The time of year has arrived when some people are set to head to the ski fields. The biggest challenge may not be remaining upright as they tackle the white powder, but how to complete the return journey safely. Vehicles like this 1996 Ford Bronco Eddie Bauer could be ideal candidates, offering competent handling and grip in adverse conditions. This Bronco isn’t perfect, but it is a turnkey proposition that hasn’t succumbed to rust. The seller has listed it here on eBay in Clermont, Florida. Bidding has reached a relatively modest $8,988, and with No Reserve to muddy the water, this Eddie Bauer is days away from finding a new home.

It seemed the end of the line for the Bronco badge in 1996 as production drew to a close. The Fifth Generation experienced a sales slump, with only 34,130 buyers purchasing a Bronco that year. Ford would eventually revive the Bronco, but it would be absent from the market for over two decades before that happened. This final-year example is an Eddie Bauer Edition, ordered by its first owner in Oxford White and Light Saddle. This was 1-of-5 two-tone paint combinations offered to Eddie Bauer Edition buyers, and is considered the most subtle. The seller states that the vehicle received a repaint approximately three years ago, which explains the lack of paint and panel imperfections. Its beauty is more than skin deep, with the image gallery confirming that this garage-kept Bronco is rust-free. The trim and glass are in good condition, and the upgraded 15″ wheels and Mickey Thompson tires should improve this Bronco’s already impressive off-road capability.

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, as demonstrated by this Bronco’s interior. The seller uses the word “impressive” when describing its condition, although the state of the front seatcovers contradicts this. The dashpad is cracked, but that appears to be the worst of this classic’s problems. The remaining upholstered surfaces are in good condition, the plastic hasn’t succumbed to UV exposure, and the carpet looks surprisingly good for a vehicle of this type and age. This Bronco isn’t found wanting when it comes to creature comforts, featuring air conditioning, power windows, power locks, power front seat lumbar support, a tilt wheel, cruise control, and an updated CD stereo.

Ford’s 1996 Sales Brochure states that the 5.0-liter V8 powering this Bronco delivers 199hp and 270 ft/lbs of torque. A four-speed automatic transmission handles shifting duties, feeding the V8’s power to the road via a dual-range transfer case. The seller’s recent decision to add a 5″ lift kit will help this Bronco tackle some pretty rugged terrain without scraping its underside. Potential buyers can consider this beast a turnkey proposition. The engine has clocked around 40,000 miles since receiving a rebuild, with the seller emphasizing the Bronco’s overall reliability. Those seeking a life of adventure merely need to twist the key and hit the road.

Whether it is the ski fields or other off-road adventures, this 1996 Ford Bronco Eddie Bauer Edition is set to deliver when it matters. Its rust-free status is great news, as is its excellent mechanical health. Addressing its interior shortcomings would improve the appearance enormously, and with eighteen bids submitted, it appears that people see the potential this Bronco offers. A new Bronco would cost you at least $40,000, but you could become this Eddie Bauer’s new owner for considerably less. That is why it deserves more than a passing glance.