Insane $145,000 Bronco: 500 HP Hennessey Velociraptor - Is It Worth It
The allure of a beefed-up, supercharged off-roader is undeniable, and Hennessey Performance seems to bank on that. With the release of their Bronco VelociRaptor 500, the tuning powerhouse has presented an enticing question for auto enthusiasts: Is this 500 horsepower, $145,000 beast worth the splurge?
Power and Performance Upgrades
Let’s start with what makes the VelociRaptor 500 tick. At the heart of this monster is a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 engine, which Hennessey has meticulously tuned and equipped with a high-capacity intercooler. The result is a jaw-dropping 500 horsepower and 550 lb-ft of torque. To put things into perspective, this gives the modified Bronco a significant edge over its rival, the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 392, which has 470 hp and 470 lb-ft of torque.
Supporting these engine enhancements are upgrades to the suspension and bodywork. A new proprietary engine management system ensures everything runs smoothly, while an enhanced air filter keeps the engine breathing properly. Additionally, the VelociRaptor sits on impressive 20-inch wheels wrapped with 37-inch off-road tires, ensuring it’s just as capable off the beaten path as it is on the road.
Distinctive Design
A part of what makes the VelociRaptor 500 so unique is the aesthetic and functional upgrades it brings to the table. The off-roader comes equipped with a front and rear leveling kit and new bumpers, along with a front brush bar finished in matte black. Not to mention the plethora of Hennessey badges giving it a distinctive, assertive finish.
Inside, it’s just as posh. Although detailed interior modifications haven’t been highlighted, the standard Bronco’s rugged yet comfortable cabin suggests there are likely subtle, tasteful additions from Hennessey’s craftsmen to complement the overall aggressive look.
The Price Tag Conundrum
This Oxford White VelociRaptor is presented at an asking price of $144,950. That’s a hefty hike from the base price of a standard Bronco Raptor which starts at $91,930. To put things into a clearer financial picture, existing Bronco Raptor owners can purchase the Hennessey upgrade kit for $28,950, bringing a brand-new similar setup to around $120,880.
For some, that $145,000 asking price might just seem more palatable when considering the upgrades and the exclusivity it brings. However, it’s worth noting that this particular listing comes with a caveat: the images shown in the eBay ad are for a Bronco similar to the one being sold, not the actual vehicle.
Drive It, Own It
Beyond the raw power and muscular aesthetics, owning a VelociRaptor 500 is a promise of a unique driving experience. According to the listing, this particular vehicle has clocked only 600 miles and comes with a generous 3-year / 36,000-mile warranty, ensuring peace of mind for a few years to come.
It’s one thing to modify a vehicle for additional performance; it’s entirely another to create a balanced package that’s ready to hit the trails or the streets right out of the gate. And that is precisely what Hennessey aims to deliver with the VelociRaptor 500.
If raw power, exclusivity, and a blend of high-performance engineering appeal to you, then perhaps this $145,000 machine isn’t as outlandish as it seems. After all, life is too short to drive boring cars.