Classic Ford Bronco Review

Since its debut in 1966, the Ford Bronco has been one of the most iconic SUV lines, and it has even retained its legendary status in the nearly 30 years that it was absent from Ford's production line. And when they brought it back, it wasn't like those wannabe name-bearers. When unveiled in 2021, the sixth-gen Bronco embodied the silhouette and nature of its predecessors, including the very first Bronco. Sure, you can have all of them, but sometimes, we don't always get what we want. Will it be the agile Bronco II of the 1980s that appealed to a new generation of urban explorers? Or the full-size Bronco models of the 1980s and 1990s that became synonymous with rugged reliability and versatility? Nevertheless, each generation of the classic Ford Bronco tells a unique story of its era that will probably echo through the years and continue to inspire future generations.

Choose Your Era

Picking out a Ford Bronco generation to buy purely based on performance leaves you with some interesting options. If you have an eye for a first-gen, the later 302 CID V8 is the engine to go for, as it offers a strong balance of power and durability. Power output during production was 200-ish horsepower, which was never achieved again until the third generation Bronco, specifically in the models with the 5.0-liter V8. The 351 CID V8 used in the second-gen is a bit low in power and has quite the appetite for fuel. Ford continued to use the 5.0-liter V8 until 1996 when they discontinued the fifth-gen Bronco. Even though the sixth-gen later got a V8, it was a bummer that it was unveiled with a V6.

Built To Last

Every classic Ford Bronco's cabin prioritizes functionality over comfort and luxury, a characteristic that even restomods preserve, making them all the more endearing. In most cases, the seats have basic vinyl upholstery, and only in rare cases will you find leather or cloth seats. Interior equipment in early models is minimal, often limited to an AM/FM radio and a cassette player. However, later models gradually evolved to offer more comfortable interiors, balancing functionality and comfort. For instance, dashboards were redesigned with improved layouts and controls, enhancing usability and the overall driving experience.

The Original Box On Wheels

Ford has consistently designed the Bronco with a boxy, utilitarian look, a defining characteristic that has made it instantly recognizable even without the badge. However, it would have been better if later generations had retained the pickup-style body of the first generation. The Bronco's primary focus remained on functionality throughout its production, resulting in minimal changes to its body style between generations, aside from tweaks like headlight designs and added chrome accents. The first major update came with the Bronco II, which introduced a compact and sporty design accentuated by a sloped hood and tailgate. This sporty aesthetic became more pronounced in the fourth generation, which featured a more muscular appearance. The fifth generation, on the other hand, adopted a more modernized design.

Built For Adventure

Being products of the 20^th Century with a focus on off-roading, classic Ford Broncos aren't known for lavish features. The most you could expect in terms of amenities are an AM/FM radio, power windows, and a cassette player, with air conditioning becoming standard in later models. All generations were equipped with a 4WD system, though the specifics varied. Early generations featured a part-time four-wheel-drive system, while later generations offered a selectable one. Some of the later models even included locking differentials for improved traction. Overall, technology, including inside the cabin, throughout the Ford Bronco's production until the fifth generation remained focused on functionality for off-road driving.

There's A Classic Bronco For Every Budget

Classic Ford Broncos vary widely in price, ranging from a few thousand dollars to hundreds of thousands. Early Broncos, particularly first-generation models, tend to be more valuable, especially if they are original or restored to their original condition. Special editions often sell for higher prices, sometimes reaching surprisingly high figures. Other factors influencing prices include mileage, condition, and trim level. At Exotic Car Trader, we offer all iterations of the Ford Bronco, catering to diverse needs and budgets. Whether you're looking for something rare and unique or a Bronco to build, we have options to suit your preferences.

Final Thoughts

Classic Ford Broncos are testaments to simple but highly functional automotive engineering that has captivated enthusiasts for the longest time. So, do you crave the unadulterated off-road prowess early model years offer, or do you desire a touch of modern comfort without sacrificing the Bronco Spirit? Exotic Car Trader creates an exclusive and safe way of buying and selling cars, eliminating the daunting experiences of private selling for buyers and sellers. Every vehicle listed on Exotic Car Trader goes through a private seller verification process, ensuring legitimacy for our buyers. Also, Exotic Car Trader's car buying process is well outlined, with all fees and packages providing our buyers with a seamless and inclusive experience. We can handle the escrow of funds at no additional cost to the buyer and seller, and we also provide trade-in and financing options for buyers. For transaction safety, our Transactions Team is world-class and equipped with industry fraud detection tools to ensure a safe and secure transaction. These are just some of the benefits you enjoy when buying or selling on Exotic Car Trader. Contact us for listing services or to buy a car on Exotic Car Trader today! Ultimately, the choice is yours. Whether you yearn for back-to-basics simplicity or a hint of modern convenience, there's a classic Bronco for you.