Comparing All the F-150 Trim Levels
The Ford F-150 is an American staple and every year it grows more and more popular. If you are interested in purchasing one this year, you need to know about the differences in the trims available. This will allow you to better choose the right Ford F-150 to meet your goals and ensure you are happy with your selection for years to come.
Great Features in the 2017 Ford F-150
In 2015, the Ford motor company forever changed the entire pickup truck playing field with the release of the Ford F-150 body with its military-grade aluminum alloy, instead of the ordinary steel construction. In 2016, the company led the whole class of pickups in maximum payload cap. and fuel economy by setting a new standard in both regards. Plus, they made it easier than ever before to hitch a trailer with their totally original Pro-Trailer Backup Assist.
With the growing popularity and universal praise of Ford’s new SYNC 3 connectivity platform, the company has some exciting news for prospective Ford buyers. Starting with the 2017 model year, all Ford vehicles will be offered with SYNC 3, allowing compatibility with Apple’s CarPlay and the Android Auto set of apps. This is exciting news for buyers who may have previously had to choose between the car, truck or SUV they wanted, and a different vehicle or higher trim level to get the SYNC 3 platform. With SYNC 3 offered on every vehicle, now there’s no need to compromise or upgrade to get access to this amazing new platform, along with the Apple CarPlay and Android Auto offerings.
Benefits of Ford SYNC
What Are the Benefits of Ford SYNC?
The Ford SYNC system has been around since the 2008 model year, and it keeps getting better. In fact, when it was first introduced in the 2008 model year, SYNC was generally considered one of the best hands-free systems on the market. Now, with the introduction of the latest generation Ford SYNC 3®, this communication and infotainment system once again becomes one of the most comprehensive and easy-to-use voice command systems available.
5 Reasons to Buy the Upgraded 2016 Ford Explorer
The Ford Explorer’s last update prior to the 2016 model was back in 2011. This year, the iconic vehicle gets a fresh look with sleek styling and a new luxury Platinum level for those who want nothing but the best. If you haven’t taken a close look at the Explorer recently, this is the year to do it. You’ll find fresh engine options, new technology, and plenty of comfortable extras to draw you in.
Shoot for the Cars 2016
Here at Ted Russell Ford, we knew that our Shoot for the Cars 2016 event would be a big hit. What we had no way of knowing was just what a heart-warming story it would turn out to be. Truth is, we might not have known just how inspiring the story was if the winner’s friend hadn’t taken the time to fill in some of the details for us.
Micah Ballard of Maryville was the last man standing in the free throw shooting contest and took home a brand new 2016 Ford Mustang. More about that later…
Get the Fundamentals Right
According to a letter received by a lifelong friend of Ballard’s, Micah has basketball in his genes. His father, Stan, was a standout basketball player in high school and went on to play for Roane State and Maryville College. He followed that up with a distinguished high school coaching career in East Tennessee.
Micah caught his father’s love of the game from an early age. According to the letter, Coach Stan “emphasized the fundamentals.”
Unfortunately, Stan passed away after a battle with cancer between eight and nine years ago. The loss is undoubtedly still felt by Micah and the rest of the Ballard family, as well as the many young people to whom Stan “emphasized the fundamentals.”
We could not agree more with Coach Stan’s emphasis.
Whether on the basketball court, the car lot or in any other endeavor in life, you can’t go wrong when you get the basics right. The fundamentals are always the building blocks that make for winners.
For basketball players, that means dribbling, practicing form, passing and – of course – shooting lots of free throws. Clearly, the emphasis on the fundamentals worked with Micah, who outlasted more than 60 competitors during the Shoot for the Stars Apr. 11. In the car dealership, getting the fundamentals right means knowing your product, providing superior customer service, and giving people no-nonsense, no-pressure treatment.
The Rewards of Getting it Right
For Micah, the rewards of getting the fundamentals right were, ultimately, his pick of six brand new vehicles from Ted Russell. Ballard was invited to take his pick of:
- 2016 Ford Fusion
- 2016 Ford Focus
- 2016 Ford Fiesta
- 2016 Ford C-Max
- 2016 Ford Taurus
- 2016 For Mustang
Ultimately, he chose the Mustang (and, seriously, what young man wouldn’t?).
