It is a question for the ages: How far must a classic deteriorate before restoration is no longer viable? That is the one posed by this 1974 Ford Bronco Ranger. It makes a relatively positive first impression, but digging below the surface reveals challenges requiring deep dedication and a healthy wallet to address. However, that hasn’t stifled interest in this classic, which has received twenty-seven bids since the seller listed it here on eBay in Chester, New York. The action has pushed the price to $11,900, which is beyond the reserve.

The First Generation Bronco has always fascinated me. Ford’s manufacturing capacity meant there was scope to produce these vehicles in significant quantities, but sales were below the company’s expectations. The option was available to discontinue the badge at any time, but continuing production, even in limited numbers, allowed Ford to recoup the vehicle’s development costs. This Ranger rolled off the line during the most successful year, with 25,824 buyers parking one in their garage. The Trim Tag confirms its original owner ordered it in Sandpiper Yellow, but it received a color change to its current Gold shade at an unknown time. Tackling its positive attributes first, it is an unmodified project candidate. It retains its original wheels and hubcaps, meaning nobody has cut the fenders to accommodate larger wheels and tires. The trim is intact, and the glass looks good. Okay, it is time to draw a deep breath and consider the automotive Mount Everest facing the winning bidder. This Bronco has rust problems, which is not unusual. It has impacted the typical areas like the lower body extremities, floors, rockers, and inner front fenders. Steel to address the problems is readily available and affordable, and we have seen Broncos with worse problems dragged back from the brink. However, there is also structural rust in the frame, and this could prove a drama. There are no shortcuts with this type of problem because occupant safety could be compromised if the issue isn’t addressed to a high standard. The seller believes it might be repairable, but they float the idea of sourcing a replacement. Secondhand frames seem the most affordable option, but a brief online search uncovered a company that manufactures new ones for under $3,000. That might be the ultimate solution if a high-end result is the new owner’s goal.

The surprise packet with this Bronco could be its interior because its condition isn’t bad. The factory radio has made way for a radio/cassette player, and apart from holes cut in the doors for speakers, there are no other apparent changes. The seats are free from rips and significant wear, and deep cleaning of the upholstered surfaces might produce positive results. The dash and pad look nice, there is no significant wheel wear, and the shifter remains in its rightful place on the column. The carpet is tired and is beyond help. That might be the only item requiring replacement, although the new owner could spend $2,000 on a retrim if they seek perfection. One positive aspect of this interior is the air conditioning. It is guaranteed to make life inside this classic comfortable, regardless of what territory it tackles.

The original owner ordered this Bronco with the range-topping 302ci V8 that sent 137hp and 230 ft/lbs of torque to the road via a three-speed automatic transmission and a dual-range transfer case. Power steering and brakes ensure that tackling harsh terrain from behind the wheel of this classic would be effortless. Now that I’ve lulled you into a false sense of security, it is time to reveal some hard facts about this classic. Its V8 doesn’t run, and returning it to that state won’t be a weekend’s work. It has thrown a rod bearing, which has punched a hole in the oil pan. The saving grace is that the seller believes the engine block is okay, so it may only require some machining and a rebuild before the 302 purrs again. However, that is another significant expense in a restoration that already looks pretty expensive.

Returning this 1974 Ford Bronco Ranger to its former glory isn’t for the faint-hearted, and it is unlikely to be cheap. But is it justified? A high-end restoration would yield a value above $50,000 in the current market, although perfection would push the price to $75,000. If the vehicle sells for around the present figure, that leaves room to move on the build before it becomes financially questionable. The auction action confirms people see the potential locked away in this classic, but is that enough to tempt you to join the bidding war?