What is the gas mileage on a 1995 Ford E350?
In brief, the 1995 Ford E-350’s mileage varies widely by engine and configuration. Expect roughly low-teens to mid-teens miles per gallon, with lighter engine options tending toward the higher end and the large V8s pulling the combined average down. Real-world results depend heavily on payload, tire choice, and driving habits.
Engine options and typical mpg ranges
Below are typical EPA-era ranges by engine and drivetrain for the 1995 E-350. These are approximate figures; actual mileage will vary with load, terrain, and maintenance.
- 4.9L inline-six (300) with 4-speed automatic, rear-wheel drive (RWD). Estimated: City 14–16 mpg, Highway 18–21 mpg, Combined 16–18 mpg.
- 5.8L V8 (351W) with 4-speed automatic. Estimated: City 11–12 mpg, Highway 15–18 mpg, Combined 13–15 mpg.
- 7.5L V8 (460) with 4-speed automatic. Estimated: City 9–11 mpg, Highway 12–15 mpg, Combined 11–13 mpg.
Note: Dual rear wheel (DRW) configurations and heavier payloads typically reduce mileage modestly across engines.
Maximizing fuel efficiency in a 1995 E-350
Owners and mechanics commonly emphasize a few practical steps to improve mileage on older vans like the E-350. The following list highlights proven practices for this era of vehicle.
- Keep tires inflated to the recommended pressure; under-inflation increases rolling resistance and lowers mpg.
- Reduce payload when possible—remove unnecessary equipment and lightweight materials where safe and practical.
- Maintain the engine with regular tune-ups, including spark plugs, air and fuel filters, and the correct oil viscosity for the climate.
- Use the recommended fuel grade and avoid excessive weight in the cargo area, which can dramatically impact efficiency.
- Drive smoothly: gradual acceleration, steady speeds, and prudent use of cruise control on highways can improve fuel economy.
- Consider tires with low rolling resistance and ensure proper alignment and braking systems are in good condition.
Even with these optimizations, the fundamental factors—engine displacement and overall vehicle weight—keep the mpg figures modest. Real-world results typically stay in the low-to-mid-teens in mixed driving, with highway numbers higher when the van is lightly loaded.
Where to find official figures and real-world numbers
Official EPA ratings for the 1995 E-350 come from the era’s test methods and vary by engine. Look for period Ford brochures, archived EPA data, or contemporary road tests for exact numbers by configuration. In practice, owners and enthusiasts share a wide range of observed figures depending on payload, terrain, and maintenance history.
Summary
The 1995 Ford E-350’s gas mileage hinges on engine choice and configuration. The 4.9L inline-six offers the best efficiency among common setups, while the 5.8L and especially the 7.5L V8 deliver noticeably lower fuel economy. With typical payloads and highway cruising, expect roughly the low-to-mid-teens MPG, with variations driven by load, tire condition, and driving style. Regular maintenance and mindful loading can help eke out a few extra miles per gallon, but the vehicle’s size and powertrain limits keep figures modest.
