Determining whether any classic has hit a sweet spot with potential buyers is sometimes challenging. However, this 1982 Ford Bronco XLT Lariat leaves no such doubts. Perhaps it is the wealth of factory options, or the odometer reading of 55,000 original miles that has piqued interest. Of course, the seller’s decision to list it with No Reserve may also help to explain why it has attracted thirty-five bids since it was listed here on eBay in Billings, Montana. The action has pushed the price to $10,001, with a new home days away for this classic.

It would have been easy for Ford to retire the Bronco badge when production of its First Generation offering ended in 1977. Sales were far below company expectations, but its replacement cemented the Bronco in Ford’s lineup when it sold in excellent numbers. The Third Generation appeared in 1980, and although it failed to generate as much market interest, it remained a relatively strong performer. This 1982 Bronco XLT Lariat left the Michigan factory in November 1981, ordered by its first owner in a striking combination of Medium Caramel Metallic and Wimbledon White. They also specified cast aluminum wheels, a chrome grille, and a chrome rear step bumper. It appears to be an original survivor that has never undergone any form of restoration. Interestingly, the first owner utilized the vehicle as a snow plow, which is often bad news for those with concerns about rust. However, it always found its way into a heated garage when the work was complete, allowing the snow to melt away rapidly. As a result, rust is confined to the lower rear quarter panels and the tailgate. Rectifying those issues would be easy, but there is further work required if this Bronco is to present at its best. The vehicle was caught outside in a severe hail storm, with every panel sporting minor dings and marks. The bumpers are also damaged, but the remaining trim and the glass look okay.

Powering this Bronco is Ford’s venerable 302ci V8, delivering 133hp and 222 ft/lbs of torque. Those figures sound modest by modern standards, but the 302 is what I typically refer to as a “lazy” motor. It produces most of its torque below 2,000rpm, making it ideal for off-road work. The rest of the drivetrain components include a three-speed automatic transmission, a dual-range transfer case, and power-assisted steering and brakes. The seller doesn’t mention verifying evidence for their mileage claim, although the vehicle’s history and condition make it plausible. They recently treated the Ford to a tune-up, a new battery, and a new starter. They say that the Bronco runs and drives well, and will happily sit on seventy on the open road.

If this Bronco has a strong point, that honor falls to its interior. The first owner loaded it with air conditioning, power windows, power locks, cruise control, a tilt wheel, and a flip/fold rear seat. They passed on a radio, although the installation of an aftermarket AM/FM radio/cassette player should relieve bordom on family adventures. Apart from one small carpet tear and a tiny hole on the driver’s seat, there are few faults worth mentioning. The Nutmeg cloth and vinyl hasn’t succumbed to age or wear, while the dash and woodgrain are in good order. The inside of any vehicle of this type can deteriorate due to the life they typically lead, but this Bronco carries the hallmarks of a vehicle that has always been treated respectfully.

The seller’s decision to list this 1982 Bronco XLT Lariat with No Reserve virtually guaranteed that it would attract attention. They probably aren’t disappointed by the action so far, and with plenty of time remaining before the hammer falls, there is scope for the price to climb further. It is worth noting that the ’82 XLT Lariat has been a star performer in the classic market recently, with values climbing well beyond the market average. The situation has stabilized somewhat, but that doesn’t mean that there isn’t scope for further gains. With all that you now know, what would you be prepared to pay for this classic?