Ford Bronco Vs. Jeep Wrangler

Though Jeep didn’t officially produce the “Wrangler” until 1986 with the release of the YJ platform, it’d be a disservice to begin the story there. The YJ is a direct successor to the hyper-popular Jeep CJ, which ran from 1955–1986 and included the CJ-5, CJ-6, CJ-7, and CJ-8 Scrambler. These models were the direct successor to the first civilian Jeeps produced by Kaiser/Willys, like the CJ-2A, CJ-3A, and CJ-3B; we know, lots of numbers. 

The classic Jeep recipe was conceived with the fears of WWII on the horizon. The first mass-production military Jeep–the bare-bones, 4x4 Willys MB–was born from necessity after the military requested 135 auto companies bid for a lightweight and durable ¼-ton reconnaissance vehicle. After the Jeep MB garnered its legendary status behind enemy lines, the desire for civilian 4x4s increased; thus, the civilian Jeep (CJ) was born! 

Back to the official “Wranglers”, the YJ gave way to the coil-sprung TJ, which transitioned into the JK in 2007. With the introduction of the JK came the addition of two rear doors in the Wrangler Unlimited; this generation stretched over a decade until the release of the JL in 2018, which brought a sense of refinement to the platform. The JL persists to this day, which brings us up to speed! 

While the Ford Bronco doesn’t have the same illustrious and awarded past as the Wrangler, the model has a rich history in the 4x4 scene. 

The Ford Bronco was first announced in 1965 for a release in the 1966 model year. With a small form factor, solid axles, and a torquey inline-6, the Bronco was marketed as a direct competitor to the Jeep CJ and International Scout. Ford’s all-terrain vehicle was originally offered in three configurations–roadster, wagon, and half-cab. 

After 12 years of production, the Bronco received its first generational update in 1978 which saw the model transform from a small, dedicated 4-wheeler to a full-size SUV that stole inspiration (and parts) from the Ford F-series. Though wildly popular for years, the Bronco lost momentum and was discontinued in 1996 after 5 generations and 30 years. 

But after a 25-year hiatus, the Bronco lives on in its sixth generation: a platform that harkens back to the initial days of the model.

The 2023 Jeep Wrangler JL Sport is the entry-level wrangler for the 2023 model year. This package includes the venerable 3.6L Pentastar V6, 6-speed manual transmission producing a respectable 285 horsepower and 265 lb/ft of torque. 

Amenities are extremely limited in base trimmings, with the Sport featuring:

• Manual locks

• Manual windows

• Manual cloth seats

• Carpet

In base trimmings, the Sport has no CD player, keyless entry, air conditioning, or much of anything else; however, for a dedicated wheeler, the entry-level JL isn’t a bad option.

For a low-end trim, the 2023 Ford Bronco Base is surprisingly well-equipped (especially compared to the Wrangler). The base features the 2.3L EcoBoost I4 producing 300 horsepower and 325 lb/ft of torque (premium fuel). The turbocharged 4-cylinder is mated to your choice of a 10-speed automatic or 7-speed manual gearbox. 

While not necessarily luxurious, the Bronco Base is far better equipped than the Wrangler Sport. Standard amenities include:

• Manual air conditioning

• Keyless entry with remote start

• Wireless CarPlay and Android Auto-compatible infotainment system

• Carpeted flooring and mats

• 7-speaker audio system

• Terrain management system
  

And more! 

2023 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 392

The 2023 Wrangler Rubicon 392 is the pinnacle of JL performance, powered by the legendary 6.4L HEMI V8 producing 470 horsepower and 470 lb/ft of torque. Besides the upgraded powertrain, the Rubicon 392 is suspended by an off-road-tuned suspension, including Mopar/FOX shocks, sway bar disconnects, and Dana 44 differentials with Tru-Lok electronic lockers. The Rubicon 392 rolls on rugged beadlock-capable 17-inch wheels and 33-inch BF-Goodrich tires.  

Amenities-wise, the Wrangler 392 packs nearly every option in Jeep’s catalog. Heavily-bolstered, leather-wrapped, full-power seats provide exceptional comfort and security on the trail, while a U-connect premium infotainment system provides entertainment. Other features include:

• Paddle shifters

• 7-inch digital gauge cluster

• Dual-mode exhaust system

• Premium air-induction hood

And more!

For just over $1,000 more (starting MSRP), Ford’s Bronco Raptor is a direct competitor to the Wrangler Rubicon 392. While the Bronco Raptor doesn’t sport a solid front axle, it's equipped with the Hoss 4.0 suspension system, featuring FOX LiveValve 3.1 internal bypass dampers at all four corners producing 13 inches of front and 14 inches of rear travel. A front stabilizer bar disconnect and electronic-locking differentials make for impressive off-road performance. 

Under the hood, the Bronco Raptor packs Ford’s twin-turbocharged 3.0L EcoBoost V6 pumping out 418 horsepower and 440 lb/ft of torque! While not as powerful as the Wrangler’s 392 HEMI, the Raptor has plenty of power to dominate the trail, dunes, or highway.

Amenities-wise, the Bronco Raptor sports: 

• Marine-grade vinyl seats

• 12-inch digital gauge cluster

• 12-inch capacitive infotainment display

• Wireless CarPlay and Android Auto 

• Keyless entry with push-button start

• Remote start

• Terrain management system with 7-modes

And more!