When Ford released the First Generation Bronco in 1966, it had high hopes for its latest offering. Initial sales were considered respectable, but they never reached the levels the company expected during twelve years of production. However, times change, and the Bronco remains one of the hottest properties in the classic market. That is especially true if the vehicle in question is unmolested and rust-free. This 1966 Bronco ticks those boxes but adds an odometer reading of 35,000 genuine miles to the list. It needs a new home, with the seller listing it here on eBay in Boulder Junction, Wisconsin. They set a BIN of $49,900 but will entertain offers.

The seller indicates this Bronco wears some of its original paint in Caribbean Turquoise and Wimbledon White. It retains an impressive shine, although what appears to be primer on the passenger side rocker and rear quarter panel is a mystery that remains unexplained. The panels are straight, and nobody has seen fit to cut the wheel openings to accommodate larger wheels and tires. I haven’t been skirting the subject, so it’s time to consider potential rust issues. In a nutshell, there are none. Someone had the good sense to undercoat this Bronco early, meaning prone areas like the floors, rockers, and front inner wheel wells are rock solid. The vehicle retains its original exterior trim, and the glass looks excellent.

I happily admit I was pleasantly surprised when I saw this Bronco’s interior. Apart from what appears to be a compass on the dash, there are no aftermarket additions. More impressively, the seat is free from rips and significant wear, most of the painted surfaces present well, and the dash pad hasn’t succumbed to harsh UV rays. The paint in the rear cargo area has scratches and scrapes, but returning that area to its former glory is a task the new owner could tackle in a home workshop. The speedometer has a clear lens and crisp markings, and there’s no wear on the wheel. Potential buyers shouldn’t look for optional extras because there are none apart from the fresh air heater.

The original owner chose to forego the entry-level six-cylinder engine to power their new purchase, selecting the 289ci V8 the company introduced in March 1966. It sends 200hp and 282 ft/lbs of torque to the road via a three-speed manual transmission, a dual-range transfer case, and a limited-slip rear end. That V8 would run out of breath with the needle nudging 80mph, but the Bronco should cruise all day at 60mph without raising a sweat. The engine delivers most of its power and torque at around 2,000rpm, allowing it to easily crawl over some hostile terrain. The seller claims the Bronco has 35,000 genuine miles on the clock, and they hold supporting documentation confirming the reading. As well as complete Service Records, they include the original Window Sticker, Bill of Sale, and Tax Statement. They supply this excellent YouTube video. It is slightly longer than most we see, but it provides a detailed walk-around and allows us to see and hear this beauty in action. The motor sounds as sweet as a nut, and the Bronco wanders along happily with no odd noises or other problems.

Ford knew something about the First Generation Bronco that many potential buyers failed to recognize; The Bronco was a capable vehicle in most situations. It was a competent performer on highways, especially with the sweet V8 under the hood. Its excellent ground clearance and dual-range transfer case allowed it to venture deep into the wilderness. A 1966 sales total of 23,776 vehicles was below its expectations, and it would take until 1974 for the Bronco to eclipse that figure. Today, spotless examples will commonly command sale prices beyond $60,000, with $80,000 for perfect vehicles not beyond market expectations. This 1966 model isn’t perfect, but its originality, condition, and odometer reading place the BIN figure within the ballpark. When a classic costs this much, it is unlikely the seller will be swamped with inquiries. However, with three weeks left on the listing, I believe it might find a new home before it ends.