There’s something appealing about being able to remove the top on a full-size SUV. Well, maybe any SUV for that matter. This 1982 Ford Bronco affords you that opportunity. It can be found here on eBay in Gilbert, Arizona. After 29 bids the current high bid is $4,000, but the reserve has not been met.
I’ve gotten used to the fact that a lot of my classic car opinions aren’t widely shared, so I’m comfortable with sharing another one – the third-generation Ford Bronco is the best of the early bunch. It debuted for the 1980 model year following the short second-generation run and lasted through the 1986 model year before receiving a significant restyle. Ford built 322,429 Broncos during the 3rd generation’s 7-year run – 40,782 of those were from the 1982 model year.
There’s no mistaking this Bronco is from the 1980s. Ford offered at least three shades of beige and two shades of brown for 1982. I think this one is a good execution of those two tones. The original paint looks to be in good shape, but the seller says it “has seen better days…it’s fading and cracking but is presentable.” The only rust noted is on the tailgate and the seller tells us the body “has a few dings and scratches here and there but overall in good shape.” The chrome wagon wheels and raised white letter tires complete that ultimate 1980s look.
Naturally, the beige/brown theme continues inside. This isn’t a show quality interior but will get the job done if you want to leave as-is. The seats were recovered in the early aughts and are starting to show their age. The dash is cracked and there’s some door panel damage noted, but the carpet looks like it may have life left in it after a deep cleaning. I’m not a fan of the GT steering wheel, but that’s a simple enough change.
A 302 cubic-inch V8 powers this Bronco. A column-shifted 3-speed automatic transmission sends power to the rear wheels – or all 4 when engaged. The carburetor was just rebuilt and the seller says the engine “starts right up, runs good, [and has] plenty of power” but the transmission “is on its way out.”
This Bronco looks to be a good candidate for a running and driving restoration. Aside from that transmission that is shifting at high RPMs, it sounds like much of the work will be cosmetic. This is a classic I’d like to put in my imaginary infinite-car garage.
Jonny, I like this generation of Broncos too. This one needs attention, but after some mechanical and cosmetic work, it would be a very good example. Can’t beat beige and brown for that period-correct early 80’s look.
I love my big black and tan 1989 Eddie Bauer Bronco! It is my mountain truck, really rough around the edges. A 4×4 with manual locking hubs, powered by 5.8L EFi V-8 351.9 cui, it produces 210 hp / 315 lb-ft of torque, and smogs easily everytime!
It is perfect for my needs. With the big pushbar up front and oversized tires with a lift kit it performs 3 duties: 1) Evacuation in a CA wildfire, 2) Tows a trailer (to pick up project cars or trips to the dump) and 3) Is great for getting the Christmas Tree!
They are not collectible, have low values and are a ton of fun! The fiberglass “capper” is difficult to remove and put back on, next summer it is being replaced by a lightweight canvas cap.
This is a nice example of the bullnose 3rd gen trucks. Looks straight outta ‘82!! I was excited when the ‘82s came out because they had the Ford oval in the grille!
The Bronco we don’t deserve
This is the uglyest bronco I’ve ever seen this is for color blind people
I can’t agree more. Ford did a lot of this crazy color combo stuff in the early 80’s. Say, wasn’t that about the time cocaine was so popular?
It needs beige shag carpet and then it would be perfect :-)
You’re entitled to your opinion even if it’s WRONG!
SOLD for $5,900.
I’d much rather have a “big” 1978-1990whatever (96?) Bronco than one of the first generation rigs or, God forbid, the even uglier new ones which aren’t even in showrooms yet!