Specifications for a 1989 Ford Ranger: Bed Size, Fuel Economy & History

The Ford Ranger stands as one of the most popular compact pickups to date and has logged a lengthy history of setting lofty sales records. Initially released in 1983, the Ranger navigated its first half-decade of production largely unchanged. However, this all changed in 1989, when Ford breathed new life into their miniature masterpiece, both mechanically and cosmetically.

For all intents and purposes, the 1989 model year served as a turning point for the Ranger, as it began morphing into the beloved compact pickup that most are familiar with today. This would ultimately allow the Ranger to take the title of America's best-selling compact truck, during the 1989 model year, which is a distinction the

The following is a comprehensive guide to the 1989 Ford Ranger, complete with specifications, highlights, and production numbers.

Mid-Generation Refresh

On the outside, the 1989 Ford Ranger was the benefactor of redesigned front fenders, as well as revised hood and grille assemblies. Also new were a pair of flush-mount headlights, and a larger, yet far more streamlined front bumper. Ford claimed that the bulk of these modifications was aimed at enhancing the Ranger´s aerodynamics.

The Ranger's interior also underwent quite the overhaul, gaining:

• New door panels and seats
• Redesigned dash, complete with a passenger side glove compartment.
• New instrument cluster was also introduced, which ultimately proved to be popular with consumers.

For the 1989 model year, Ford first introduced a fuel-injected, twin-spark-plug version of their Pinto series engine, which ultimately became a staple of the Ford truck line, remaining in rotation until 2001. Ford also began offering the Ranger with rear-wheel ABS during the 1989 model year.

What Are the Specifications of the Ford Ranger?

Specifications of the Ford Ranger will differ depending on the model and bed size.

What Engine Came In The 1989 Ford Ranger?

When purchasing a 1989 Ford Ranger, consumers were given a choice between the model ́s base 2.3L I4 powerplant, and an optional 2.9L V6. The former of these engines produced a maximum output of 100 HP at 4,600 RPM and 133 lb-ft of torque at 2,600 RPM. The latter, though only available in SuperCab models, churned out 140 HP at 4,600 RPM, and 170 lb-ft of torque at 2,600 RPM.

No matter one's choice of engine, the 1989 Ford Ranger could be optioned with either a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic. Both rear-wheel drive and part-time four-wheel drive Ranger derivatives were offered.

1989 Ford Ranger Fuel Economy

By today's standards, the 1989 Ford Ranger was not truly as fuel efficient as many would have hoped, though quite commendable by the standards of the day. Equipped with a manual transmission, the RWD Ranger, in its base configuration (regular-cab/short-bed), was EPA-rated at 21 mpg/city and 25 mpg/highway.

Those opting for the automatic transmission could expect to see those numbers drop to 18/22 MPG.

The V6-powered Ranger, when configured in an identical fashion, achieved a rated fuel economy of 16/22 MPG. Trading in the five-speed manual for an automatic gearbox dialed this rating down to 15/20 MPG.

The Ranger´s fuel economy decreased even more when optioned to include part-time 4WD. All four-cylinder 4WD Rangers were mandatorily equipped with manual transmissions, achieving 18/22 MPG. V6-powered Rangers optioned to include 4WD logged 16/20 MPG (manual), and 15/19 MPG (automatic), respectively.