Mecum’s Glendale auction in March will feature this unique 1966 Ford Bronco prototype converted into a no-nonsense sand racer.
The original build was carried out by Bill Stroppe and Charlie Erickson. The off-roader proceeded to have some fun drag-racing in desert environments in the late ‘60s, after which it continued to receive weight reduction mods. Although the bodywork is still metal, it is no longer encumbered by things like doors, windows or the roof. The interior is about as stripped as they come and only houses one seat.
Power still comes from the original 2.8-liter inline-six petrol engine, but it’s far from stock. A Paxton supercharger, Dual Stromberg twin-barrel carbs and a custom intake manifold ensure it gets a quick start off the line. So does a custom three-speed manual gearbox.
A peek inside the wheel arches reveals robust shock absorbers and 15-inch wheels wrapped in special Goodyear tires. The transverse grooves in the tread are cut specifically to maximize traction on sand. As for the brakes, they are only found on the rear axle – the front end enjoys a lighter ride, even if it’s at the expense of one of the most common safety features.
There are no pricing estimates. The Bronco is a prototype and not street-legal, at that, but the listing claims it is in great condition. The last time it was comprehensively restored in 2011, it had extra stabilizers and differentials added for a more confident ride. And if the video above is any indication, it seems to have been to another auction in January this year, apparently without result. Perhaps retro sand dragsters don’t make such a big market these days.