At Ted Russell, knowing that we’ve served our customers well and that they are happy and satisfied with their new or quality pre-owned vehicle is its own reward; we realize that the only way to stay in the game for the long haul – in basketball or car sales – is to do the right things right.
It Takes a Team
It takes a team to put forward a winning effort or to put on a top-notch event or promotion. The 2016 Shoot for the Cars was no exception. Some of the other businesses and organizations partnering with Ted Russell Ford include SouthEast Bank, KIVK FM 107.7 – The Frog, Food City in Mayville, Hardee’s on Emory Rd., Popeye’s on Clinton and more. WVLT-TV also helped promote the event, including airing the final event on the 6 o’clock news.
While winning a brand new Mustang is undeniably the best way to get one, it’s not the only way by any means. At Ted Russell Ford, our friendly and courteous sales professionals are always happy to help put you in the driver’s seat of a new Ford or a quality pre-owned vehicle. And remember to keep your eyes and ears open for future promotional events from your friendly Ford dealership, Ted Russell Ford.
5 Most Popular Fords in History
Founded by Henry Ford and a handful of investors in 1903, the Ford Motor Company is still one of the most recognized and reputable brands in the world over 100 years later. The company’s dedication to engineering ingenuity, research, and innovation has led to numerous models that pushed the limits of car manufacturing and branded their name in the hearts and minds of consumers. Over this time, Ford produced some models that failed and others that embody the spirit of the company. Here are just a few of their most popular models of all time.
Model T
You can’t have any discussion about Ford without starting with where it all began: the Model T. Although this wasn’t Ford’s first car ever made, as it followed the Model A, the Model T was the beginning of an automotive empire. The car rolled out of the factory beginning in 1908 and immediately gained a popularity as an affordable (from $260 to $850), middle-class car. Before the Model T, many automakers existed, but only used highly specialized professionals to craft the car. With the Model T, Henry Ford implemented an assembly line system, which led to lower costs, a modest price, and sales of 16.5 million units. This classic automobile lasted until 1927.
F-Series
In 1948, Ford manufactured one of the first pickups that wasn’t based on the body of a car. The result was one that lasts until this very day. As the best-selling vehicle in the country for 24 years, the top-selling pickup for 34 years, and the most purchased vehicle of 2015, the F-150 was just as relevant over 65 years ago as it is today. Perhaps the biggest reason for its success was a number of innovations over the years, resulting in the unveiling of a 13th generation of the F-Series in 2015. The F-150’s roost at the top of the automotive industry doesn’t appear like it will end any time soon. It’s very presence is symbolic of American pride and automotive might.
Mustang
The muscle car is one of the true American inventions, and nothing represents the era quite like the Ford Mustang. The mention of the Mustang name invokes speed, handling, and one of the most attractive cars ever built. First produced in 1964, the Mustang was actually a mishmash of components of other Ford vehicles, namely the Ford Falcon and Ford Fairlane, mixed with a powerful engine and a strikingly attractive body. Today, the Mustang is still one of Ford’s top sellers and enters its latest generation with a body style reminiscent of the original. However, perhaps the one aspect that Ford and other automakers will never match is the Mustang’s contribution to pop culture. First seen in the James Bond film Goldfinger and in many iconic movies since, the Mustang is synonymous with youth, power, and class.
Thunderbird
If you feel like the Mustang is the breadwinner of the Ford lineup, the Thunderbird isn’t far behind. First produced in 1955 as a response to the Chevy Corvette, the Thunderbird was an attractive two-seater that began the idea of the personal luxury car, which valued looks over practicality. The first-generation, manufactured from 1955 to 1957 is still one of the most valuable American collector cars in existence, with many fetching six-figure prices. Over the years, the brand name diminished as Ford strayed from the original vision in favor of boat-like four-door models. In 1997, the Thunderbird had essentially lost its identity, and attempts to revive the two-door model from 2002 to 2005 ultimately failed. However, reminders of the legendary Thunderbird name are still seen today in items from toys to high school mascots.
