1999 Ford Windstar

Allready PrintedIn our opinions and actual everyday use, we're tough on our "LongTermers," especially those multipurpose cargo-toting vehicles an entire family can use and, in some cases, abuse. Our '99 Ford Windstar SEL, whether called upon as safe, comfortable, and convenient transport for family vacations, picking up new furniture, or playing Los Angeles tour guide for out-of-town guests, was the staff's vehicle of choice. As the lives of most minivans are destined for such varied duties, we were eager to put Ford's redesigned-in-'99 family conveyance to full use, and then some.

What changed from model years '98 to '99 encompassed everything but the windshield and roof. Its styling was all new, and there were numerous mechanical and equipment level revisions. Inside, changes included a freshened instrument panel and steering wheel, new seats throughout, new audio systems, available side airbags and reverse sensing system, and, for the first time, a left-side sliding door. In addition, both doors came with available dual power sliders.

Mechanically, The Windstar's front subframe was all new, too; the transaxle, braking system, and suspension, and steering were all improved. Finally, standard and available powerplants were revised to meet either LEV or ULEV requirements. If we look back on it, the only trick Ford missed that some of the other manufacturers didn't was a third-row "magic seat" that doesn't require a back-breaking removal, rather ours would disappear into the floor-more on that later.

We ordered the top-of-the-line, $30,415 SEL model. With that base price came a long list of standard equipment: foremost 3.8L/200-hp V-6, two-tone paint, leather-trimmed steering wheel and quad bucket seats (the front two power-adjusted), 16-in. aluminum wheels, dual power sliding doors, a "message center," and premium audio. To that list, we added only side airbags ($390), floor console ($155), an object-sensing bumper ($245, well spent), factory security package ($275), and a class II towing package that includes a 78-amp battery (versus 58-A) and augmented trans cooling ($435). Factor in destination/delivery charges, and our as-tested total came to $32,535. It was ready for anything a family could throw at it, spill in it, or haul in it.

From The Logbook"Interior has a richer, warmer feel than the Honda's, and I really like the little panorama mirror that let's me keep an eye on out-of-control kids, and editors, in the back."

"They went through all the trouble to redesign the Windstar, but really missed by not including a foldaway third-row seat."

"Nobody will say the 3.8L V-6 is quiet, but it's torquey and gets the job done."

What's Hot* Powerful 200-hp V-6* Few problems or recalls* Good resale value

What's Not* Cumbersome third-row seat* Somewhat floaty static ride* Could use some soundproofing