The first question most Ford Bronco fans asked when the 2021 model debuted was, “will there be a V8 option?” It seems Ford is finally answering that question (technically) with the 2023 Ford Bronco DR (Desert Racer). This new high-performance 4×4 is a Bronco by name but far from a production model. Instead, it is a limited-edition full-blown race car developed for the 2022 SCORE Baja 1000.
The Bronco DR is powered by a naturally aspirated Coyote 5.0-liter V8 built-up to produce over 400-hp. It uses the 10-speed automatic transmission and transfer case from an F-150 pickup truck to send power through a set of front and rear electronic locking differentials with 4:70 gearing. The body panels are fiberglass with a tubular metal front bumper with a single-piece grille to keep the truck light. The Ford Bronco DR also does not have glass in its windows or air conditioning. The Bronco DR travels on 37-inch BF Goodrich Mud-Terrain T/A KM3 tires wrapped around 17-inch Beadlock wheels to handle high-speed off-road driving. Ford claims the Bronco DR has over 50 percent more suspension travel over the production model.
With all these modifications, the Ford Bronco DR is not street legal. Ford announced only 50 examples of the Baja-ready Bronco DR would be built. Each vehicle features a special racing livery, and pricing is estimated at a quarter of a million dollars. Why is it so expensive? Because it’s a racecar.
In other automotive news, check out Aston Martin’s New Street-Legal Valkyrie Hypercar.