Taurus
The Taurus name doesn’t exactly excite most car enthusiasts, but its role in the history of Ford is perhaps the most important of all. In the mid-1980s, when Japanese automakers were designing fuel-efficient cars that appealed to the American masses, Ford floundered. Nothing it did seem to boost sales, and concern grew over the future of the company. However, in 1986 Ford developed the Taurus that provided many new innovations. Some of these included front-wheel drive, easy-to-use controls, a fully customizable interior, and a choice of either a V6 or an inline four-cylinder engine. As a result, the Taurus single-handedly revived Ford, and today it remains a staple of the Ford lineup and their fourth-best selling vehicle of all-time.
It’s difficult to compile a list of the most popular Fords in history without writing a 100-page thesis. Each model has its own special place in the minds of owners and Ford enthusiasts alike. While these vehicles have withstood the test of time, it will be fascinating to see where the company goes in the future.
Thrill Seekers Unite! Adventures in Tennessee
You don’t have to travel far to get an adrenaline rush. There’s plenty to do right here in the Knoxville area to get your blood pumping. If you’re looking for a thrill, here are five of the best adrenaline rushes within easy driving distance of Knoxville:
- Outdoor Rafting Adventures.Sure, plenty of tourists go for the kiddie rapids, but we have some of the best Cat-3 and Cat-4 rapids on the Pigeon River, less than an hour’s drive. While there are lots of companies in the area that offer rafting tours, Outdoor Rafting Adventures is the place to go if you’re looking for the ride of your life. In between heart-in-your-chest white knuckle rafting through the white water, there’s also plenty of opportunity to see the Smoky Mountains like you’ve never seen them before – some would say it’s the only way to really experience ‘em
- The Sinks.It’s a shame there isn’t any true bungee jumping in Great Smokey National Park. What there is, though, is almost as good. Try cliff jumping at The Sinks. Don’t get too close to the waterfall – the current’s too strong to swim right up by it. The hike in and out offers fantastic scenery. And if you go at the right time of year, there’s plenty of bear. Again, don’t get too close or you could give yourself more adrenaline rush than you want.
- Wahoo Ziplines.They’re billed as “the wildest zipline in the Smokies” and we have every reason to believe it. With speeds upwards of 40 miles per hour (which feels like it’s a lot faster when you’re in the air) and over two miles of cable split into six lines. You need reservations, but they’re open every day except Christmas and Thanksgiving. Best of all, Wahoo Ziplines is just over in Sevierville.
- Knoxville Hang Gliding.Sometimes you don’t need bone jarring speed to get the adrenaline pumping. Hang gliding is the perfect adrenaline sport, especially in the Smoky Mountains. And if you’re going to try hang gliding in this area, Knoxville Hang Gliding is the place to try it. New to hang gliding? They offer tandem flights. Want to learn hang gliding? They give intensive lessons to get you up and going. If you’ve ever wondered what the eagles feel like flying over the valleys, Knoxville Hang Gliding can help you experience it.
- Skydive Smoky Mountains.On the other hand, sometimes you feel the need for speed. If you’re an adrenaline junkie who has never gone skydiving, you owe it to yourself. And even if you’re an experienced skydiver, if you haven’t been in the Smoky Mountains, you don’t know what you’re missing. Skydiving in the mountains presents some unique challenges, but Skydive Smoky Mountains can work with you and have you ready, whether you’re an expert jumper or trying it for the first time.
Bonus:Once you’ve tried all that and you’re still thirsting for an adrenaline rush, soup up your Mustang (you do have a Ford Mustang, right?) and sign on to compete at the Knoxville Dragstrip. Who knows? You might even walk away with some extra cash.
Don’t have a Mustang to soup up? Head over to Ted Russell Ford Lincoln Kingston to check out our wide selection of new and used Mustangs. Drive a Mustang and feed the adrenaline rush every day – on and off the track (just keep it close to the speed limit on the roads… there’s nothing to kill an adrenaline rush like red and blue lights in the rearview mirror).
