How many miles per gallon does a 1998 Ford E350 get?
There isn’t a single MPG figure for a 1998 Ford E-350. Gasoline-powered versions typically average around 12–15 mpg in mixed driving, while highway efficiency tends to be in the mid-to-high teens; diesel versions usually run roughly 15–20 mpg, with better highway performance.
Powertrains and how they affect fuel economy
In 1998, the E-350 was offered with gasoline V8 options and a diesel option. Because the van’s weight, payload, tire size, and drivetrain choices vary, the mpg numbers below are approximate real‑world ranges commonly reported by owners and testers.
Gasoline-powered E-350 mpg ranges
- City driving: typically 11–14 mpg
- Highway driving: typically 16–19 mpg
- Combined driving: typically 13–16 mpg
Gasoline variants tend to show stronger highway efficiency than city driving, with payload and towing markedly lowering overall fuel economy.
Diesel E-350 mpg ranges
- City driving: typically 12–15 mpg
- Highway driving: typically 17–22 mpg
- Combined driving: typically 15–19 mpg
Diesel versions, especially on the highway or with lighter payloads, generally deliver better efficiency than gasoline equivalents, though urban use can narrow the gap.
Factors that influence mpg on a 1998 E-350
Several variables can swing fuel economy, including engine type, payload, rear axle ratio, tire size, transmission, and maintenance. Heavier loads, frequent stops, and poor tire inflation typically reduce mpg, while steady highway cruising and proper upkeep help maximize it.
Practical tips to optimize fuel economy
To squeeze more miles per gallon, keep tires inflated to the recommended pressure, minimize idle time, remove unnecessary weight, use smooth, steady acceleration, and perform regular maintenance such as timely oil changes and air-filter replacements. If you track fuel usage, you’ll identify patterns that improve efficiency.
Bottom line
For a 1998 Ford E-350, mpg is not a one-size-fits-all number. Gasoline engines generally deliver lower mpg overall than diesels, with typical real-world ranges around 12–15 mpg combined for gas and 15–19 mpg combined for diesel, though highway figures can climb into the high teens or low 20s on diesel configurations with lighter payloads.
Summary: The 1998 Ford E-350’s fuel economy varies by engine and use case. Gasoline models usually sit in the low-to-mid teens MPG combined, while diesel models tend to be more efficient on highway driving, often reaching into the high teens or low 20s under favorable conditions. Always consider the specific engine, payload, and maintenance history when estimating real-world MPG.
