1997 2.3 auto towing ability?

[TugBeemer]

For reference, looking for a small sized pickup, mainly to get me to work that won’t break the bank on gas, but that can also be able to haul my 16’ aluminum fishing boat and trailer comfortably on the weekends. I also have a little 500cc ATV I’d like to tow. I’ve found this 2.3 auto from 97’ with over 240,000 kms. It has 4:10 gearing if that helps.

1) Will the 2.3 struggle with the towing on long highway trips/ normal city driving?

2) I’m not looking for a 4.0 currently as they’re overpriced in my area and I heard they’re poor on gas, but would a 3.0 be a better option?

3) I was also looking at Chevy s10/ Sonoma if those are a better option.

 

[rusty ol ranger]

I dont think youll have an issue towing that stuff.

The 2.3 is weak but if youre paitent itll be ok.