How much horsepower does a 1988 Ford Bronco have?
The horsepower in a 1988 Ford Bronco varies by engine. The base 4.9L inline-six generally produced about 165 horsepower, while the available V8 options—the 5.0L and the 5.8L—typically ranged from roughly 210 to 230 horsepower depending on configuration and rating method.
Engine options and power outputs for the year
The 1988 Bronco offered three main powertrains. Exact figures can vary by emission controls, carburetion versus fuel injection, and the rating standard used by Ford at the time.
Inline-six option: 4.9L (300 cu in)
The 4.9L inline-six served as the base engine and delivered horsepower in the mid-160s, with variations based on tuning and equipment.
- 4.9L I6 (300 cu in) — about 165 hp
In practice, the six-cylinder option prioritized durability and torque for off-road work, with modest peak power compared to the V8s.
V8 options: 5.0L and 5.8L
The Bronco's two V8 options produced higher peak power, typically in the low-to-mid 200s hp range, with the 5.0L edging toward the higher end and the 5.8L offering strong torque alongside similar horsepower figures.
- 5.0L V8 (302 cu in) — approximately 210–225 hp
- 5.8L V8 (351W) — approximately 210–230 hp
Both V8 options provided a notable performance boost over the inline-six, with the 5.8L generally delivering more torque for heavy-duty use and off-road capability.
Notes on horsepower figures
Horsepower ratings from the era varied by measurement standard (gross vs. net) and by whether engines were carbureted or fuel-injected. The ranges above reflect typical factory figures for 1988 Broncos and are intended to give a practical sense of what buyers and enthusiasts saw in the field.
Summary
In summary, a 1988 Ford Bronco could produce about 165 hp with the base 4.9L inline-six, or roughly 210–225 hp with the 5.0L V8, or about 210–230 hp with the 5.8L V8. Real-world performance depends on the exact engine, transmission, gearing, and vehicle condition.
How much horsepower does a 1988 Ford Bronco 2 have?
From the factory, the Bronco II came with 140 horsepower and 170 pound-feet of torque, the latter available from just 2600 rpm.
How much is a 1988 Ford Bronco worth today?
A 1988 Ford Bronco's value varies significantly, but expect a price around $13,800 for a Custom model in good condition, with an average range of $5,500 to $18,700 at auction. Factors like condition, mileage, and trim (such as the Eddie Bauer edition) heavily influence the final price.
Factors affecting value
- Condition: A Bronco in excellent shape with minimal rust and a well-maintained drivetrain will be worth more than one needing significant repairs.
- Mileage: Vehicles with lower mileage, especially under 100,000 miles, command higher prices.
- Trim Level: Higher trim levels like the Eddie Bauer or XLT are generally more valuable than the Custom model.
- Modifications: While desirable modifications can increase value, extensive or poor-quality modifications may decrease it.
- History: A clean title and a detailed maintenance history will add to the vehicle's worth.
- Engine: The 351 cid V-8 engine option is often a desirable feature.
Price range examples
- Good condition (Custom): ~$13,800
- Good condition (Bronco II XLT): ~$8,350
- Excellent condition (Eddie Bauer): ~$14,300
- Recent Auction Sales:
- Low: ~$5,500 (for examples with major needs)
- High: ~$18,700 (for exceptional examples)
- Most recent: $17,589 (as of January 2025)
What motor came in a 1988 Ford Bronco?
The 300 six and 351W 5.8L V8 engines were paired with electronic fuel injection in the 1987-88 model years. A 5-speed manual transmission was introduced in 1988 and an all-new Borg Warner 1345 transfer case with optional Touch Drive electric shift replaced the New Process 208 case.
How much horsepower does a 1989 Ford Bronco have?
Stuffed under the hood is a 351ci engine pushing 420 rear-wheel horsepower and 440 lb-ft of torque.