Since its introduction in 1964, the Ford Mustang has enjoyed a long and illustrious run as one of America’s top muscle cars. Each generation of the Ford Mustang brings forth great leaps in technology, design and comfort. Yet among the population, there seems to be no middle ground, as Mustang fans are unwavering in their dedication while the critics continue to pan Ford’s efforts. Whichever side of the fence you’re on, it’s almost impossible to deny the Mustang’s overwhelming success. The 2016 model is no exception, as it comes in 5 different trim levels; two of which, the GT and EcoBoost, we’ll be comparing.
The Design
For the most part, both the GT and EcoBoost trim level designs are identical. Exterior and interior dimension are the same, as is the choice of colors, 10 exterior and 4 interior. The main difference is that the GT comes equipped with turn signals that are mounted in the hood vents, and is slightly heavier in weight than the EcoBoost.
| GT | EcoBoost | |
| ENGINE TYPE | Gas | Gas |
| FUEL TANK CAPACITY | 16.0 gal. | 15.5 gal. |
| EPA MILEAGE EST. (CTY/HWY) | 15/25 mpg | 22/31 mpg |
| ENGINE TYPE | Gas | Gas |
| FUEL TANK CAPACITY | 16.0 gal. | 15.5 gal. |
| EPA MILEAGE EST. (CTY/HWY) | 15/25 mpg | 22/31 mpg |
| CARGO CAPACITY, ALL SEATS IN PLACE | 13.5 cu.ft. | 13.5 cu.ft. |
| CURB WEIGHT | 3705 lbs. | 3532 lbs |
The Mustang GT also gets its own exclusive bundle, dedicated to customers in need of a stealthier look. Dubbed the Black Accent Package, it enhances GT fastback and convertible models with 19-inch, black-painted alloy wheels, a black decklid spoiler, smoked taillight trim, and 5.0 and pony logos in black.
The Difference Is In the Performance
The most definitive differences between the 2016 Ford Mustang GT and EcoBoost lay under the hood. The GT version comes standard with 5.0L V8, the EcoBoost contains a 2.3 liter four cylinder turbocharged Ecoboost engine.
Engine and Performance
| BASE ENGINE SIZE | 5.0 L | 2.3 L |
| CYLINDERS | V8 | Inline 4 |
| VALVE TIMING | Variable | Variable |
| HORSEPOWER | 435 hp @ 6500 rpm | 310 hp @ 5500 rpm |
| CAM TYPE | Double overhead cam (DOHC) | Double overhead cam (DOHC) |
| VALVES | 32 | 16 |
| TORQUE | 400 ft-lbs. @ 4250 rpm | 320 ft-lbs. @ 3000 rpm |
| TURNING CIRCLE | 37.8 ft. | 36.5 ft. |
| 0-60 MPH | 4.5 seconds | 5.2 seconds |
Drive Train
| DRIVE TYPE | Rear wheel drive | Rear wheel drive |
| TRANSMISSION | 6-speed manual | 6-speed manuale |
In addition, both trim levels come with four-wheel independent suspension and Front and rear stabilizer bar.
Then There’s the Options
Why would you buy a car, let alone a Mustang, if you couldn’t add some customizations? Each of these two 2016 Ford Mustang trim levels have their own packages you can choose from.
| GT Packages | EcoBoost Packages |
| Black Accent Package | Wheel & Stripe Package |
| Interior & Wheel Package | EcoBoost Performance Package |
| Equipment Group 300A | Equipment Group 100A |
| Enhanced Security Package | Enhanced Security Package |
| Interior & Wheel Package |
The GT trim also has a couple extra options not available to the EcoBoost. These options include GT Performance Package Wheel Finish and a 3.55 Limited-Slip Rear Axle.
Whether you choose the 2016 Ford Mustang GT, the EcoBoost or one of the other trim levels is up to you. When you’re ready to make that decision, or you just have some questions, feel free to call us at 865-693-7611. If you’d rather chat in person, swing by. You’ll find us at 8551 Kingston Pike in Knoxville, TN. We’ll make sure you get financed and into that new 2016 Ford Mustang in no time.
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