Ford and Chevrolet don’t just compete against each with their production vehicles — there’s even a rivalry of sorts when it comes to their engines retrofitted into custom builds. An “LS swap” is a popular way to add Chevy power, while Blue Oval fans perform a “Coyote swap,” several of which have been carried out on first-gen Broncos. Our Pick of the Day applies that formula to the second-generation model. You can find this Coyote-powered 1979 Ford Bronco restomod listed on ClassicCars.com by a dealership in Mesa, Arizona. In addition to a road test, and an exterior and interior walk-around, the below video gives an earful of the custom dual exhaust system’s sound.
It’s fitting that this Bronco has a Coyote 5.0-liter V-8. After all, bigger was the dominant theme to the 1978-79 models that formed the Bronco’s shortest generation. Compared to its predecessor, the ’78 had an additional foot of wheelbase and measured more than 10 inches wider, 28 inches longer, and four inches taller. Yes, this Bronco’s Coyote 5.0-liter V-8 (from a 2019 F-150) is smaller than its factory-installed 400, but it’s bigger in terms of output: 395 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque.
Power reaches the 17-inch Method wheels and Cooper Discoverer AT3 tires through a 10R80 10-speed automatic and BorgWarner 4406 dual-range transfer case; an Eaton Detroit Truetrac limited-slip rear differential helps turn the Coyote’s power into forward motion instead of squandered potential. Adjustable Rancho RS9000 shocks take the bumps along the way. Wilwood power disc brakes with six-piston front/four-piston rear calipers make sure this Bronco doesn’t go off-trail and get all bucked up.
What also makes this rig a little different is the color scheme and layout. Ford offered this Bronco with four “Tu-Tone” configurations, none of which were arranged like this one’s white and green, but that’s a little misleading. The more I look at the green on the lower body, the more it seems to be a slightly different shade of green, making this the automotive equivalent of an American Paint Horse with a tri-color coat.
Like the outside, the cabin is a mix of old-school and modern. Woodgrain trim accents the dashboard and door panels, which flank dark green vinyl seats with green/gray/light blue inserts. The most noticeable updates are laid out in front of the driver: an aftermarket four-spoke steering wheel, Dakota Digital gauges, controls for the Vintage Air A/C, and Bluetooth-compatible JVC AM/FM head unit with CD player.
There are plenty of Broncos out there (even those with Coyote swaps), but if you want one that’s a little different, you can get this 1979 Ford Bronco restomod for $118,995.
Click here to view this Pick of the Day on ClassicCars.com
