1987 Ford Bronco II 2.3L Turbo
I stumbled across an article on ‘Barn Finds’ talking about this 1987 Ford Bronco II Turbo for sale for $2,500. According to the seller:
“Recently just bought this 87 Bronco, but unfortunately won’t be able to keep due to having a baby and not being the safest car since it’s doesn’t have airbags. Truck is in good condition and drives good. It’s a stick shift, truck has turbo included. It’s diffidently a fun truck to drive. Come out and take a look!!”
(Ford Thunderbird 2.3L Turbo Motor)
According to ‘Barn Finds’, “The Bronco II was available with a 2.3L Mitsubishi turbo diesel in 1986 but it only lasted for two years due to poor performance.”
A 2.2L Mazda/Perkins diesel was available in the Ford Ranger from 1983-1984, and a 2.3L Mitsubishi turbo diesel was available in the Ford Ranger from 1985-1987, but there were never any 4-cylinders or diesels offered in the Bronco II. While some people suggest that it has happened, or that it was available in Canada, I’ve never seen it or seen it listed as an option in a USA or Canada brochure.
In this case, the Bronco II in this listing has a 2.3L turbo motor out of a turbo Thunderbird. Many people have swapped these into a Ford Ranger. You don’t see that many swapped into a Bronco II. I like the addition of the turbo T-Bird hood scoops in the stock hood. This 80’s turbo 4-cylinder looks like it belongs in that engine compartment. For $2,500, I bet this is a fun vehicle to drive.
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About The Author
Jim Oaks is the founder of TheRangerStation.com, the longest-running Ford Ranger resource online since 1999. With over 25 years of hands-on experience building and modifying Ford Rangers — including magazine-featured builds like Project Transformer — Jim has become one of the most trusted authorities in the Ford Ranger off-road and enthusiast space.
Since launching TheRangerStation.com, Jim has documented thousands of real-world Ranger builds, technical repairs, drivetrain swaps, suspension modifications, and off-road adventures contributed by owners worldwide. TheRangerStation.com has been referenced in print, video and online by enthusiasts, mechanics, and off-road builders looking for practical, and experience-based information.
