1978 Ford Bronco Specs & Restoration Guide: A New Generation of Power

The 1978 Ford Bronco marked a major turning point for the iconic SUV. After a decade of the classic first-generation design, Ford introduced a completely new, larger, and more powerful Bronco. This new second-generation Bronco was a response to the changing demands of the market, and it was a huge success. At HighLine Classics, we have a deep appreciation for the 1978 Bronco, and we’re here to share our knowledge with you. 

A Bigger, Bolder Bronco

The most obvious change for 1978 was the size of the Bronco. The new second generation model was based on the F-100 pickup truck platform, and it was significantly larger than the first-generation Bronco. This new size gave the Bronco a more commanding presence on the road, and it also provided a more spacious and comfortable interior. 

1978 Ford Bronco Specifications

Here’s a look at the key specifications for the 1978 Ford Bronco:

Engine Options

• 351M V8: The base engine for the 1978 Bronco was a 351M V8. It produced 156 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. 

• 400 V8: The optional engine for the 1978 Bronco was a 400 V8. It produced 158 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque.

Transmission

• Four-Speed Manual: The standard transmission for the 1978 Bronco was a four speed manual. 

• C6 Automatic: The optional transmission for the 1978 Bronco was a C6 automatic. 

Axles and Suspension

The 1978 Bronco featured a Dana 44 front axle and a Ford 9-inch rear axle. The front suspension used coil springs and radius arms, while the rear suspension used leaf springs. 

Body Styles

The 1978 Bronco was available in a single body style: a two-door wagon with a removable hardtop.

Restoring a 1978 Ford Bronco

Restoring a 1978 Bronco is a different experience than restoring a first-generation model. Here are a few things to keep in mind when restoring a 1978 model:

Size Matters

The larger size of the 1978 Bronco means that it has more sheet metal, which can be a good thing or a bad thing, depending on the condition of the vehicle. It’s important to thoroughly inspect the body for any rust or damage before you begin a restoration. 

Engine

The 351M and 400 V8 engines are both strong and reliable, but they’re not as popular as the small-block V8s used in the first-generation Broncos. This means that parts can be a bit more difficult to find, but it’s by no means impossible. At HighLine Classics, we have the expertise to build any engine you desire, from a stock restoration to a high-performance upgrade.

Interior

The interior of the 1978 Bronco is much more spacious and comfortable than the first generation models. It’s a great platform for a custom interior, and we can help you create a design that is both stylish and functional. Check out our design page for inspiration. 

Your Second-Generation Bronco Experts

At HighLine Classics, we’re your headquarters for all things classic Bronco. We offer a wide range of services, from basic maintenance to full frame-off restorations. We also have a selection of pre-owned Broncos for sale, so you can find the perfect vehicle to start your own Bronco adventure. 

Contact us today to learn more about our services and to start planning your dream Bronco.