The Ford Bronco IV 5.0 V8 AWD Automatic, produced between 1987 and 1991, represented a significant offering in the fourth generation of the Bronco line. This variant, built on the increasingly popular SUV platform, aimed to provide a blend of off-road capability and on-road comfort, appealing to a broader customer base than previous, more utilitarian Broncos. It occupied a premium position within the fourth-generation Bronco lineup, offering the most powerful engine option alongside the convenience of an automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. The Bronco IV generation (1987-1991) saw a shift towards more refined interiors and features, moving away from the purely rugged image of earlier models.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | Bronco |
| Generation | Bronco IV |
| Type (Engine) | 5.0 V8 (188 Hp) AWD Automatic |
| Start of production | 1987 |
| End of production | 1991 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 18.1 l/100 km (13 US mpg, 15.6 UK mpg, 5.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 13.8 l/100 km (17 US mpg, 20.5 UK mpg, 7.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 15.7 l/100 km (15 US mpg, 18 UK mpg, 6.4 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Power | 188 Hp @ 3800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 38 Hp/l |
| Torque | 366 Nm @ 2400 rpm (269.95 lb.-ft. @ 2400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | 302 |
| Engine displacement | 4942 cm3 (301.58 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 101.6 mm (4 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 76.2 mm (3 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.7 l (4.97 US qt | 4.14 UK qt) |
| Max. weight | 2000 kg (4409.25 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 121 l (31.96 US gal | 26.62 UK gal) |
| Length | 4585 mm (180.51 in.) |
| Width | 2009 mm (79.09 in.) |
| Height | 1892 mm (74.49 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2659 mm (104.69 in.) |
| Front track | 1654 mm (65.12 in.) |
| Rear track | 1636 mm (64.41 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.60 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.13 m (36.52 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 4 |
| Gearbox type | automatic transmission |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Tires size | 235/75 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Bronco IV 5.0 V8 was the Ford 302 cubic inch (4.9 liter) small-block V8 engine. This engine, internally designated as the 302, was a staple of Ford’s powertrain lineup for decades, known for its reliability and relatively simple design. The 1987-1991 Bronco version produced 188 horsepower at 3800 rpm and 366 Nm (269.95 lb-ft) of torque at 2400 rpm. It featured a 9:1 compression ratio and utilized a multi-port fuel injection system, a significant upgrade over the carbureted engines of earlier Broncos. The engine’s longitudinal front-engine layout contributed to its balanced handling characteristics. The automatic transmission was a four-speed unit, providing smooth shifts but sacrificing some of the responsiveness found in manual transmission equipped models. This transmission was chosen to appeal to buyers prioritizing ease of use over outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 5.0 V8 and automatic transmission combination delivered a comfortable, if not particularly sporty, driving experience. While the engine provided ample torque for off-road excursions and towing, the automatic transmission dulled acceleration compared to the available five-speed manual. The four-speed automatic’s gear ratios were optimized for cruising and low-speed crawling, rather than quick acceleration. In real-world conditions, the Bronco IV 5.0 V8 felt capable and confident, but not exceptionally quick. The all-wheel-drive system provided excellent traction in various conditions, making it a capable off-roader. However, the vehicle’s considerable weight (around 4409 lbs) and relatively soft suspension meant it wasn’t a cornering machine on paved roads.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Bronco IV 5.0 V8 Automatic typically came with a fairly comprehensive list of standard features for the time. These included power steering, power brakes, and a basic sound system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for upgraded materials like leather available. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, with easy-to-read gauges. Optional extras included air conditioning, a tilt steering wheel, upgraded sound systems, and various off-road packages that added features like a limited-slip differential and heavy-duty suspension components. The trim level generally sat at the higher end of the Bronco range, reflecting the higher price point associated with the V8 engine and automatic transmission.
Chassis & Braking
The Bronco IV utilized a body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable platform. The front suspension featured independent coil springs, while the rear suspension employed leaf springs. This setup provided a good balance of ride comfort and off-road capability. Braking duties were handled by disc brakes in the front and drum brakes in the rear. An anti-lock braking system (ABS) was available, enhancing safety and control, particularly on slippery surfaces. The relatively heavy weight of the vehicle necessitated a robust braking system, and the ABS helped to mitigate the risk of wheel lockup during hard braking.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Bronco IV 5.0 V8 Automatic received generally positive reviews, with critics praising its powerful engine, comfortable ride, and capable all-wheel-drive system. However, its fuel economy was a common criticism, averaging around 15 mpg combined. Compared to the smaller, more fuel-efficient inline-six cylinder Bronco models, the V8 was significantly thirstier. The V8 also commanded a higher price, making it less accessible to budget-conscious buyers. Against competitors like the Chevrolet Blazer and Jeep Cherokee, the Bronco IV 5.0 V8 offered a compelling combination of power, comfort, and off-road capability, though it often lagged behind in fuel efficiency.
Legacy
The Ford Bronco IV 5.0 V8 Automatic has become a sought-after classic among collectors and enthusiasts. The 302 V8 engine is known for its durability and relative ease of maintenance, making it a reliable powertrain for long-term ownership. While fuel economy is a concern by modern standards, the Bronco IV’s robust construction and capable all-wheel-drive system continue to appeal to those seeking a classic SUV with off-road prowess. Today, well-maintained examples command strong prices in the used car market, reflecting their enduring popularity and the growing demand for classic Ford Broncos.
