We’re no strangers to First Generation Ford Broncos at Barn Finds, and the condition of the vehicles we feature varies widely. Some are sad and sorry sights, while others are meticulously restored vehicles. This 1976 model treads a middle ground. It features custom touches, but it is a rock-solid, turnkey proposition that appears to need nothing. The seller’s decision to list it for auction with No Reserve adds to its attraction. It is worth a close look if your search for a Bronco hasn’t produced the desired results.

Some classics create barely a ripple when they hit the market, while others generate significant interest due to their inherent desirability. The First Generation Bronco fits within the latter category, which I find interesting. I’m not belittling the Bronco, but by 1976, the styling looked quite dated compared to vehicles like the K5 Blazer. However, these Broncos strike a chord with buyers, and recent sales results demonstrate that. This 1976 model is a dry-climate classic, making its rust-free status welcome but unsurprising. The traditionally vulnerable areas like the lower extremities and front inner fender wells are clean, and the panels are as straight as an arrow. The seller indicates it received a nut-and-bolt refurbishment, but not when this happened. Its Wimbledon White paint holds an excellent shine, with no evidence of significant imperfections. The trim and glass are faultless, adding to the Bronco’s positive first impression. It can’t be classified as a survivor because there are changes and updates to improve its versatility. The most obvious are the fender flares and larger wheels and tires. The flares will prevent paint damage from errant stones, although the wheels and tires are a mystery. The impression conveyed by the seller is that they aren’t included in the sale, which seems strange considering they don’t mention an alternative. They appear approachable, and posing the question would be worthwhile. The heavy-duty front bumper holds a winch that will be welcome if the new owner mistakes ambitions with this classic’s off-road capabilities.

Powering this Bronco is Ford’s venerable 302ci V8, which sends its power to Planet Earth via a three-speed automatic transmission and a dual-range transfer case. Power assistance for the steering and brakes should make maneuvering in tight locations a piece of cake. The V8 originally produced 125hp and 220 ft/lbs of torque in its prime, but I suspect both figures might be higher. The engine inhales through an upgraded carburetor and intake, with spent gases exiting via headers. Improving breathing is the easiest and cheapest way to liberate extra ponies, and I expect nothing less from this classic. Potential buyers can consider it a turnkey proposition that runs and drives exceptionally well. Flying in and driving home is a realistic option…once the question of wheels and tires has been addressed!

The theme of spotless presentation continues inside this Bronco, with nothing escaping the builder’s attention during the refurbishment. Items like the Parchment vinyl trim, painted surfaces, carpet, and dashpad are as immaculate as you would rightly expect. However, the finer details set this Bronco apart. Items like the gauge bezel and lenses were refreshed in a bid for perfection, and the overall presentation justified the effort. This interior would undoubtedly garner favorable comments wherever the new owner ventures in this classic. A couple of modifications will improve comfort and safety, including the robust roll bar, sports wheel, and the Sony CD player.

First Generation Broncos are one of the stars of the classic market, and good examples typically achieve sale prices far beyond what their first owners would have envisaged. The seller listed this ’76 Bronco here on eBay in Granada Hills, California. Bidding has raced to $15,100 in the No Reserve auction, meaning it is only a few days away from finding a new home. Are you tempted to make it yours?