What engine is in a 1991 Ford Ranger?
In brief, the 1991 Ford Ranger offered three engine choices: a 2.3-liter inline-four, a 2.9-liter V6, or a 4.0-liter V6, with availability depending on trim and drivetrain.
For the 1991 model year, Ford positioned the Ranger as a versatile pickup that could be configured for economy, everyday work, or heavier hauling. The engine lineup reflected that range: the smallest four-cylinder emphasized efficiency, while the two V6 options provided progressively more torque and towing capability. Availability varied by body style, cab configuration, and whether the truck was two-wheel drive or four-wheel drive.
Engine options available
Before listing the main options, note that engine availability varied by trim level and drivetrain. The following three engines were commonly offered for the 1991 Ranger lineup.
- 2.3-liter inline-four — four-cylinder, electronic fuel injection, typically the most fuel-efficient option, roughly 105–125 horsepower depending on the setup.
- 2.9-liter V6 — V6 with electronic fuel injection, more power and torque than the four-cylinder, commonly around 150–160 horsepower.
- 4.0-liter V6 — larger V6 with electronic fuel injection, strongest option for towing and payload, generally around 160–170 horsepower.
In summary, buyers could choose among an efficient four-cylinder, a mid-range V6, or the larger V6 for heavier duty, depending on the Ranger’s trim and configuration.
Engine specifics by model variant
2.3-liter inline-four
The 2.3-liter inline-four was the baseline powerplant for many lighter-duty Rangers. It prioritized fuel economy and reliability, making it suitable for daily driving and light hauling in urban and suburban use.
2.9-liter V6
The 2.9-liter V6 offered a noticeable step up in torque over the 2.3, providing better acceleration and capability for mid-range towing and heavier loads without stepping up to the largest engine option.
4.0-liter V6
The 4.0-liter V6 was the top-of-the-line engine in the 1991 Ranger, delivering the most pulling power for people who needed to haul heavier loads or tow more substantial equipment. It was a common choice for buyers who used the Ranger for work around camps, farms, or construction sites.
Performance and practical implications
Engine choice in the 1991 Ranger had a direct impact on payload and towing capability as well as real-world fuel economy. The four-cylinder offered the best miles per gallon and lower operating costs, the 2.9L provided a balance of performance and efficiency, and the 4.0L delivered the strongest towing and hauling performance at the expense of some fuel economy.
Summary
The 1991 Ford Ranger could be equipped with three engines: a 2.3-liter inline-four, a 2.9-liter V6, or a 4.0-liter V6. Availability depended on trim and drivetrain, with the four-cylinder favoring efficiency, the 2.9L offering a middle ground, and the 4.0L delivering the most capability for heavier work. This engine lineup reflected Ford’s approach to the Ranger in the early 1990s, balancing everyday practicality with utility-focused power.
Is the 4.0 V-6 Ranger a good engine?
Reliability and Common Issues
One of the biggest features of the Ford engine 4.0L V6 that stands out is how reliable the engine has proven to be. Many drivers have reported that with proper maintenance, the engine has continued to be reliable long after hitting the 100,000-mile mark.
How much horsepower does a 1991 Ford Ranger 2.9 have?
Engine
| Horsepower | 140 hp @ 4,600 rpm |
|---|---|
| Torque | 170 lb-ft @ 2,600 rpm |
What motor does a 1991 Ford Ranger have?
The exciting Ranger STX. Impressive engineering credentials begin with a 3.0L V-6 in the 4x2 or a 2.9L V-6 in the 4-wheeler. Both engines are equipped with multi-port EFI and offer a choice of 5-speed manual or optional 4-speed automatic transmission.
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How much is a 1991 Ford Ranger worth today?
1991 Ford Ranger Value - $735-$6,953 | Edmunds.
