SCORGE

I understand why they do it. People always want something new and fresh. It is what it is. In a much simpler world...lol
I understand the saying, I work in an industry where innovation is key to our survival. I just wish there was a way to build a bullet proof platform and add the aesthetics and cosmetics that people want as the need calls for it. But then again..it's all about the almighty dollar.

GoldyGopher

It's also about safety, fuel economy, and ever-changing rules that need to be met. Add in some good competetition, and you have the reason ALL cars and trucks are sooo much better than they used to be. It's why a stock V6 Honda of today would blow the doors off a bone stock Camero from 1969, or today's F150 will go further, tow more, go faster than the ones from the 70's. And won't put the steering columb through your chest in a fender-bender. It's much more than just cosmetic.

ExplodingPigeon

I drove my (used) 1995 f-150 for 12 years and it looked pretty damn good when I sold it (351W 4x4 ext cab). Held it's value and was happy to get 6K for it. I really questioned whether I needed a new truck or not.

Then I bought my new (used) 2014 for 29K and damn what a difference. I actually didn't think I would enjoy a new vehicle so much, but what a difference. Crazy amounts faster, better gas mileage, can tow even more, it's way safer (side air bags and all), more comfortable and looks amazing. 2014 screw 4x4 3.5eb. Thankfully Ford doesn't think they've done enough and keep pushing.

That being said, I did pick the 2014 as the last year of a generation to give me a sense of security. Surprise! it has some 2015 parts and not 09-13.

Mod (Ret.)

So, did you buy another used same year, same optioned truck?

The manufacturers have to move forward with designs, otherwise no one would buy a new car. While we can debate the issues of why they (auto manufacturers) build new designs, we should also be aware that everyone is not driving a 1977 F100 because it is such a great truck (or not to some).

It would be a pretty dull world if the design aspect of automobiles/trucks were to stop after a given year run.

acdii

I was in a time crunch and could not find a 2014 Screw SB Lariat with low miles anywhere. All I did find were the 6.5 beds, or had way more miles than I would be comfortable with, considering how quickly I put the miles on. I settled on a new 2016, but not as happy with it as I should be. Considering I had to buy a new bedrug and topper anyway, I should have bought the one Platinum I saw, but it was further away from me than I had time for.

Eric Kleven

I think Nissan tried that with the Titan, minimal changes between it's 2005My debut and this past year with the re-design. It's not a recipe for shifting units off the dealership lots.

SCORGE

Yeah I see that. I guess I'm just simple lol

WXman

I was just going to post this about the Frontier. It's been unchanged for going on 13 model years now. They had some fairly serious issues the first few years and they've been bulletproof since then. Probably the best truck on the market honestly, and certainly the best value. A nicely equipped crew cab 4x4 goes for under $30K. I had one that I traded for this F150. I sometimes miss it.

But...the media bashes it for being "outdated" and "old" and doesn't give it a chance. And buyers want that latest and greatest thing. So, not a ton of Frontiers are sold.

kenv47

I think the Russians tried that stuff with the Lada, & also the Serbs did it with the marvel of automotive excellence----The Yugo

mcp

So which of the F150's are generally considered the best? I know last model years of a particular run usually are better, but I have no clue what truck(s) are considered the best models say in the last 20yrs. Obviously there is alot of difference in a 97 & 2014.... but you get the drift.

Reason I am asking... my cousin is considering getting a 4wd Super Crew... probably a later model, figured I'd ask what to look for and/or shy away from. Thx!