Early Ford Broncos continue to sit near the top of the classic 4×4 wish list, even when they show up in rough, project-grade condition. This 1971 Ford Bronco, currently listed on eBay, is very much in that category. It’s not being sold as a finished truck or a light refresh—it’s described plainly as a fixer-upper, aimed at someone ready to take on a full project.
This Bronco is equipped with a 302 V8, a manual transmission, and four-wheel drive, all key ingredients that helped make the first-generation Bronco such a capable and desirable off-road vehicle when new. It’s a two-door SUV with seating for four and retains its classic short-wheelbase Bronco layout. The truck wears a blue exterior with a white interior, though the seller makes it clear that condition, not color, is the story here.
The biggest factors buyers will want to note are the salvage title and the body condition. According to the seller, the truck was shipped from the East Coast, and while the frame is described as solid, the body has extensive rust damage. No attempt is made to downplay that reality. This Bronco is being offered as a project that will require bodywork, restoration, or potentially a full rebuild depending on the buyer’s plans.
That honesty is important, because early Broncos have reached a point in the market where even rough examples still attract attention. Many enthusiasts are willing to start with a compromised body if the foundation is usable, especially given how strong the aftermarket and reproduction support for these trucks has become. Frames, panels, and mechanical components are all widely available, making projects like this feasible for someone with the right skill set—or budget.
The listing does not claim recent driving status or mechanical readiness, and mileage is listed as unavailable. There’s also no mention of documentation beyond the salvage title. What is clear is that this Bronco is positioned as an entry point into early Bronco ownership, not a turnkey solution.
For the right buyer, this could be the start of a long-term build—whether that means a period-correct restoration, a trail-focused 4×4, or a modernized restomod built on a classic shell. For others, the rust and salvage title may be deal-breakers. Either way, it reflects the reality of today’s Bronco market, where even rough survivors still have a following.
Would you rather start with a clean, finished Bronco—or take on a project like this and build it exactly the way you want?
This one will show up on a classic car web site, in a year or so. With a 6 inch lift, a Coyote, and an automatic. With a six figure ask, so Brad and Susan can take it “off roading” to the winery.
Nice write-up Elizabeth, Sure would be nice for seller to post photos of the front drivers/ passengers floors, underneath, and info…does the motor turn, etc.
This truck needs to be returned to original as possible as a driver or full restore to factory look. The colors are great, 302, 3speed, seems to be all there.
I really don’t want to see anymore of these terrible riding and driving things. People have gone crazy over these for some unknown reason. I’ve driven many back when they were new and didn’t like them then.
Also Squash. Tim didn’t like it back then but Mom made us eat it. Tim will not be looking at any more squash either. Put up pictures we like or else!
odd angle for the gear selector. I’d say “Pretty rust free” but need an ‘under shot’ for a look from here… (this is a west coaster’s description).
These are hit’n miss Mr.Hanson (BTW: there isa GREAT aftr mrkt co w/ur name supplying the bronks) but hit w/more folks than not. U can proudly say you’re a rare kinda fella. This summer I acquired GBS (1 ina mill R effected by this syndrome). I was unlucky, U are fortunate. For the complaints:
Got mine’n easily corrected those issues named – in ’82 (but like any rest0mod I’m never finished w/the ‘project’).
For the life of me, I do not understand the allure of these old Broncos. Yeah, they look kinda cool but they have a god awful ride and calling it a spartan interior is being kind.
But, whatev’s.
Sold.