The SVT F-150 Lightning is a high-performance pickup truck with a supercharged V-8 engine and performance-tuned suspension.

Introduced as a 1993 model, the original SVT F-150 Lightning helped define the four hallmarks of a Special Vehicle Team product: performance, substance, exclusivity and value. Eleven years and two generations later, those same hallmarks make the 2004 SVT F-150 Lightning the best sport truck on the market. No other truck can match its combination of 380 horsepower and acceleration from zero to 60 mph in 5.2 seconds for under $35,000.

Lightning is built in Oakville, Ontario, Canada.

Design and Equipment:

The 2004 SVT Lightning has several distinct exterior features that set it apart from the rest of the F-150 lineup. Crystalline headlamps, clear turn signal lenses and SVT-signature round fog lamps in the vehicle’s unique front fascia project the Lightning’s attitude.

Complementing the face are unique clear taillamp lenses and a light-emitting-diode high-mounted stoplight. Lower rocker extensions, side-exit exhaust and unique 18-inch wheels and low-profile tires round out the exterior.

Inside, Lightning has a 60/40 split bench front seat. More aggressive side bolsters give better lateral support for spirited driving. Seating surfaces have Preferred Suede trim with textured Nudo leather inserts; the SVT logo is embroidered on the backrest. Other high-performance cues include SVT-signature electroluminescent gauges, brushed aluminum finish on the interior door handles and perforated-leather wrap on the steering wheel.

Powertrain and Chassis:

A 5.4-liter SOHC Triton™ V-8 powers the 2004 SVT F-150 Lightning. The Triton™ V-8 is paired with an Eaton™ supercharger and water-to-air intercooler, providing 380 horsepower at 4,750 rpm and 450 foot-pounds of torque at 3,250 rpm.

Transferring the power to the wheels is a four-speed automatic transmission, strengthened with the same internals used behind Ford’s heavy-duty truck engines. Routed through an aluminum driveshaft for increased strength, power is then transformed into acceleration by a 9-inch traction-lock differential with a 3.73:1 gear ratio.

Suspension and Brakes:

The 2004 SVT F-150 Lightning also benefits from performance-oriented chassis modifications. Bilstein gas-charged shocks are fitted at all four corners for their excellent control and ride characteristics. Unique suspension tuning also lowers the Lightning 2 inches in the rear and 1.5 inches in the front to improve the handling and give a more aggressive appearance.

The 12.1-inch, vented front rotors work with twin-piston calipers while the 13.1-inch, vented rear rotors are pinched by single-piston calipers. Both front and rear brake assemblies use a Lightning-exclusive pad for improved wear and heat dissipation. Four-wheel anti-lock brakes are standard.

Although it provides an American hot-rod driving experience, the SVT F-150 Lightning still retains the Built Ford Tough capabilities of the standard F-150. Accordingly, the Lightning is capable of pulling a 5,000-pound trailer or hauling nearly 1,400 pounds of payload.

Safety:

The SVT F-150 Lightning has as standard safety and security equipment dual front air bags, BeltMinder™, SecuriLock™, a battery saver feature and anti-lock brakes.

Major Equipment and Options:

Lightning standard features include: 5.4L supercharged V-8 engine, four-speed automatic transmission, anti-lock four-wheel disc brakes, tilt steering wheel, cruise control, 40/60 split-bench seat, Preferred Suede trim with Nudo leather seat inserts, power mirrors, windows and door locks, keyless entry, AM/FM/cassette/CD stereo and variable intermittent wipers.

Options are limited to a soft tonneau cover and a bed liner.

Story by Ford