Greased lightning - 2002 Ford F150 Lightning pickup
As the No. 1 selling truck in the U.S. for 20 years, the Ford F-Series continues to develop a following in the hotly contested, highly profitable, full-size truck segment of the American automotive market. Aware that product is the key to the hearts and minds of the American truck buyer, Ford has revived a popular, limited production model of the F-150 pickup -- the Lightning.
Engineered and developed by Ford's Special Vehicle Operations (SVO), the go-fast freaks are charged with turning up the heat on a number of production vehicles -- stretching the performance envelope in ways not normally available from the regular assembly line.
SVO launched the first F-150 SVT off the previous F-150 pickup chassis in 1993. That run ended in 1995. The current go-fast pickup is based off the modern F-150 platform that debuted in 1996 as a 1997 model. Ford reintroduced a lethal version of the Lightning to the American public based on the current chassis in 1999.
For 2002, the Ford Lightning F-150 pickup is offered in a regular cab, short wheelbase, two-wheel drive configuration. Power is generated by a supercharged 5.4L Triton V-8 and transferred to the pavement via the robust 4R100 four-speed automatic. A limited slip differential is standard, along with larger brake rotors and calipers.
SVO applied their magic skills to the suspension of the SVT Lightning -- lowering the front end ride height by a half an inch and the rear by two inches over the standard F-150. The front suspension consists of upper and lower A-arms, 650 lb./in. SVT coil springs and Bilstein absorbers, and a specially designed 31 mm solid stabilizer bar.
The rear suspension features a 200 lb./in. SVT five-leaf spring system that replaces the standard F-150 three leaf unit. A SVT 23 mm solid stabilizer bar limits body lean and helps balance traction during cornering. The right rear Bilstein shock is staggered toward the front of the vehicle, which limits axle tramp under full-throttle acceleration. Goodyear Eagle F1 GS P295/45ZR18 tires keep the low-flying Ford truck attached to Mother Earth.
Currently recognized as the fastest production pickup truck available in the marketplace, the Lightning has aggressive good looks to go with the upgraded powertrain. New upper and lower front grills with a horizontal billet-bar design distinguish the Lightning from the regular F-150. Headlights, taillights, side-marker lights and the signature round fog lights all have clear, crystalline lenses found only on Lightning, which give the exterior a clean, jewel-like appearance.
Inside the cabin, black-on-white analog dials greet the driver. Displays and controls are easy to find and use. The Lightning makes a powerful design statement on the inside as well, with an Ebony textured leather and Medium Graphite cloth trim 40/60 split bench seat with center jump seat with the SVT logo stitched in the seatback.
The comfortable power driver's seat affords superior visibility for short drivers. Conveniently placed hand grips in the "A" pillar facilitate entry/exit for driver and front passenger. A sliding rear window only adds to the package.
Built exclusively at the automaker's Ontario (Canada) truck plant, Ford manufactured approximately 4,000 F-150 Lightning pickups during the 2002 model year. According to sources with the SVO, the company has tentatively planned to build between 4,000 to 5,000 units for 2003.
On the road, the Lightning is at once both powerful and mannerable -- more like a weightlifter in a tailored Amani suit than brute beast. Ride quality is superb. The tuned dual exhaust yields a throaty exhaust note that adds to the truck's attitude and street presence.
Ratings & Specifications
Engine performance numbers for the supercharged Triton 5.4L V-8 are 380 hp at 4,750 rpm and 450 lbs-ft of torque at 3,250 rpm. EPA fuel economy is 12 city/16 highway using premium unleaded gasoline.
Underhood fluids are easily accessible but not uniformly marked. Properly equipped, the Ford F-150 Lightning has a maximum payload of 800 lbs., and a towing capacity of 5,000 lbs.
Standard safety equipment includes the following: dual front airbags, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, limited slip differential, SecuriLock passive anti-theft system and remote keyless entry.
The base Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the Ford F-150 Lightning pickup starts at $32,075. Destination charge adds $740. Be sure to check with the local dealer for availability.
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