e450 or e350

[JZales]

Hello,
I pretty much decided on a 2016 forester 2301 but have the option of either the 350 or 450 engine. There's a $3,000 difference in price. I don't plan on towing a vehicle so I initially thought the 350 would be fine. However given the same weight I'm thinking the 450 would experience less wear over time. Moreover I do plan on driving in some mountainous regions so I would think the 450 would perform better.

I would appreciate any thoughts on this.

Thanks in advance.

John

[gasman94]

If it were me, I would opt for the 450. Besides motor, I believe that it has a heavier suspension which should increase your carrying and towing capacity. Also, when going through mountains/higher elevations, gas engines lose power as you increase elevation so if the 450 has the v10 with more horsepower, this is another reason to upgrade.

Rich

[Kevin & Judy]

E450
X2

[naysmitj]

I have never heard anyone complain that they bought a unit that had too much power.

[gasman94]

Originally Posted by naysmitj

I have never heard anyone complain that they bought a unit that had too much power.

X2

Rich

[Total Loss]

450 will have a bigger rear end, suspension and possibly rear frame section.
Motor and trans should be the same.
Possibly a different rear end gear ratio also.
Go to Ford's commercial website- they should outline the differences.

[gasman94]

Information here is a little dated, but I think it will give you an idea of what other rv'ers think
Good Sam Club Open Roads Forum: E-350 or E-450 Chassis for 24' Coach w/Slide

Rich

[JZales]

Thanks all. It's unanimous for the e450. Rich, thanks for the link. A lot of good info there.
John

[elynnkelley]

I have a 450 on a 2701 Forrester and have never felt I had too much power, especially in the NC mountains where we live. If it struggles, the 350 would certainly have a hard time. I would opt for the 450 for sure.

[vwexpert]

The Ford cutaway page shows the V10 / 6 speed trans drive train option also for the E350 (same as E450). So it's basically how beefy a chassis you want / need.

[RamblerGuy]

Will the E350 have a V-8 or a V-10? Even if it's a V-8, I doubt you would see any difference between the two in wear and tear. I would guess the V-8 will be fine a long as you own the RV. The V-8 will have to make the same power as the V-10 so I doubt there will be much difference in fuel consumption. I'd suggest don't worry about wear and tear or gas mileage, choose based on which is best for you.

[AbdRahim]

450. you will appreciate the extra umph. Besides, you may want to tow something Years from now and you will be prepared.