images: RTR Vehicles
Since the launch of the sixth-generation Bronco, fans have consistently asked one question: “Where’s the V8?” While Ford has remained firm on the capability of its twin-turbo V6 lineup — which delivers torque numbers rivaling or beating V8-powered half-ton trucks — the demand hasn’t quieted. The only V8-powered Bronco so far has been the limited-edition, race-only Bronco DR, built for Baja and backed by Ford Performance. Until now.
Just Revealed: The 7.3L “Godzilla” V8 Swap
RTR Vehicles has delivered an answer of its own.
Teased on Instagram and unveiled at the currently happening 2025 Easter Jeep Safari in Moab, the RTR Fun-Runner LT is the first sixth-gen Bronco in the world to be swapped with a Ford Performance 7.3L “Godzilla” V8. With 430 horsepower and 475 lb-ft of torque, this build marks a milestone not just for RTR Vehicles Off-Road, but for the Bronco platform.
A V8 in a Bronco – Finally
Ford made a clear case in 2021 that the Bronco powertrain didn’t need a V8. The 2.7L EcoBoost V6 was engineered with 33 unique off-road upgrades, including larger oil pans for steep descents, new turbochargers, and protection for deep water wading. It delivers 415 lb-ft of torque — more than the V8s in some full-size pickups. But for many, sound and size still matter.
RTR’s Fun-Runner LT gives those people what they want. Powered by the same Godzilla V8 used in Ford’s Super Duty trucks and paired with a 10R80 10-speed automatic transmission, the Fun-Runner LT brings big-displacement muscle to the sixth-gen Bronco for the first time.
“We’re building this for those that dream like Loren and I do,” said Vaughn Gittin Jr., RTR co-founder. “We’ve spent the last few years pushing the Bronco to its limits on and off the racing circuit and now we’re excited to offer something that lets others push those same limits.”
Race-Proven Hardware, Trail-Tested Design
The Fun-Runner LT is not just a drivetrain swap. RTR built this Bronco from the ground up with lessons learned from Ultra4 racing. Highlights include:
- Custom long-travel suspension with up to 18 inches of wheel travel
- FOX Performance Elite 2.5 coilovers (front) and 3.0 bypass shocks (rear)
- 74Weld billet portal axles
- 42-inch Nitto Trail Grapplers
- Hydraulic steering and widebody fenders
- Functional rock sliders, bumpers, and lighting solutions
Inside, the RTR-spec RECARO Cross Sportster ORV seats offer comfort and containment for four passengers. All elements were developed in-house or with direct collaboration from RTR’s off-road team, making the Fun-Runner LT as usable on the street as it is capable on the trail.
“This is everything we’ve been dreaming about doing to a Bronco since day one,” said Loren Healy. “It’s aggressive, it’s functional, and it’s ready to tackle anything from Moab to Johnson Valley while still turning heads on the street.”
From DR to LT: Bronco’s Expanding V8 Footprint
image: Ford
The only V8-powered sixth-gen Bronco available from the factory remains the Bronco DR — a purpose-built desert racer developed by Ford Performance and Multimatic. Based on a 2022 4-door Bronco frame, the DR uses a Coyote 5.0L V8, Multimatic DSSV dampers, and race-focused components throughout. With a limited run of 50 units, the DR was built not to fill showroom floors, but to compete directly in the Baja 1000.
“Bronco DR exists to give hardcore off-road enthusiasts a Built Wild, turnkey 4x4 to compete in desert racing events,” said Mark Rushbrook, Ford Performance Motorsports global director. “It started with the Bronco four-door – the platform and chassis are production true, and then we modified and optimized every aspect.”
While the DR was created for racing, the Fun-Runner LT represents a new kind of Bronco V8 experience — one built to showcase what’s possible for the most demanding enthusiasts. For those who want to explore the limits of the platform, the door is now open.
Want One?
Though this Bronco is a one-off, RTR Vehicles offers owners the opportunity to build a Fun-Runner LT. To get started, reach out to RTR directly!
Join the Moab Fun!
You can see this beast in person, hang out with Ford, Bronco ambassadors, and Bronco Nation for a member trail drive + meetup, plus enter to win a WARN winch and RIGID pod lights, check out other new Broncos like the Stroppe and drive the Bronco Off-Roadeo Outpost experience during the Bronco Stampede at Moab. It's all happening this week, April 16 -18, next to Performance Ford!
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