or 36 thousand mile bumper to bumper guarantee, a 5 year, 60 thousand mile power train, and 5 year perforation only warranty and unlimited mileage. The 6.0 litre diesel engine has a guarantee of 100,000 miles or five years. Spacious and reliable – these are the best qualities of the Econoline. Perhaps nobody should expect for more because it is built as a workhorse, and not to live up to any aesthetic standards or to provide comfort.