Timing can sometimes be everything when purchasing a classic car. Buying when prices are at their peak means not only paying a premium but it could also see the new owner fall victim to the specter of depreciation. Those factors are serious considerations in the light of recent market volatility. Prices have tumbled on many desirable vehicles, but there are indications that the trend is about to change. That could make now the ideal time for an enthusiast to set their sights on the vehicle of their dreams. If yours has been a First Generation Bronco, this 1974 Ranger might be an ideal choice. It is a largely original and solid classic featuring a healthy V8 under the hood. It has no apparent needs, meaning a new owner could turn the key and drive it away. The Bronco is listed here on Craigslist in Vacaville, California. The seller set their price at $78,000, and I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder ToddK for spotting it.

This Bronco makes a striking first impression in its combination of Light Grabber Blue and Wimbledon White. The seller claims that the paint is original and that only 146 Rangers wore that combination in 1974. I have found no evidence to support that assertion, but I’m hoping that one of our readers might be able to enlighten us. They stress that the Bronco isn’t perfect, with the typical selection of marks and imperfections you might expect after nearly five decades of active service. The panels are straight, but the Ranger’s lack of apparent rust could be the most positive news. Nothing is visible in the supplied shots, and no problems are mentioned in the listing. Life in California is conducive to classic metal preservation, which could be the case here. The vehicle sports a lift kit and slightly larger tires, but nobody cut the fenders to accommodate the change. The trim looks good for its age, and I can’t spot any glass issues.

This classic’s drivetrain components are standard First Generation Bronco fare. They include a 302ci V8, a three-speed automatic transmission, a dual-range transfer case, power steering, and power brakes. The seller doesn’t describe the vehicle as numbers-matching. However, their claim it has 71,000 genuine miles on the clock suggests the major components are original. They recently replaced the rear brakes and hubs, both fuel tanks, fitted the lift kit, bolted in Bilstein shocks, added a 2½” Magnaflow exhaust, and fitted new BF Goodrich tires. It appears the results were worth the time, effort, and expense. This Bronco runs and drives perfectly. The V8 kicks into life at the first turn of the key. There are no rattles or odd noises, and the new owner can consider it a turnkey classic.

The seller recently lavished attention on this Bronco’s interior. The painted surfaces aren’t perfect, but that is the only criticism. Removing the interior was the first step before the seller applied Dynamat to the floors, roof, and inner doors. A new carpet set and headliner were the next additions, with the seats receiving new Blue cloth and vinyl covers and a new pad finding its way onto the dash. The results are dramatic, with the positive aspects making the few minor chips and marks on the paint seem insignificant. It is refreshing that there aren’t any apparent modifications or aftermarket additions. The AM radio occupies its rightful place in the dash, and the shifter for the automatic transmission remains on the column.

This 1974 Bronco Ranger won’t appeal to a perfectionist, but someone seeking a survivor-grade classic may find it irresistible. It isn’t totally original, but reversing the mechanical upgrades wouldn’t pose many challenges. Market trends over the last three months have seen a slight improvement in values, which could be the first sign that the tide has turned. Buying when prices are low is a wise strategy, and if a First Generation Bronco has been on your radar, maybe your search ends here.