When a seller uses the word “gorgeous” in a listing, it is a bold move. Sometimes, beauty is in the eye of the beholder, but it seems appropriate when describing the paint on this 1984 Ford Bronco. Its interior is equally tidy, but this classic requires TLC before it turns a wheel in anger once again. It has generated respectable interest since hitting the market, although the action hasn’t been overwhelming. The seller listed the Bronco here on eBay in East Hampton, New York. Bidding sits at $3,700, which is below the reserve.
Ford released its Third Generation Bronco for the 1980 model year. Its predecessor was always going to be a tough act to follow, selling in record numbers. The company’s latest offering didn’t reach the same dizzy heights, but its production volume justified its place in Ford’s model range. One of the pleasures when writing for Barn Finds is to delve into Sales Brochures for particular vehicles, because manufacturers use some fascinating terminology. Ford describes the Midnight Blue and Light Charcoal Metallic paint on this Bronco’s exterior as the “Deluxe Tu-Tone” combination, and the condition seems to justify the seller’s use of the word “gorgeous” in their listing. There’s little to criticize about its appearance, with no evidence of fading, patchiness, or general deterioration. This is particularly impressive when we discover the Bronco has spent most of its life in Arizona and California. Both states feature climates that are excellent for steel preservation, but can cause major paint problems. This beauty hasn’t suffered that fate, and the only rust is dry surface corrosion, which is typical for those regions. The front bumper exhibits some deterioration, but the remaining trim and the glass are in good order.
While Ford offered ’84 Bronco buyers a choice of V8 engines to power their new purchase, this classic’s first owner selected the 300ci six. It would have delivered 120hp and 250 ft/lbs of torque in its prime, fed to the road via a four-speed manual transmission and a dual-range transfer case. With power-assisted steering and brakes, this Bronco promised an effortless driving experience. The power and torque figures don’t sound impressive by modern standards, but this Ford could spring a surprise. The engine’s torque peaks very low in the rev range, making the six an exceptionally flexible powerplant delivering pretty impressive fuel economy figures. The seller purchased the vehicle in 2018 and is forced to sell it due to an impending relocation. They state that it doesn’t run or drive and needs a new engine wiring harness to achieve that. I performed a very brief online search and found the appropriate kit for under $300. It appears that with that item installed, fresh tires, and a service and inspection, this Bronco might be ready for summer fun without costing a fortune.
The Bronco’s Blue interior features a winning combination of cloth and vinyl, and the only weak points appear to be the faded carpet on the floors and lower door trims, and the cracked dashpad. Neither problem is severe, and if the winning bidder doesn’t wish to splash $250 on a carpet set and $425 on a replacement pad, mats and a cover would hide the shortcomings very cheaply. Otherwise, the seatcovers are free from problems, with the back seat looking particularly good. There are no visible aftermarket additions, and although it doesn’t feature the convenience of power windows, the factory air conditioning, cruise control, and AM/FM radio/cassette player should make life aboard this classic pretty comfy.
The seller suggests this 1984 Bronco would be the ideal starting point for a custom build. Some readers may agree, finding the lure of bolting something more potent under the hood irresistible. Others will contend that the existing motor offers an excellent blend of performance and economy, and would perform the electrical work required to return the vehicle to active service. It has attracted a mere six bids, but with seventeen people adding it to their Watch List in the last day, that figure could climb significantly. Is this a classic that piques your interest? If so, are you tempted to become more than an interested spectator in the auction? I wish you luck if you choose to make a play for this Bronco.
I really like this Bronco. If it were mine Id maybe do something about the carpets, but otherwise I’d keep it as is, right down to the 300 and 4 speed. I was expecting a 351 and an automatic . I might go with a nice set of stock rims though.
I’m with Dave. This looks like a well-kept Bronco which could use a few straightforward upgrades. I’m also fine with the straight six and 4-speed. And for me, dark blue/silver is a great combination.