1999 Ford Windstar
The newest version of the Windstar finally gets a second sliding door, joining
the other minivans with four doors. What's more it's available as a power-operated
door. Windstar still rates best in government safety tests and it offers some
new features that set it apart from other minivans. The 1999 Ford windstar comes
with the base engine of a V6 3.0 liter while the top of the lin
e improves to 3.8 liter V6 engine which produces 200 horsepower.
The acceleration of the Windstar with the 3.8-liter engine is the same as that
of a sports hotrod sedan 15 years ago. Even with a full load of passengers the
Windstar has enough power for safe passing. At times the transmission shifts a
little abruptly but otherwise the vehicle's powertrain performs smoothly, although
it is a little raucous at high revs. Steering is about right with some feedback
for those who want to know what's going on. The ride is smooth thanks to the longest
wheelbase of any minivan and it is certainly a lot smoother than in any sport-utility
vehicle. Likewise the handling, while not as crisp a sedan, is more stable than
an SUV. Generally, the 1999 Windstar is designed as the ultimate family vehicle
with optimum versatility.
Ford has improved it throughout, though the previous models only failing was
the lack of a second sliding door. While adding the second door, Ford has taken
the opportunity to improve safety and emissions. Side airbags are available as
an option for the first time. If you can afford to purchase the top-of-the-line
model and add optional features such as side airbags and the reverse warning system,
you end up with one of the safest, most versatile vehicles on the road. It's almost
too good for the kids, a luxuriously set up Windstar is more suitable for taking
four to six adults on a long voyage or the city to the ball game.