Determining when the bubble might burst for any vehicle in the classic world can be challenging. The First Generation Bronco is a perfect example because although values have fluctuated in recent months, they have genuinely trended up slightly. The indications are that the right vehicle still represents a sound investment, and the bidding on this 1973 model reflects that. It has the usual levels of rust and requires a total restoration, but it runs and drives. The Bronco is listed here on eBay in Cocoa, Florida. Bidding has raced to $12,600, although it remains short of the reserve.

This Limestone Metallic Bronco is 1-of-21,894 sold by Ford in 1973. It is missing a few parts, but nothing that couldn’t be sourced from one of the many companies producing high-quality replica components. However, the missing pieces are the tip of a substantial iceberg because this classic suffers from the typical First Generation Bronco rust. It is in the floors, rockers, lower A-Pillars, front inner fender wells, and several other areas. Steel is available to address the problem, but the buyer must decide their approach. Cutting away the problem areas and welding in the new parts would be easy but would not be the best solution. Not completing the repairs to a high standard will do little but invite a repeat visit by the dreaded tin worm. The new owner should probably dismantle this Ford to the last nut and bolt to perform a rotisserie restoration. This allows better access and helps ensure a high-end result. The wheel arches are cut for larger wheels and tires, which some might choose to reverse. The glass looks good, and although this project is a major commitment, the finished product could be worth the effort.

There’s no need to dwell too long on this Bronco’s interior because it needs almost everything. The back seat is present, but the fronts made way for a set of aftermarket units. The hole reserved for the factory radio houses a Pioneer radio/cassette player, the original wheel is gone, and there is a column-mounted tach. The most positive consideration is that no steel was cut during those updates, so reversal should be easy. The shopping list will be long, but a trim kit would seem the most logical choice once the buyer locates replacement front seats. Complete trim kits retail for under $2,000 and should achieve a factory appearance once installed.

Some 1973 Bronco buyers selected the entry-level six to power their new purchase, although most opted for the 302ci V8 with its 137hp and 230 ft/lbs of torque. This classic’s original owner chose optional driveline components like the three-speed automatic transmission and power steering for effortless off-roading. The combination was the best available, allowing the vehicle to operate effortlessly plunging through the wilderness or plying our highways. The engine bay looks tired, with plenty of corroded components. However, the seller states the vehicle runs and drives. It is unclear whether there are any mechanical maladies requiring attention, but the first impression is positive. If the buyer chooses a rotisserie restoration, detailing the mechanical components while the Bronco is dismantled would make an enormous difference to its final presentation.

Tackling a project like this 1973 Bronco is not for the faint-hearted. Its rust issues are significant, and the successful bidder will almost certainly perform a frame-off restoration to achieve a high-end result. That thought hasn’t proven an obstacle, with nine people submitting twenty-one bids with time remaining on the auction. Returned to its former glory, this Bronco could comfortably command a $70,000 price tag. Would that thought be enough to tempt you to join the bidding party?