Over the years, there have been many iconic Ford Bronco models in the world, but few are as important to the history of the brand as “Big Oly,” the legendary 1969 Bronco racer that racked up Baja 100 wins numerous times throughout 1971 and 1972 with driver Parnelli Jones behind the wheel.
Big Oly has been on quite a tour in recent years, making appearances at Ford’s headquarters in Dearborn, Michigan and the Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance. Now, Big Oly has found its way to the auction block at this past weekend’s Mecum Indianapolis Auction. As it turns out, this event was well-worth the trip.
Big Oly has officially found a new home, this time coming with a lofty price tag of $1.87 million, which just so happens to be an all-time record. Big Oly’s sale price was almost certainly boosted thanks to the incredible buzz surrounding the 2021 Bronco brand’s rebirth, but its own unique history definitely helped as well.
In addition to its aforementioned Baja victories, Big Oly also secured wins at the 1973 Baja 500 and 1973 Mint 400. Aside from the incredible talent of Parnelli Jones, Big Oly was also partially developed by Bronco legend Bill Stroppe, who forever changed the landscape of off-road vehicles.
Big Oly is an ultra-lightweight, 2,620 pound Bronco racer that is powered by a Ford 351 Windsor V8, which churns out 390 horsepower. This power is sent to all four-wheels via a Ford C6 B&M hydro transmission.
However, Big Oly’s most heralded feature is undoubtedly its wild bodywork, which includes a massive wing in place of a roof designed to help improve traction. From its chrome-moly space frame to its fiberglass and aluminum bodywork and massive suspension travel, the Big Oly Bronco was ahead of its time.
Interested in learning more about the return of the legendary Ford Bronco? Click here to read on, and be sure to contact George Wall Ford in Red Bank, NJ online, by phone, or in person today!
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