1997 Ford F-Series F-150 X Regular Cab Dimensions, Size & Specs

The maximum weight of the 1997-2004 Ford F-Series F-150 X Regular Cab ranges from 2722 kg to 2994 kg (approximately 6004 to 6598 pounds). This substantial weight contributes to the vehicle's robust durability and towing capability, essential for a full-size pickup. The weight also influences handling characteristics; while it offers stability on highways and during towing, it may feel heavier during quick maneuvers compared to lighter vehicles. The chassis and suspension were designed to accommodate this weight efficiently, balancing load-carrying capacity with comfortable ride quality.

The Ford F-150 X Regular Cab offers impressive cargo versatility. With rear seats upright, the luggage or cargo volume stands between 1422 liters and 1659 liters (around 50.2 to 58.6 cubic feet). When the rear seats are folded down, cargo capacity increases significantly to about 2056 liters (approximately 72.6 cubic feet), providing ample space to transport larger loads or gear. This flexibility makes this truck ideal for both everyday hauling needs and specialized uses, allowing it to adapt to varying cargo sizes and shapes.

The 1997-2004 Ford F-Series F-150 X Regular Cab has a ground clearance ranging from 185 mm to 206 mm (approximately 7.3 to 8.1 inches). This level of ride height provides a good balance between off-road capability and on-road drivability. It is sufficiently high to clear rough terrains, obstacles, and uneven ground commonly encountered in work or recreational environments, while still being manageable for entry and exit in everyday use. Compared to competing pickups of its era, this F-150's clearance is competitive, enhancing its versatility for diverse driving conditions.

Given its size, the 1997-2004 Ford F-Series F-150 X Regular Cab may present challenges fitting into a standard single-car residential garage. With lengths between 5136 mm and 5263 mm (202.2 to 207.2 inches) and a width of about 2014 to 2017 mm (79.3 to 79.4 inches) excluding mirrors, it's longer and wider than many typical passenger vehicles. Standard garage depths often range around 5500 mm (about 216 inches), which might accommodate it, but the width might be tight, especially when adding room for door opening. Height (up to 1935 mm or 76.2 inches) usually does not pose an issue. Prospective owners should measure their garage space carefully before parking this truck inside.

The Ford F-150 X Regular Cab's rim sizes vary between 16 inches and 18 inches with widths of 7.0 to 9.5 inches, allowing a range of tire choices tailored to different driving needs. Tire options include 235/70 R16, 255/70 R16, and the wider 295/45 ZR18 tires. Smaller 16-inch rims and tires typically provide a smoother ride and better off-road capability due to larger tire sidewalls for absorbing bumps. The broader 295/45 ZR18 tires on 18-inch rims improve road grip and handling performance on pavement, lending the truck a sportier, more aggressive appearance. These options give buyers flexibility in balancing comfort, performance, and style.

Compared to its predecessor generation (the ninth generation F-Series produced up to 1996), the 1997-2004 F-150 X Regular Cab features modest dimensional increases. The newer generation trucks are typically slightly longer and wider, improving interior space and cargo bed dimensions without significantly impacting maneuverability. There were also advances in payload capacity, ride comfort, and structural rigidity. This generation introduced enhanced safety features and updated styling while maintaining the rugged utility that defined the previous models. Overall, it offered a more modern driving experience with incremental size enhancements and improved capability.

Within the full-size pickup segment from 1997 to 2004, the Ford F-150 X Regular Cab competes closely with models like the Chevrolet Silverado, Dodge Ram, and Toyota Tundra of that era. Dimensionally, the F-150 is comparable or slightly larger in length and width, offering robust cargo capacity and competitive towing and payload ratings. The F-150’s ground clearance and versatile rim/tire combinations boost its adaptability across on-road and off-road conditions. It strikes a balance between work truck ruggedness and comfort better than many peers, often leading sales due to its reputation, reliability, and dealer network.

The regular cab configuration of the 1997-2004 Ford F-150 X means the truck features a single row of seating, prioritizing the bed length and cargo area over passenger capacity. This setup typically seats two to three passengers and offers more bed space compared to extended or crew cabs, making it ideal for users needing serious cargo hauling capability without extra interior passenger room. It's often favored by commercial users, contractors, and others who require maximum bed length for tools, equipment, or materials rather than passenger seating.

The 1997-2004 Ford F-Series F-150 X Regular Cab presents a ground clearance range from 185 mm to 206 mm (7.3 to 8.1 inches), providing sufficient clearance for navigating rugged terrains, dirt roads, and construction sites without frequent undercarriage contact. This clearance supports off-road use and helps when driving over obstacles. In addition, its luggage capacity spans from 1422 to 1659 liters (50.2 to 58.6 cubic feet) with seats upright, expanding to 2056 liters (72.6 cubic feet) when rear seats are folded. Such ample storage space combined with solid clearance and rugged suspension makes it a versatile workhorse suitable for a variety of demanding environments.