The 1979 Ford Bronco represents the peak of the truck’s second-generation design, an era where the platform moved to a larger chassis to dominate both the trail and the street. This specific example has undergone a comprehensive nut-and-bolt, frame-off rotisserie restoration, with only 2,800 miles added since completion. Built to a world-class standard, the vehicle spent most of its life in the dry climate of Las Vegas, ensuring a solid foundation for its high-end revival. Now prepared for the Indy 2026 auction on Saturday, May 9th, it combines the brute force of a fuel-injected V8 with the sophisticated comforts of a modern luxury SUV.
Aggressive Stance in Matte Gray
The exterior design of this Bronco is defined by a towering silhouette, achieved through a 6-inch body lift paired with a Rough Country suspension system. Finished in a modern Gray, the bodywork highlights the squared-off proportions and muscular presence that made the 1978-1979 models so iconic. The aesthetic is modernized with 17-inch Black Rock Series Matte Black wheels and a full suite of undercarriage LED lighting for a dramatic nighttime presence. Functional upgrades like Wild Horses 4X4 tie rods and a heavy-duty drag link ensure the massive ride height is matched by structural integrity and trail-ready durability.
Custom Cabin with Modern Amenities
Inside the cabin, the environment has been completely reimagined with a Black interior that prioritizes comfort without sacrificing its rugged heritage. Modern technology is seamlessly integrated through a Dakota Digital dash and a Kenwood Bluetooth stereo system, providing precise data and contemporary entertainment. The climate is managed by a Vintage Air system by Nostalgic AC Parts, while heated seats and a tilt steering column elevate the daily driving experience. Every wire was replaced using an American Autowire harness, ensuring that the luxury appointments and electronic aids function with factory-level reliability.
Fuel Injected 400 V8 Performance
The mechanical heart of this machine is a professionally built 400 CI V-8 engine, crafted by Faults Machine Shop in Las Vegas. Upgraded with a FiTech fuel injection system for turn-key reliability, the engine is factory rated at 380 hp/385 PS and approximately 400 lb-ft/542 Nm. Power is managed by a robust C6 automatic transmission, delivering a smooth yet authoritative feel whether on the highway or in the dirt. Deceleration is handled by 4-wheel power disc brakes, a critical safety upgrade that provides the stopping power necessary for a vehicle of this scale and performance potential.
Technical Specifications
| Technical Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 400 CI V-8 |
| Induction | FiTech Fuel Injection |
| Horsepower/Torque | 380 hp/385 PS and 400 lb-ft/542 Nm (Estimated) |
| Transmission | C6 Automatic |
| Suspension | 6-Inch Rough Country Lift |
| Braking | 4-Wheel Power Disc Brakes |
| Steering | Power Assisted |
| Wheels | 17-Inch Black Rock Series |
Dominating the Full Size Classic Market
In the current collector market, the second-generation Bronco has seen a massive surge in value, often outpacing its smaller predecessors due to its superior interior space and towing capacity. This restomod variant holds a unique selling point by eliminating the carbureted temperaments of the seventies in favor of modern EFI reliability. Compared to stock survivors, this “Indy-bound” 1979 Ford Bronco offers a turnkey experience that rivals the amenities of a modern Raptor while maintaining the timeless sheet metal of the late seventies. It represents a premier investment for those seeking a flagship-level vintage 4×4.
The Ultimate Second Generation Utility
This 1979 Ford Bronco is a masterclass in restomod engineering, striking a perfect balance between nostalgic charm and high-performance capability. From its professionally built 400 V8 to the meticulous rotisserie finish, no detail was overlooked in its 2026-ready transformation. It is a vehicle designed to be driven, shown, and respected, carrying the torch of Ford’s truck heritage into a new era of performance. For the enthusiast who demands the very best in classic utility and modern comfort, this Bronco is a definitive choice that stands head and shoulders above the rest.
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Source: mecum.com
