While an off-roader like the Geo Tracker may be considered by some to be a fantastic all-terrain vehicle due to its smaller stature, the stock drivetrain leaves much to be desired in the way of raw horsepower. With that in mind, check out this V8-powered 1996 Tracker that was recently posted for sale.
Listed for $17,995 by a dealership in Alabama, this Tracker appears quite unassuming upon first glance, albeit extremely well cared of given its age. However, popping the hood reveals that a Ford naturally aspirated 5.0L V8 gasoline engine was been installed in lieu of the stock 1.6L I4 powerplant, which was rated at a paltry 80 horsepower and 94 pound-feet of torque. Interestingly, the Blue Oval engine has been upgraded with an aluminum radiator with a fan, an MSD ignition system, and a B303 cam.
It’s worth noting that no horsepower figures for this Tracker are listed in the ad.
As one may expect, the upgrades don’t end with the engine swap. A Tremec five-speed manual transmission directs the output exclusively to the rear wheels, while a custom dual exhaust lets passerbys know that this is no regular Geo. Overall, this 1996 Tracker received a complete frame-off restoration, along with a Porsche Guards Red paint job, upgraded suspension components to handle the bump in power, and new brake lines.
Moving onto the cabin, we find a black interior, as well as custom bucket seats to hold passengers in place. The driver is greeted by a custom billet steering wheel, while the gauges and door seals are new.
It’s worth noting that this V8-swapped beast is sold with two tops, including a sport top and full top, both of which are produced by Bestop.
So, what do you think dear reader? Is this little Ford-powered 1996 Geo Tracker a good purchase, or does it sacrifice too much of the Tracker’s original ethos? Fire off your thoughts in the comments section below.
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Comments
Stupid. Never would I buy a Ford product. Should have a small block Chevy 350 in it!! Enough said
The guy did the right thing. You don’t want a distributor in the rear it won’t fit.
NO mention of upgraded brakes. Yikes
I like the Tracker and would not mind having it in my garage. It would be fun driving around the area, but not for racing. Short wheel base vehicles can get a hand full in a hurry.
Did anyone notice the parachute on the tire carrier? I like the subtle joke.
Would like it better if it was a 4×4.
Sweet. Looks like a well-done installation from the pics. The Ford Windsor is even more compact than a small-block Chevy and is likely why it was selected for the swap. Would be fun to surprise a few higher profile sporting cars with this at a stoplight!
Really a neat set-up. Would like to put that in my garage. BTW, Ford made a nice small V6 that is becoming more popular in Ford hot rods
I like this car quite a lot. Would wider tires (and/or different backspacing) make this handle better or worse?
I think it fits right in for all the reds in FLA.