The Ford Bronco as we know it s a purpose-built off-road SUV, but it underwent quite a few iterations throughout its life, from quirky concepts to the production vehicles that actually made it off the line. One such model is a Ford Super Duty based Bronco concept that’s one-of-a-kind, giving a glimpse at what might’ve been.
The Ford Bronco concept is part of the Ford Heritage Collection, documented by Late Model Restoration on YouTube. It was built in 1998 based on the Super Duty, harnessing a V10 engine paired with a manual transmission. It started as a SuperCab short-bed pickup, but after some chopping and welding, it was turned into a two-door Bronco. Interestingly, while it was sliced up, the rear door still works.
At one point, this Ford Bronco concept supposedly had a fiberglass cap, but it was since replaced with a non-removable top. It runs and drives perfectly fine, although Ford representatives note that it needs some love to become roadworthy again. After all, it was parked for decades, and never saw the light of day outside of design studios until it was added to the Heritage Collection. Particularly, its throw-out bearing and master cylinder aren’t up to snuff, so it would need some TLC to get up and running again.
An unnamed Ford exec fell in love with the concept vehicle – understandably so – and actually commissioned a second one for themselves. They employed the same company that built the concept to create their Bronco.
Naturally, this Ford Bronco concept bears a striking similarity to the Bronco Boss concept, which was designed in 1992 and sported a number of futuristic touches like its retractable roof. At the time, the idea of a removable or retractable roof was quite novel, as there wasn’t anything like it on the market. That model was also more pickup than SUV, although it wasn’t nearly as “Super Duty” as the one seen here.
Largely using suspension mods, plus a tune.
Helping to prevent damage from occurring.
It seemingly struck a chord with viewers.
The idea is to monitor risk and prevent disruptions rather than reacting to them.
A true value proposition, though it's limited to just 700 units.
Workers claim they aren't being paid for donning mandatory footwear.
View Comments
That is sweet; SWB, V10, manual.
The most intersting Custom Car Built by a Ford Executive was back in the 70's. A Metallic Pink Ford Maverick, with a V-8 (not an option yet) 4-spped manual, with a complete Pink leather interior.
It was a Hight School Graduation gift for a VP's daughter.