Ford Bronco
Ford's original off-road icon — the first-gen Bronco is now one of the hottest collector vehicles in America.
The first-generation Ford Bronco is one of the fastest-appreciating collector vehicles in the American market. Its combination of compact dimensions, removable top, solid-axle off-road capability, and timeless styling has made it a cultural icon. Parnelli Jones' Bronco 'Big Oly' won the Baja 1000 consecutively in 1971 and 1972, cementing its off-road legend.
History
Ford designed the first Bronco as a direct competitor to the Jeep CJ and International Scout. Available in three body styles — half-cab pickup, roadster (no roof or rear body), and sport utility wagon — the Bronco offered versatility no competitor could match. The 170 inline-six was standard; the 289 V8 became available mid-production. All first-gen Broncos used a 92-inch wheelbase, giving them exceptional off-road agility.
By the late 1960s, the sport utility wagon had become the dominant body style. The 302 V8 replaced the 289, and refinements continued through 1977. The first-gen ended when Ford replaced it with the much larger 1978 Bronco on the F-100 platform. Today, restored and restomodded first-gen Broncos regularly sell for $100,000–$300,000+, making them one of the most dramatic collector car appreciation stories of the past decade.
Notable Versions
Roadster (1966–68)
No top, no rear body. The most open and most rare early Bronco body style.
Sport (1966–77)
The sport utility wagon — the definitive Bronco body style and the most common survivor.
Big Oly tribute
The legendary Parnelli Jones race Bronco won Baja back-to-back. Tribute builds command a premium.
What to Look for When Buying
Key inspection points from experienced collectors.
Frame rust is the primary concern
The frame rails and outriggers rust heavily on outdoor-stored examples. A full frame inspection — ideally on a lift — is non-negotiable.
Prices have risen dramatically
Quality first-gen Broncos now routinely sell for $80,000–$200,000. The days of finding undervalued examples are largely over.
Restomod builds are common and sometimes excellent
Many Broncos have been extensively modified. Verify what is original vs. aftermarket before valuing an example.
Roadster bodies are extremely rare
The open roadster body was only offered 1966–1968. Very few survive with their original body.
Quick Specs
- Engine options
- 170 I6, 200 I6, 289 V8, 302 V8
- Horsepower
- 105–205 hp
- Wheelbase
- 92 in
- Transmission
- 3-spd manual (standard), C4 automatic (optional)
- Body styles
- Roadster, Half-cab, Sport Utility Wagon
Market Price Guide
Approximate USA asking prices
Shop Parts
Find Ford Bronco parts on eBay
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Bring These to Your Inspection
A few inexpensive tools that catch what a walk-around alone won't
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Compression Tester Kit
Checks cylinder compression to catch worn rings or valve issues before you buy.
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OBD2 Code Reader
Reads check-engine codes the seller may not have mentioned — plug in before you even pop the hood.
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Magnetic Paint Thickness Tester
A magnet pulls weaker over filler/bondo than bare metal — a quick way to spot hidden bodywork.
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Telescoping Inspection Mirror & Light Set
See up into wheel wells and behind components without crawling underneath.
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Ford Bronco For Sale
12 listings currently available
