Slate vs. 1995 Ranger 2.3 5 speed

[5ohbrad]

Just my thoughts- if I misrepresented anything here feel free to correct me. I have owned 3 mid 90’s Rangers over the years and absolutely love the rugged simplicity that those trucks represented. I present that this is the truck the Slate should be compared to- not the Maverick.

	1995 Ranger	2026 Slate EV
Drivetrain	2.3 4 cyl 5 speed RWD	Single 150kw motor RWD
Cost	$11k ($23k in 2025)	$27.5k - ($7.5k tax credit)
HP/TQ	112/135	201/195
Curb Weight	2950 lbs	3650 lbs
Range	360	150
Towing	6000lbs	1000lbs
payload	1000lbs	1400lbs
0-60mph	9.5 sec	8.0 sec
Mileage	22mpg combined	95 eMPG (33.7kWh= 1 gal gas)

I get the range, towing and stereo arguments against the Slate, but stay objective with me here- most people wouldn’t drive a Ranger 150+ miles in a day. I can tell you from experience that while towing 6000 lbs may be possible, it’s not a realistic expectation of a Ranger. The Slate also has tons of dry secure storage up front that doesn’t eat up passenger space or cargo space like a tool box. While it’s heavier, the weight is down low and to the rear where the Ranger was often too light causing poor traction. For daily commuters with another family vehicle, auto parts delivery, pool cleaners, pest control services, security, etc.- I think this will be the perfect vehicle.

 

[Daley]

Nice breakdown and totally agree the old Ranger is a better comp, especially a regular cab. I’d say though that the Slate looks more like an 80’s Ranger than a 90’s Ranger. Learned to drive on an ‘88.

 

[E90400K]

Nice breakdown and totally agree the old Ranger is a better comp, especially a regular cab. I’d say though that the Slate looks more like an 80’s Ranger than a 90’s Ranger. Learned to drive on an ‘88.

My first pickup was a 1987 Ranger STX. 2-dr long bed (7'), I bought new. That's when the STX was an off-road equipment package rather than a trim with "STX" stickers.

But the Gen 1 Ranger is no longer for sale. The Maverick has taken its place. And I'm not sure why with the Gen6 Ranger, Ford dropped the 2-dr long bed configuration. It now competes with the Maverick too. Lol.

 

[63surf]

Had a ‘99 Ranger XLT 2door, 4 banger with 5 speed manual. Harvest Gold with wheat colored interior. Bought it new.
Selling that little truck was BY FAR my biggest auto regret!
I’m hoping a rather basic Slate can help recapture that connection.