Parting with a classic that has been part of the same family since it rolled off the showroom floor over five decades ago can’t be easy, but it is the decision made by the owners of this 1969 Ford Bronco. It isn’t perfect, but the supplied images in their listing suggest that returning it to its former glory may not be difficult. It has generated considerable interest since the seller listed the Bronco here on eBay in Cambridge, Minnesota. Frantic bidding has pushed the price to $22,100 in a No Reserve auction.

Ford’s First Generation Bronco sold relatively well during its initial production year, although sales slumped by 40% the following year. The total climbed above 20,000 for 1969 but never met the company’s expectations. This family ordered their Bronco in Royal Maroon, and they don’t mention a history of restoration or repairs. The photos suggest it has received touch-up work, but I don’t believe it has undergone a complete repaint. It wears the minor scars and dings you might expect for a vehicle of this type, and the paint has seen better days. Most potential buyers will have a restoration on their mind, but some may view preservation as viable. There is visible minor rust in a couple of spots, notably the lower tailgate. However, the underside shots suggest the vehicle was undercoated at some point. I can’t spot any penetrating rust, although an in-person inspection is always warranted with First Generation Broncos. The glass is in good order, and the vehicle retains its original chrome, trim, and hubcaps.

This Bronco is consistent, with its interior as tired and worn as its exterior. It requires a complete retrim, but kits for returning it to its former glory are readily available and affordable. It is serviceable, but new seatcovers, a pad, a mat, and refreshed paint would make an enormous difference. I can’t spot any aftermarket additions, and even the shifter remains in its rightful place.

The big news for 1969 reveals itself when we lift this Bronco’s hood. Ford enlarged the capacity of its V8 offering from 289ci to 302ci. This change brought a welcome increase in power and torque from 195hp and 288 ft/lbs to 205hp and 300 ft/lbs. That isn’t much, but it gave the ’69 Bronco extra pep in its step. The rest of the drivetrain is standard fare, with a three-speed manual transmission sending power to the road via a dual-range transfer case. The seller confirms the odometer has rolled over, with this Ford having 102,000 miles on the clock. However, they supply no information on how the vehicle runs or drives. First Generation Bronco mechanical components are renowned for being bulletproof, meaning it should be in sound health if it has been maintained appropriately and treated respectfully. Still, it is a question worth asking when sinking a five-figure sum into what many consider a luxury purchase.

You only need to look at the auction action to gain insight into the popularity of First Generation Broncos. This 1969 model has attracted sixty-one bids, and things typically intensify as the end draws near. The visual indications are positive, although the listing lacks crucial information that would allow interested parties to make an informed choice. The No Reserve factor means it will find a new home. It would be worth monitoring the auction, even if you aren’t serious about parking it in your garage. The final sale price will be interesting, and the action during the closing minutes could be fascinating.