In November, Ford and Jay Leno released a restored 1968 Bronco with the supercharged Shelby GT500 V8 under the hood. The reveal happened at last year’s SEMA Show in Las Vegas, but only recently did Leno upload a video to his YouTube channel about the iconic SUV, producing a close-up look at the high-powered SUV before he takes it for a spin.
Pushing 760 horsepower (566 kilowatts) under the hood of a vehicle that just over 100 hp (74 kW) 40 years ago is impressive in its own right. However, Ford went one step further with the Leno Bronco, combining the new mill with a five-speed manual gearbox, the first. In the GT500, it is paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Ford does not sell the supercharged 5.2-liter V8 as a box engine, making the Leno Bronco one of the few cases where the engine powers more than just a Mustang. There is a 1 of 1 plate on the motor.
The objective of the project was to keep the Bronco with the largest possible stock. Dark blue paint, white top, white wheels, and dog plate bucket covers help. Inside, the standard steering wheel remains while the rest of the interior, made from a light brown saddle, remains sparse. It has cup holders, and the radio is hidden in the center console. The original roll bar remains. The entire project took three months to complete, according to Leno.
4 4 Photos
At the end of the video, Leno takes the supercharged Bronco for a ride. It sounds vicious, with the front swaying up and down as Leno hits the gas. It’s a ridiculous combination that required a lot of work on the part of Ford and the builders to work properly, especially that five-speed gearbox. The final product looks like a lot of fun to handle.
