A Ford Classic: The Bronco
Not all classics have to be coupes and sedans. One Ford classic that perhaps doesn't get quite the attention that it deserves in the Ford Bronco. The Ford Bronco was one of the first of heavy-duty consumer-oriented SUVs that was released. Ford manufactured and marketed the model from 1965 until 1966 when it was discontinued as Ford made way for the Ford Exhibition. But not for long! The Ford Bronco will be making a return this fall for the 2020 production year. Before it does, let's take a look at why that first generation of Ford Bronco is so desirable and why this Ford classic would make for a great restoration project for those who love more heavy-duty vehicles:
The Ford Bronco: A Heavy-Duty Ford Classic
The first generation of Ford Broncos was manufactured between 1966 and 1977. Today, concours-condition Broncos of this generation can fetch prices in the six-figure range. Concours-condition models are those that have been restored to a standard that meets or exceed what the vehicle was when first sold. Given that this model first priced at $2,400, this is a pretty fantastic resale for a '60s era Ford classic.
It is hard to quantify exactly why certain models like this become so attractive to today's hot rod and restoration industry, although the Ford Bronco certainly has its share of unique facets that set it apart even then from the competition. The very first of these models were built short, with just a 92-inch-long-wheelbase and a front coil suspension that made it comfortable and exciting to drive both in town and out on the trail. Ford also included its powerful V8 engine that made it attractive both to hot rodders and off-roaders. In fact, versions of this classic Ford were raced successfully in the Mexican 1000 Rally -- just check out these stellar videos.
During the first two years of the first generation Bronco, Ford offered the model as a roadster model with no doors and no roof. Instead, these models had metal inserts that covered the door mount in a manner similar to the open-air Willys CJ-5. However, while this body style earned its diehard fans, low sales of it led to it being withdrawn along with the half-cab in 1972. Today, both these body styles are some of the most desirable due to their being a rarity.
Restoring a Ford Bronco With Customs & Hot Rods of Andice
The Ford Bronco is the type of Ford classic that can be restored and customized any number of ways, all depending upon what you want that end result to be. For example, if what you want is a great looking Ford classic that offers stellar driving performance, then we recommend switching up the transmission and steering. First-gen Broncos were all three-speed with maximum speeds of 55 miles per hour -- not quite ideal for modern roads. So, if you have this Ford classic or another classic model that you want to beef up for more frequent driving and show and tell, schedule a visit at our shop and let's see what we can do!