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How much was a 1998 Ford Expedition new?

A 1998 Ford Expedition started around $25,000 when new, with higher-trim versions and options pushing the price into the low $30,000s.


Pricing by trim


Ford offered a few primary trims for the 1998 Expedition. The following figures reflect typical Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Prices (MSRPs) from period brochures and automotive outlets, before regional taxes and dealer incentives.



  • XL — approximately $25,000 to $26,000

  • XLT — approximately $28,000 to $31,000

  • Eddie Bauer — approximately $32,000 to $34,000


These ranges illustrate how trim level and equipment choices influenced the sticker price. Real-world prices could vary by dealer, region, and optional packages.


Context and inflation


Prices from 1998, when adjusted for inflation, would be higher in today's dollars. In broad terms, a base XL that started near $25,000 in 1998 would be roughly in the mid‑$40,000s today, while well-equipped trims could push toward or beyond the $50,000 mark depending on the inflation measure used.


Inflation-adjusted figures


Using general CPI-based calculations, approximate contemporary equivalents are:
- XL: roughly $45,000–$50,000
- XLT: roughly $50,000–$55,000
- Eddie Bauer: roughly $55,000–$60,000+


Summary


In its 1998 lineup, the Ford Expedition launched with a base price around $25,000, climbed into the low $30,000s for higher trims, and varied with options. When viewed through today’s lens, those prices translate to a significantly higher sticker in inflation-adjusted dollars, reflecting both model positioning and equipment choices from that era.

What was the original price of a '98 Expedition?


1998 Ford Expedition pricing starts at $1,960 for the Expedition Sport Utility 4D, which had a starting MSRP of $31,225 when new. The range-topping 1998 Expedition Sport Utility 4D starts at $1,960 today, originally priced from $31,225.



What is a 1998 Ford Expedition worth?


The value of a 1998 Ford Expedition varies significantly, but it typically ranges from roughly $3,800 to $5,000 on average for vehicles in good condition, while trade-in values are much lower, around $1,700 to $2,200. Specific factors like trim level, mileage, overall condition, and vehicle history will cause the final price to fluctuate, so getting an appraisal from a service like Edmunds or Kelley Blue Book is recommended.
 
Factors that influence value

  • Mileage: Vehicles with lower mileage are worth more. 
  • Condition: The physical condition of the vehicle, including body, engine, and interior, is a major factor. A vehicle in "Outstanding" condition will be worth significantly more than one in "Rough" condition. 
  • Trim level: The Eddie Bauer trim was originally more expensive and is generally worth more than the XLT. 
  • Vehicle history: Accidents, title issues, and the number of previous owners can negatively impact the value. 
  • Location: Geographic location and local market demand will affect the final price. 
  • Optional features: The presence of optional features can increase the vehicle's value. 

How to determine the value
To get the most accurate estimate for your specific 1998 Ford Expedition, you can use one of the appraisal tools mentioned by Edmunds, Kelley Blue Book, or CarMax. These tools will provide a more tailored valuation based on your vehicle's details.



How many miles will a 1998 Ford Expedition last?


200,000 to 300,000 miles
Typical Lifespan of a Ford Expedition
On average, a Ford Expedition can last 200,000 to 300,000 miles or more with proper maintenance. For many drivers, this translates to 15–20 years of use if you drive approximately 15,000 miles per year.



Was the 1998 Expedition a good SUV?


As a whole, consumers found the vehicle's comfort and reliability to be its strongest features and value to be its weakest. 559 out of 831 of owners (67% of them) rank the 1998 Expedition five out of five stars.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.