1988 vs 1998

[pengyou]

What is the difference between a 1988 extended astro and a 1998 astro? I know...10 years...got the math part down But assuming they are both in good condition, are they about the same size? Same suspension?

[Kidhauler]

The size is the same. They changed the front end so it is a little longer but the body of the van is the same. The suspension on the 98 will have steel leafs in the back compared to the composite ones on the 88. The 98 suspension sucks plain and simple it is pathetic. I have had a 89,90,91 and now have a 99 I would happily tear out the steel leafs and go back to the single composite they handle weight alot better. If your not going to tow or load it up with 800lbs or more the steel springs due give a nice ride untill you hit a corner then it wallows and sways like a fat drunk chick trying to run to the buffet.

The 98 will have alot more power and better pollution control as well as extra power ports in the dash and one in the back.

[rlsllc]

I didn't think the EXT vans came out until 1990.

[pengyou]

Thanks! Did the 89-90's come with electronic controls for the transmission?

[Cobra]

not as far as i know, i believe it isn't untill 92 or 93 that they used 4L60E's but i'm not sure

[LiftedAWDAstro]

The 4L60E came i out in the 93 Astros. Before that they had the 700R4. The EXT's as well as AWD's came out in 1990. Starting in 95, they no longer made the shorties.

The 98 has the longer front end, better dash, dual air bags in front, 7.625" 28 spline rear axle (slightly stronger) and a beefier transmission. It is the better choice in my opinion.

[LaGrasta]

I have a '98. As for suspension, I installed Edelbrock shocks with a anti-sway bar that made it more than respectable on the street AND dirt, although a bit firm according to anyone riding on the third bench seat. LOL.
For towing/hauling, a pair of AirLift adjustable bags took that task as far as I've ever needed it. IIRC, they add an additional 2500lbs!

[pengyou]

The 98 has the longer front end, better dash, dual air bags in front, 7.625" 28 spline rear axle (slightly stronger) and a beefier transmission. It is the better choice in my opinion.

Was it the 96 or the 98? I know that my 96 has dual airbags.

[LiftedAWDAstro]

The original question was about a 1988 and a 1998.

[Cobra]

LaGrasta and I are both running 98's and enjoying it if i have to pick up another AWD i'd go 97 or 98 ONLY personally i think they are the best years. Like lifted said 98 is the way to go

[reaper]

it wallows and sways like a fat drunk chick trying to run to the buffet.

I thought you were married??