The 1967 model year disappointed Ford when they viewed sales results for their Bronco range. After showing much promise during its first year, sales slumped to a mere 14,230 vehicles for the second year of production. However, times change, and an off-roader that was largely unloved when new has developed into one of the hottest properties in the classic market. Spotless examples can command incredible prices, forcing aspiring Bronco owners to scramble for promising project cars. That is what the seller offers here, and its original and largely unmolested status adds to its appeal. The Bronco is listed here on eBay in Monaca, Pennsylvania. The bidding has raced to $6,600 in a No Reserve auction.
It looks like this Bronco has led a colorful life, and I mean that literally. The panels wear a combination of Harbor Blue and Rangoon Red, but evidence suggests it rolled off the production line finished in Frost Turquoise. The buyer will undoubtedly strip the panels to bare metal as part of a high-end restoration. One saving grace for this classic is that nobody has performed the common modification of cutting its wheel arches to accommodate larger wheels and tires. This in itself is not a drama because the steel to reverse that change is easy to find and inexpensive. However, in this case, it represents one less task and cost for the new owner. The frame carries a heavy coat of surface corrosion, but the seller says it is structurally sound. I can spot rust in a few panels, but the state of the floors and front inner fenders are unclear. Once again, these are areas that are known weak points, and many owners face cutting and welding. The initial impression is positive, but only an in-person inspection will reveal the truth. The new owner will need to splash some cash sourcing trim pieces if they seek perfect presentation, but when you consider the potential value of this Ford once the buyer downs tools for the final time, the expense is justified.
Ford offered potential buyers two engines to power their new 1967 Bronco, with this classic’s original owner selecting the sweet 289ci V8. A three-speed manual was the only available transmission, while a dual-range transfer case gave the Bronco excellent off-road capabilities. It isn’t a muscle car, but with 200hp and 282 ft/lbs of torque on tap, the ¼-mile ET of 17.7 seconds was considered respectable for a vehicle of this type. Top speed was limited to 96mph, but this Ford should still cruise happily at highway speeds on its path to off-road adventures. This Bronco is numbers-matching, which will maximize its potential value. The seller indicates the motor is in excellent health, and the four-wheel-drive system worked perfectly before the owner parked the vehicle. It needs a new fuel tank and clutch, but the cost of returning it to a roadworthy state should not be too bad.
One aspect of this Bronco that requires love is its interior. It doesn’t feature a back seat, but sourcing one to transform it into a genuine family vehicle should be easy. A few hard trim pieces have disappeared, and the painted surfaces require a refresh. The buyer will probably opt for a trim kit and a new wheel to return the interior to a factory-fresh state. That will lighten their wallet by around $2,500 but represents another wise investment. There are no aftermarket additions, and its owners have avoided the common temptation of converting the transmission to a floor shifter.
Regular readers and those who monitor the classic market will know that the First Generation Bronco is experiencing a new lease on life. The seller quotes a potential value of $90,000 once fully restored. Usually, I view such figures with a pinch of salt, but recent sales results support the claim. It has taken twenty-one bids to lift the price to its current level, and with No Reserve in play, this Bronco will head to a new home in a few days. The current price looks modest compared to some we’ve recently seen, but I suspect that situation will change. If you find hot auction action entertaining, this one could be worth watching. Of course, if you don’t want to watch, you could always drop a bid or two.
Never understood why something basically ugly, poorly constructed and rust prone is in such high demand. The only early Broncos I really like are the modified ones which includes cutting out the weird shaped rear quarter panels. No way would I put the amount of money into this rig it’s going to take to restore it.
Ya, we serviced a customer’s ’72 last year, and he paid WAY too much for it. 32K to be exact, and went on to spend another 10K for us to make it right.
Been there, done that with our customers but never felt really good about it. Kicked the guilt trip by warning them about buying the cars or convince them to get rid of them. It paid the rent. Same kind of deal on cars that were wrecked beyond proper repair. Had one customer’s insurance company say they wouldn’t pay our estimate so took it to a hammer and body filler shop. It was so bad that they brought it back for us to fix. No secret what we told them
You may not understand it, but the enthusiasm, especially in the PNW for these 1st gens is real. Just last week Florence Oregon held its annual Bronco Roundup and when the Broncos come to town they fill the streets. Wife and I drove down Bay Street, the main drag of tiny Old Town Florence and we counted 42 of em. The main attraction for them are the nearby dunes that run for miles up and down the beach here. It’s quite a sight to see.
https://northwestbroncoroundup.com/gallery/
Agreed! I haven’t made it to the Florence event yet but I attended the SOB event near Tillamook 3 times – one time driving my Bronco from Phoenix. What a blast.
These Bronco’s are saving the poor guys that sunk cash into Scouts and Blazers. A rising tide floats all boats. Even the anchor’s.
Being a NW PA.Bronco it probably has some serious rust issues.
Looks like it has a front fender from a ‘76 on it.