Buying advice for newer E-350 wagon

It's time to buy a newer stretch van after owning my present 84 Dodge for 15 years. Too many repairs, including major, for only 150k miles.
I'm getting the feeling that a Ford may be a better vehicle.
A stretch wagon is my need and not much older that 5 years. This is used for road trips with a few people and not a lot of weight. No pulling of trailers.

Questions that needing answers:
Are certain years bad or good?
Major improvements after a certain year?
Good engines? I believe that I should avoid the 6 cylinder
Transmission?
Other major problems?
Costly repair of certain components vs another?

Thank you in advance,
Eric

With the "350" vans, you will get one of three enignes, 5.4L V-8, 6.8L V-10, or the 7.3L V-8 diesel.

Of your choices, if you are driving any distances, the 7.3L diesel is the BEST choice eventhough you will pay a significant premium for it. The transmissions in all these vans is the same, a 4R100. They are durable, but do not like being overheated, so pass on anything with a hitch, and check the fluid before you buy. It should be bright red to pink, and not smell burned at all.