Why don't we have actual small trucks any more? Best deep dive I've seen.

[Msfitoy]

This is the best answer to the question of why nobody builds little trucks like the 4g any more. (Spoiler: It's the EPA and CAFE standards)
This guy lays it out in a short, but complete explanation, while avoiding a lot of complicated math.
Well, he does show one equation, and some graphs, but it's a really good presentation.

Reminds me of how FIA killed F1...unintended consequences...

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[Msfitoy]

That looks soooo uncomfortable!

I would dig having one of these to go camping....

 

[ThatsAMonkey]

Not gonna lie, I'd likely trade my ranger in for one of those.

I wouldn't 100% depend on it as it looks like it'll be rough in the winter even with 4x4. I'm sure some beefy winter tires could help and throw something heavy in the bed. I used to be a mailman driving the LLV's so right hand driving is comfortable for me. Takes a bit to get used to but it's like anything else.

That looks soooo uncomfortable!

Just need some beaded seat covers!

 

[Canadian Ranger]

I haven't calculated my "real world" fuel economy in my 5G Ranger in a long time, but I'd bet next week's paycheck it's not as good as my 4G was.

 

[RedlandRanger]

While what he showed is true, the other variable is that manufacturers (including Ford) have found that larger trucks are quite a bit more profitable than cars are, which has also led to things getting larger. I'm sure there are other variables in the mix as well.

 

[Gerder]

All these three letter agencies should be dismantled and their employees sterilized.

Yeah! Let‘s start instantly at the NSA Headquarter and move strait over to the NRA Building!

 

[MountainGoat]

Yeah! Let‘s start instantly at the NSA Headquarter and move strait over to the NRA Building!

Lol thinking anyone cares about the NRA over here.

 

[veedubtuner]

These VW Rabbit pickups (aka Caddy) are fun and economical, I've had a few in my time. Would love another one, especially a "Sport Truck" version.

 

[bsr956]

The government could screw up an anvil with a wet rag.

Don't be so critical,,,,, rag doesn't have to be wet!!

 

[got3fords]

Yeah! Let‘s start instantly at the NSA Headquarter and move strait over to the NRA Building!

NRA is not a govt. agency.

 

[FunInTheSun]

While what he showed is true, the other variable is that manufacturers (including Ford) have found that larger trucks are quite a bit more profitable than cars are, which has also led to things getting larger. I'm sure there are other variables in the mix as well.

The OEMs obviously had some input into the equation. They were basically saying, if you gotta outlaw something, it's gonna be the little trucks, but you gotta make it feasible for us to sell SOME kind of trucks. An we sell a lot of the big ones. Note that the domestic OEMs have never paid these penalties. Only foreign manufacturers like Toyota, Nissan/ Datsun, Mazda, et al. There are no coincidences in politics.

 

[FunInTheSun]

Don't be so critical,,,,, rag doesn't have to be wet!!

Well... If you have a look at the detailed specifications for the wet rag, the specific moisture content is defined here as ">0.01% moisture content as defined in SAE 1004-32.147"

 

[bsr956]

My bad

 

[OFC Ranger]

Lol, you'd almost swear that is photoshopped.

Yea but that is a Super Duty. Photo would have more credibility if it was a bottom trim current Tacoma behind that older gen Tacoma.

An actual photo with a legit comparison;

All 3 gens. Not much difference in the Tacomos.

Now old Ranger vs new Ranger, still not all that drastic; (height is the big difference)

What people should bitch about are automatic inclusions of crap like lane keeping assist and pre-collision systems, etc etc

I promise that is adding thousands to the price tag that many people turn off those features when they buy the cars.

I'm not one of those "I want manual windows damnit!" people, I am all for electronics, but stop making me pay for the nanny stuff. Automatic high beams? Really? I'm sure the claim is all this stuff adds to overall safety, but I see it as making the driver dumber as time goes on.

 

[12Bravo20]

I can't lie, I do miss my 1983 Ford Ranger with dual fuel tanks. The 4 cylinder would go for ever on both tanks.

The new Rangers are not much narrower than the 97 F150 I had and are real close to the same height. My 97 F150 was longggggg since it was the extended cab with long bed (7ft).

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