Two special Raptors

Ford South Africa announced on 31 August this year that it will be offering a Ford Ranger Raptor Special Edition. This version will be available in limited numbers to ensure exclusivity, though Ford didn’t specify the number.

The Raptor SE gets striking matte black decals with red pin stripes on the bonnet, roof, tailgate, and doors. The two tow loops in the front bumper are now red, while the bumpers, door handles, and wheel arches are matte black. The Raptor SE also gets a sports bar behind the cab courtesy of the Wildtrak, as well as a lockable roller cover that is offered as an optional extra on the Ranger Thunder.

Mechanically speaking, there are no differences between the SE and regular Raptor, and this Raptor retains its unique Fox suspension system, bi-turbo engine, and General Grabber AT3 all-terrain tyres.

Another special version, though not from Ford’s plant, is the B4 bullet-resistant Ranger Raptor by security firm Special Vehicle Innovation Engineering (SVI). SVI says its B4 anti-hijack solution can defy a .44 Magnum round. B4 protection consists of reinforced glass for the windows and Kevlar sheets in the body of the bakkie. Ford South Africa decided not to approve SVI’s B6 protection, as this higher level of protection weighs too much.

SVI’s B4 conversion costs R454 271 (excluding VAT), and you must provide the bakkie. The conversion takes about 10 weeks, and you get a oneyear warranty on the armour.

A standard Raptor costs R920 300, and Ford had not yet announced the price of the Raptor Special Edition at the time of going to print, but if you’re looking for an armoured B4 Raptor SE, get ready to spend around 1,5 million randelas!