Life can be a feast or a famine at Barn Finds. We will sometimes find ourselves with a large number of a particular classic crossing our desks, and then they will disappear as if somebody turned off the tap. That has been the case with the First Generation Ford Bronco. They made a regular appearance on the site, but over two months have passed since we last saw one. This 1976 Bronco Ranger rights that wrong, and it does so in style. It underwent a frame-off refurbishment that has eliminated the rust issues for which these classics are renowned. It features a healthy V8 under the hood and is ready for action with a new owner behind the wheel. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Curvette for spotting this Ford listed here on Craigslist in Salem, Oregon. The seller set their price at $77,500 OBO, so why don’t we take a look to determine whether that figure is justified?

It is fair to say that Ford’s First Generation Bronco range didn’t create the market sensation the company initially envisaged, and sales swung wildly from what was a relatively low base. In 1974, a sudden upswing saw 25,824 buyers take home a Bronco. Wind forward to 1976, and that figure dropped by over 40% to 15,256. One year remained before its replacement hit showroom floors, and it was then that the badge realized the promise with impressive showroom tallies. This 1976 Bronco is a Ranger variant that was ordered by its first owner in Hatteras Green Metallic and Wimbledon White. The seller confirms that they performed a frame-off refurbishment that included replacing the rockers and any other suspect steel and ensuring that the frame was structurally sound. They supply some progress shots in their listing, demonstrating that no corners were cut during the build. They elected to apply paint to the rockers with a “patina” look, which I consider an odd decision, considering it isn’t consistent with the rest of the exterior. The car shines nicely, the panels are straight, and the trim and glass are in good condition. The vehicle sits higher thanks to a combination of a 1″ body lift and a 2½” suspension lift. This was probably deemed essential to allow clearance for the 17″ wheels without cutting the wheel arches.

The 302ci V8 under the hood of this Bronco would have generated 125hp and 220 ft/lbs of torque when this vehicle left the factory. It also features a three-speed automatic transmission, a dual-range transfer case, and power assistance for the steering and brakes. This Ford retains a 302, but it will undoubtedly place significantly more power at the driver’s disposal. Its rebuild included an upgraded camshaft, while the motor receives its air and fuel via a professionally installed and tuned Holley Sniper EFI system. A 2-into-1 James Duff exhaust with Flowmaster mufflers dumps the spent gases, and that is just the start of this mechanical journey. The rebuilt transmission features a shift kit, while the transfer case axles, brakes, suspension, and steering have all been either rebuilt or replaced. There is nothing left for the buyer to do but twist the key and hit the road.

This Bronco’s interior is a case of “something old, something new.” The carpet, dashpad, and paint all look fresh. The seller confirms that we can add the instrument cluster and wiring to the list, along with air conditioning from the folks at Classic Auto. I can also spot an aftermarket stereo and a timber wheel that doesn’t float my boat. The Green cloth and vinyl seatcovers show some wear, although there aren’t gaping holes or other problems. With the rest of the interior looking so nice, I would be tempted to splash the cash on new covers and seat foam to provide a more “complete” appearance.

The 1976 Bronco has ridden a rollercoaster during the past year, with those at the bottom end of the market dropping in value. However, those in excellent to pristine condition have climbed significantly as potential buyers seek vehicles with no major shortcomings. This 1976 Bronco Ranger seems to fit that mold, and recent successful sales suggest that the seller’s price is realistic. Of course, their willingness to negotiate might improve the situation, and that is a question that is worth asking. After all, it costs nothing to ask, and what is the worst that they can say?