How much horsepower does a 1986 Ford Bronco have?
The 1986 Ford Bronco's horsepower depends on which engine it has. The most common 5.0-liter V8 produced about 210 horsepower; the 4.9-liter inline-six was roughly 165–170 hp; and the 5.8-liter V8 ranged around 210–230 hp.
Engine options and their horsepower
Below are the typical engines offered in the 1986 Bronco and the approximate horsepower each produced, based on factory ratings from the era.
- 4.9 L inline-six (300 I6) – approximately 165–170 horsepower; commonly paired with sturdy low-end torque for off-road use.
- 5.0 L V8 (302 V8) – about 210 horsepower; the standard V8 option for strong on- and off-road performance.
- 5.8 L V8 (351W) – roughly 210–230 horsepower; a larger V8 option for more power and towing capability.
These figures reflect SAE net horsepower figures typical of the mid-1980s, as published in brochures and period reviews. Actual output can vary by transmission, drivetrain configuration, emissions equipment, and wear condition.
What the numbers meant for driving
horsepower alone doesn’t tell the whole story of the Bronco’s performance. The 4.9 L inline-six delivered solid low-end torque ideal for climbing and rock-crawling, while the 5.0 L and 5.8 L V8s offered stronger essential acceleration and highway capability. Heavier weight and four-wheel drive tuning also influenced how these engines felt in real-world use.
Summary
For a 1986 Ford Bronco, horsepower varied by engine: the 4.9 L I6 around 165–170 hp, the 5.0 L V8 about 210 hp, and the 5.8 L V8 roughly 210–230 hp. Your exact figure depends on the specific engine and vehicle configuration, as was common in that era.
