Custom 4x4s
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You have to give it to America when it comes to wild four-wheel drive builds.
In Australia, our automotive regulations are ruled with an iron fist, making it extremely difficult and expensive to create one-off machines. It’s possible, but certainly not to the scale of what you can build – and drive daily – in the US of A.
That’s also why restomodding older 4WDs has become so popular. It’s the best of both worlds, with retro styling combined with modern engines and tech. Why? Because you can, that’s why.
Take one look at this 1969 Ford Bronco and tell us you don’t want one. Not only does this beast, owned by Isaac P (he’s asked his last name not to be published), look absolutely stunning – it’s got the off-road and performance creds to match.
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That’s the joy of building a one-off creation like this Bronco: you can make it what you want, rather than what a manufacturer thinks you want.
The process certainly hasn’t been smooth sailing. That almost goes without saying, considering no vehicle build is easy. But the results – and the sheer amount of effort involved – really speak for themselves. This is a uniquely cool off-roader that looks just as at home on the Vegas Strip as it does on the Rubicon.
When asked about the build, Cameron Chin, owner of Nefarious Kustoms, said: “All of these custom touches result in a very classic package, preserved with a fresh modern take. The 460hp Coyote engine and 6-speed box provide the power and reliability one would want in a classic restomod. The coil-over suspension is supple with great road manners, and the interior is as comfortable as any modern luxury vehicle.”
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The story behind this 1969 Ford Bronco
The build began in 2015, when the owner brought his much-loved Bronco to a workshop (which will remain nameless) for cosmetic enhancements and minor tweaks.
As so often happens, the modification list snowballed into a major build. Multiple body panels were replaced, the frame was stripped to the rails, and a poorly executed coil-over conversion with Ford Ranger shocks was fitted.
A new 450hp Coyote engine and six-speed automatic were transplanted – but installed so badly that the motor was leaning against one shock tower. It wasn’t going to plan, basically.
At this point, both the owner and the original shop tapped out. The somewhat sad Bronco was sent to the team at Nefarious Kustoms to correct the suspension and driveline. By then, the build had already taken five years. The decision was made to cut ties with the first workshop completely and let Nefarious take the reins – creating the finished product you see today.
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Ford Coyote power and driveline upgrades
Back in 1969, this Bronco would have rolled out with a 302-cubic-inch V8. Respectable for its day, but far from today’s standards in power, reliability, and efficiency.
Now under the bonnet sits a 5.0L Ford Motorsports Coyote crate motor producing 460hp. It’s paired with a six-speed automatic gearbox for a relaxed driving experience on and off road, and linked to a Dana 20 transfer case using a BC Broncos engine swap kit.
While the engine remains mostly stock, a few choice upgrades were added during the build: BC Broncos headers and stainless exhaust, a Powermaster alternator relocation kit, and a Ron Davis alloy radiator with electric fan. The result is a reliable, powerful package ready for long-haul adventure.
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Suspension, axles and off-road setup
Up front, a Dana 44 axle handles the power and abuse from the Coyote and 35-inch BF Goodrich all-terrains on Method Race Wheels. Originally, a Dana 30 sat in its place – but once discovered to be bent, it was scrapped mid-way through a disc-brake conversion. The beefier Dana 44 was the smarter choice.
The Nefarious Kustoms crew, led by Micah Gamponia, fabricated an adjustable trailing-arm suspension setup, added heavy-duty steering arms, and finished with Warn hubs. King coil-overs up front deliver a cushy ride on road, excellent desert composure, and proper flex on rocks.
At the rear, a Ford 9-inch axle takes care of power delivery. A 3.5-inch lift with leaf springs is matched to King 2.0 Smooth Body shocks, while a 2-inch body lift provides clearance for the 35s when articulating or dune-hopping. Disc brakes all round ensure modern stopping power.
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Exterior paint and bodywork
One of the most striking features of this Bronco is its paintwork – Matte Metallic Charcoal laid down by Cheyenne Ruether of Nefarious Kustoms.
Gloss powder-coating on the exterior trim and a bright centre grille add contrast, tying in beautifully with the distressed leather and black stainless trim inside. There’s a fair bit going on inside the Bronco, too. Starting with the door cards, which were supplied by the mad scientists at Icon 4×4. They also supplied their rear panels and map lights.
Some matching corrugated metal was sourced and laser cut for the glovebox fascia as well as gauge bezel inserts that house the Dakota Digital instruments. A custom glovebox was 3D printed, as well as all external trim rings laser cut. What I’m seeing, is not just an impressive level of attention to detail, this thing is just next level.
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Custom Bronco interior and creature comforts
Inside, the Bronco is as impressive as its mechanicals.
Icon 4×4 supplied the door cards, rear panels and map lights, while custom corrugated metal panels were laser cut for the glovebox fascia and gauge bezels housing Dakota Digital instruments. A 3D-printed glovebox and laser-cut trim rings show just how far the attention to detail goes.
Creature comforts weren’t overlooked. A compact Air Hurricane air-conditioning system handles heating and cooling. Nu-Relics power windows, power-folding steps, and a universal power-lock system bring modern convenience. For safety, 6651 Customs in North Las Vegas fabricated and powder-coated a roll cage.
The interior trim is nothing short of luxurious. Four cowhides were used to wrap the seats, dash, steering wheel, doors, and quarter panels. Ian’s Auto Interiors handled the work, also hand-stitching German Square Weave carpet and fitting an Alcantara headliner.
The result? A show-quality interior that perfectly complements this world-class restomod Bronco.
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