Classic 1970s Ford Bronco hides supercharged secret under the bonnet

In 1994, 95 million viewers are reported to have tuned in to watch a white Ford Bronco being pursued by up to 20 police cars at a stately 35mph along a Los Angeles freeway – with American football star OJ Simpson in the back seat holding a gun to his own head after failing to ‘help police with their enquiries’ in relation to the murder of his ex-wife and a male friend.

The publicity proved to be a fillip to previously ailing Bronco sales, but the model still disappeared from the Ford line-up two years later before being revived as a modern-day version in 2020.

But while the new generation Broncos are undeniably good, we prefer the idea of this superbly restomodded 1970 model that is the result of a meticulous, three-year ‘rotisserie’ build by Southside Custom of Albert Lea, Minnesota.

Although not a bolt has been left untouched, this ultimate classic Bronco succeeds in retaining the boxy looks and character of the original while being made vastly more suitable for the 21st century.

Key to that is the installation of a brand new Coyote 5-litre engine with Whipple supercharger which drives all four wheels through an automatic transmission and limited slip differentials front and rear.

Wilwood disc brakes and a Wild Horses suspension lift with Fox shock absorbers take care of the stopping and handling, while digital instruments and an upgraded steering set-up enhance driving ease.

And, sensibly, the interior has been immaculately re-upholstered in practical black leather rather than being given some of the more precious treatments that take the usability out of many of today’s restomod SUVs. Fancy a day in the desert?

1970 Ford Bronco

On offer with Mecum Auctions, Dallas, November 1. Estimate on request