Perseverance is an admirable trait, and Ford demonstrated this with the Bronco. Its First Generation model didn’t sell in the volumes expected, and it would have been understandable if the company chose to retire the badge. However, subsequent models achieved greater sales success, with the Bronco soldiering on until 1996. Such is the public’s affection for the Bronco that Ford reintroduced it to the market in 2021. Our feature Bronco is an XLT that rolled off the line in 1984. It isn’t perfect, but it could prove a satisfying first-time project for the right person. It is structurally sound and in good mechanical health, and the seller’s decision to offer it with No Reserve increases its appeal. The Bronco is listed here on eBay in Billings, Montana. Bidding has jumped to $8,500, and with No Reserve in play, a new owner and home are mere days away for this classic.

The Third Generation Bronco can be an imposing vehicle, particularly finished in Raven Black, with a set of larger wheels and tires. That ticks the boxes with this classic, guaranteeing it will turn heads. The seller indicates a previous owner treated it to a repaint in its original shade, but the “orange peel” and runs suggest the work isn’t high quality. There is also a significant collection of chips, scratches, and some paint checking. However, it remains presentable, with its cause being assisted by the later addition of the bold multi-hue graphics. Rust is minimal, with only a couple of patchable spots in the front fenders for the buyer to tackle. The rest of the exterior is solid, and the floors and frame feature nothing beyond surface corrosion. It looks like someone has updated the headlights to LED units which should turn night into day, while the side steps are a practical addition considering the increased vehicle height courtesy of the bigger wheels, tires, and a lift kit. The trim looks good for its age, and I can’t spot any glass issues.

If I were to use one word to describe this Bronco’s interior, it would be “serviceable.” If the aim of the game for the new owner is to use this classic for beating a path into the wilderness with its mud and other “icky” substances, it would be difficult to justify spending the money to replace items like the slightly worn carpet. The driver’s seatcover has a few slight edge tears, but it would be worth consulting an upholsterer about repair before spending cash on a replacement. One item demanding attention is the aftermarket wheel because it is loose. That the seller hasn’t addressed the flaw suggests it may be beyond help, calling for a replacement. Another addition is the CD player in place of the original radio and cassette player. The previous owner filled the void around the CD player with leather, but a competent buyer could fashion something with a better appearance. The dash pad has cracked, but it may prove repairable. The rear seat panels have holes from aftermarket speakers, and the most cost-effective solution may be to bolt in another set of speakers to provide entertainment for backseat occupants. This Bronco features air conditioning, but it is unclear whether it blows cold.

If potential buyers consider effortless access to the wilderness or effective use of the hitch receiver attached to this vehicle, they will probably want something under the hood offering good power and torque figures. This Bronco comes to the party with a 351ci V8 churning out 210hp and 305 ft/lbs of torque. The dual-range transfer case, three-speed automatic transmission, and power assistance for the brakes and steering should make driving duties fairly effortless when the going gets tough. With a vehicle of this type, the subject of ¼-mile ETs is essentially irrelevant. However, a figure of 18 seconds for an SUV tipping the scales at 4,740lbs remains impressive, as does its ability to cruise all day at highway speeds. The mechanical news for this classic seems to be positive because the seller recently sank some money into maintenance work. They replaced the ball joints, tie rods, brake components, plugs, plug wires, universal joints, steering components, the power steering pump, and many other parts. They state that it drives well for a vehicle of this type and age, making it ready for a life of adventure with a new owner behind the wheel.

While values for later Broncos haven’t soared to the stratospheric heights of First Generation models, they have risen steadily over the past five years. The 1984 Bronco XLT is no exception, but they remain affordable for enthusiasts seeking an SUV. Our feature vehicle isn’t perfect, but its needs are minor, and addressing them could prove satisfying for the new owner as time and circumstances allow. The current bid is in about the right area for an ’84 Bronco in this condition, which probably explains why it has only attracted eight bids. The price could push past $10,000, but I believe it won’t be by much if it does. If you are seeking a vehicle of this type, it could be worth watching this auction.