In the realm of ultimate off-road vehicles, two contenders stand out from the rest - the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 392 and the Ford Bronco Raptor. Both boasting impressive capabilities and commanding steep price tags nearing $100,000, these vehicles cater to enthusiasts seeking the pinnacle of off-road performance. In this article, we'll dive into a direct comparison between these two beasts, examining their key differences and ultimately determining which one emerges as the superior choice.
Price and Availability:
The 2024 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 392, as tested, comes in at $95,000 after adding all the options. Similarly, the Ford Bronco Raptor, despite having a slightly lower base price, often sells for around $95,000 due to high demand. It's important to note that both vehicles are currently in short supply, making them challenging to acquire without a significant wait or markup.
Powertrain:
One of the most significant differences between the two lies under the hood. The Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 392 is powered by a massive 6.4-liter V8 engine, producing an impressive 470 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque. On the other hand, the Ford Bronco Raptor utilizes a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6, generating around 418 horsepower and 440 lb-ft of torque. While the Bronco Raptor's engine is potent, the Jeep's V8 offers a more thrilling and visceral driving experience.
Interior and Comfort
For the 2024 model year, the Jeep Wrangler receives some notable interior upgrades, including power seats with lumbar support and a larger infotainment screen running the user-friendly Uconnect 5 system. The Ford Bronco Raptor also offers a well-appointed interior with a digital instrument cluster and the SYNC 4 infotainment system. While both interiors are comfortable, the Bronco Raptor may have a slight edge in terms of overall refinement.
Exterior Design:
The Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 392 maintains the classic and iconic Wrangler design, with the addition of a functional hood scoop and wider fenders to accommodate the massive 37-inch tires. The Ford Bronco Raptor, on the other hand, features a more aggressive and modern design, with distinctive styling elements like the shark-nose front end and prominent fender flares. Ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to personal preference and whether you prefer the timeless Jeep aesthetic or the Bronco's contemporary look. Related Articles: Compared: 2023 Jeep Wrangler Vs. 2023 Toyota 4Runner
The Ford Bronco Raptor: A Desert Runner's Dream
The 2022 Ford Bronco Raptor is a highly sought-after vehicle, with only a select few getting the opportunity to swap their Bronco order for the Raptor model. When Matt got his Bronco Raptor, the MSRP was around $79,000, but prices have since increased to approximately $90,000. The vehicle boasts a V6 engine equipped with a Whipple intercooler and tune, which adds roughly 50 horsepower to the stock 418 hp, bringing it close to 470 hp at the crank.
What sets the Bronco Raptor apart is its advanced suspension system, featuring live valve shocks that automatically adjust compression and rebound based on the terrain. This allows the vehicle to smooth out rough terrain and maintain high speeds, making it an ideal choice for those who enjoy high-speed desert running. The Bronco Raptor's suspension is so impressive that even an experienced off-road racer like Andrew Shive, who has been in one of the most winning Ultra4 cars on the planet, compared the ride to that of an Ultra4 car.
The Jeep Wrangler 392: A Rock Crawler's Best Friend
On the other hand, the Jeep Wrangler 392 is powered by a V8 engine that produces 470 hp at the crank. The specific Jeep in this comparison has undergone extensive upgrades, including Spicer Ultimate 60 axles, 39-inch BFG tires on Hutchinson beadlock wheels, new drive lines, a front bumper, a winch, and rock sliders. These modifications come at a cost of approximately $60,000, bringing the total cost of the vehicle to around $150,000.
The Jeep Wrangler 392's solid axle design and V8 engine make it better suited for low-speed rock crawling and technical terrain. The low-end torque of the V8 and the robustness of the solid axles give the Jeep an advantage in this type of off-roading. The Wrangler 392 has proven its capability on some of the most challenging trails, including the Rubicon, Fordyce, and trails in Moab, all while remaining relatively unscathed.
Strengths and Weaknesses
When it comes to off-road capabilities, both vehicles have their strengths. The Bronco Raptor excels in high-speed desert running, thanks to its advanced suspension system that can smoothly navigate rough terrain at high speeds. The Jeep Wrangler 392, with its solid axle design and V8 engine, is better suited for low-speed rock crawling and technical terrain, where the low-end torque and robustness of the solid axles provide an advantage.
However, both vehicles also have their weaknesses. The Bronco Raptor's independent front suspension can be more prone to steering and suspension component damage when subjected to extreme rock crawling conditions. The Jeep Wrangler 392's solid axle design, while great for rock crawling, may not provide the same level of high-speed stability and comfort as the Bronco Raptor in desert running situations.
Other factors to consider include the availability of aftermarket parts and the ease of customization. The Jeep Wrangler has a massive aftermarket support, with countless options for modifications and upgrades readily available. The Bronco Raptor, being a newer platform, has a growing aftermarket but may not have the same level of support as the Wrangler at this time.
Conclusion:
In the end, the choice between the Jeep Wrangler 392 and the Ford Bronco Raptor comes down to the individual's off-road preferences, budget, and intended use. The Bronco Raptor is an excellent choice for those who prioritize high-speed desert running and want a vehicle that performs exceptionally well out of the box. Its advanced suspension system and powerful V6 engine make it a formidable desert machine.
The Jeep Wrangler 392, while more expensive with modifications, is the better choice for those who enjoy technical rock crawling and value the ability to heavily customize their vehicle. The solid axle design, V8 engine, and extensive aftermarket support make it a rock crawler's dream machine.
Both vehicles offer a unique off-road experience and are capable of tackling a wide variety of terrains. Whether you choose the Jeep Wrangler 392 or the Ford Bronco Raptor, you'll be getting a highly capable off-road vehicle that can provide endless hours of fun and adventure.
