One of the challenges when searching for a First Generation Ford Bronco is locating one that doesn’t require thousands of dollars worth of rust repairs. Floors and lower body panels are prone to problems, often requiring specialist attention. This 1977 Bronco Ranger isn’t immune, although a dry climate existence has left it more solid than many. The non-urgent nature of its issues means the new owner could drive it immediately while eradicating the rust at their leisure. The Bronco is listed here on eBay in Rosenberg, Texas. The seller set a BIN of $49,500, which is about where prices typically land for Rangers of this caliber.
The 1977 model year marked the end of the line for the First Generation Bronco. A replacement was waiting in the wings that would meet the sales potential Ford had envisaged for its first SUV. The first owner ordered this vehicle as the range-topping Ranger variant, complete with two-tone Light Blue and Wimbledon White paint. The seller believes most of the paint is original, with only the occasional minor touch-up. The presence of small chips and scratches is consistent with that belief, although only an in-person inspection will reveal the truth. Its panels are impressively straight for a vehicle of this type and age, and it is refreshing to see that nobody has cut the wheel arches to accommodate larger wheels and tires. That brings us to the subject of rust, which is always a serious consideration with these classics. The news is mainly positive because this Ford only found its way to the current location from California in 2021. Dry climates are excellent for steel preservation, with this classic’s rust confined to the typical area in both front inner fender wells. It isn’t extensive, and replacing the affected areas would be straightforward and inexpensive. Otherwise, the floors and frame carry nothing beyond surface corrosion that is easily treated. The trim and hubcaps are in good order, and the glass is clear.
Potential buyers searching for a turnkey off-roader may find this Bronco irresistible. Its engine bay houses the venerable 302ci V8, which sends 133hp and 246 ft/lbs of torque through a three-speed automatic transmission and a dual-range transfer case to Planet Earth. Maneuvering in tight locations and over rough terrain can be challenging, but this Ford’s power assistance for the steering and brakes makes light work of such tasks. The seller believes that this classic is a numbers-matching survivor. There are no fluid leaks from the drivetrain components, and they state the vehicle runs and drives well. The embedded video in their listing supports the claim, with the car sounding sweet and exceptionally quiet. Flying in and driving home appears to be a viable option.
One attraction of this Bronco is its consistency. It has no overwhelming standout feature. It isn’t showroom fresh but has no problems requiring immediate attention. This is true of the interior, which features Ranger Blue cloth and vinyl trim. The front seats show wear and splits, but the back seat and Blue carpet are in good order. Some sections of faux woodgrain exhibit minor lifting, but I believe a new owner could address that shortcoming with equal servings of patience and high-quality glue. Aftermarket additions include a modern CD player and a column-mounted bar graph tachometer. I believe that a new set of front seatcovers would lift the interior immensely without breaking the bank.
Many classics suffered during the market downturn in 2023, and the First Generation Bronco was no exception. Some have failed to recover, and even stalwarts like this are only doing so slowly. However, the critical point is that even though it is slow, that rebound is happening. That could make now an ideal time to consider vehicles like this if long-term investment potential forms part of your selection criteria. The seller’s price on this 1977 Bronco Ranger is consistent with market expectations, and I believe they will eventually taste success. Do you agree, or will this seller have to compromise to find it a new home?
This is a nice example. I just looked online, a brand new V6 Twin Turbo ‘Heritage Edition’ in Robin Eggs Blue has an MSRP of $54,585. I’m not sure what I would do if I wanted a Bronco.
I have that in school bus yellow!! Choose your poison 🤣
no many 2dor round here (the way ta go in my mind)
So many first gen Broncos on the market, why?
I think the bubble is about to burst.
$49k ???? The market is just plain crazy right now. No way would I put out that much cash and still have to do rust repair. Think a new one is the way to go.
You can blame Barrett Jackson and Mecum auction!!🤷
yes, auctions BUT…
also the net. Prices went up starting in ’92 w/rise of the net.
Pud’em 2 get her? redic-U-lost
What he said….
Not so sure about the no oil leaks comment something stained the underside of the hood. This will probably sell for close to the asking price, old broncos seem to be the craze for the last couple of years.
Remember. They’re only old, sort of original, and overpriced, once.
Don’t know about flying in and driving it home. Unless you can drive non-stop from California to Michigan, I’d be worried that it would be stolen somewhere along the way.
We have a robin egg blue ’23 Heritage paid $36k. I’m good. However, my uncle did have one back in the day in that color (a pickup version) that we used for hunting – I guess that’s what led to our buy last year.