How much horsepower does a 1980 Ford Bronco have?
The horsepower of a 1980 Ford Bronco was not a single number but a range, since the model year offered several V8 engines. In stock form, Broncos from that year generally produced about 150 to 210 horsepower, depending on the engine and emissions configuration.
Engine options in the 1980 Bronco
The 1980 Bronco was offered with a few different V8 engine choices. Power output varied with carburetion, exhaust tuning, and emissions controls, but all engines shared the Bronco’s emphasis on torque and reliability for off-road use.
302 cubic inch V8 (5.0 L)
The base V8 for many Broncos of this era, the 302, provided solid everyday performance. In 1980, the SAE net horsepower for this engine typically fell in the mid-range for V8s of the period, commonly cited around 150 to 170 horsepower depending on configuration.
351 Windsor V8 (5.8 L)
The 351W offered more power and torque than the smaller 302, with horsepower generally in the upper end of the mid-range for Broncos of that era—commonly around 180 to 210 horsepower depending on setup and emissions equipment.
400 cubic inch V8 (6.6 L)
The large-displacement 400 V8 delivered strong torque for challenging terrain, with horsepower typically described in the broad range of roughly 170 to 210 horsepower, again influenced by carburetion, exhaust, and emissions controls.
Ultimately, a 1980 Bronco’s official horsepower depended on the exact engine and the factory spec for that vehicle. For any given Bronco, the precise number would be listed on the original window sticker or the VIN-era documentation.
Why the horsepower varies
During the late 1970s and early 1980s, American automakers used SAE net horsepower ratings, which reflect drivetrain losses and modern emissions controls. That shift often results in lower numbers than older “gross” ratings, making direct comparisons across years tricky. Customers buying a 1980 Bronco would have felt the difference more in torque and driveability than in peak horsepower alone.
Summary
In short, the 1980 Ford Bronco did not have a single horsepower figure. Depending on the engine choice—302, 351W, or 400—a Bronco could be expected to deliver approximately 150 to 210 horsepower. For anyone evaluating a specific 1980 Bronco today, locating the original window sticker or the VIN-oriented build sheet will provide the exact figure.
