The second-generation Ford Bronco remains a bit of a sleeper in the collector vehicle marketplace. In the case of a model with multiple generations, the later vehicles are generally more affordable, but for how long? The earliest Broncos are quite pricey to buy in almost any condition these days, so a later model like this driver-quality example here on eBay is worth a closer look. Bidding sits at $7,350 with no reserve.
We don’t have a ton of information to go on in terms of the listing details, but the Bronco presents as being fairly honest and not heavily modified. That’s probably the biggest obstacle for anyone seeking a clean project-grade example these days: if you want an affordable model, you’re going to have to live with some shortcomings, and oftentimes, those appear in the form of poorly-executed modifications. While this Bronco will absolutely have some needs, it appears you’re at least starting with one that’s pretty close to stock.
The original upholstery is in so-so condition, but I’m just glad to see it’s still present in any form. The period-correct vibes are strong inside the cabin, and hopefully the next owner can find a way to reupholster the front buckets without losing that patina that allows the front and rear seats to match. Black on red is a terrific combination in almost every circumstance, so this Bronco will look quite sharp once the next owner has a chance to treat the carpets and remove some of the grime from within.
The stance on this Bronco is perfect, with upsized tires on a very era-appropriate wheel design. Personally, I would paint these white to give it the perfect “look” for a square-body from this era. The passenger door edge has rust, and the seller confirms there are additional areas of corrosion on the hood, tailgate, and driver’s door. Hopefully, this Bronco is a long-term resident of the Tampa, Florida area and the rust concerns don’t extend to the floors. With no reserve, someone’s going home with a potential bargain of a Bronco.
Lots ‘o rust. These are going up in value, for sure. But I’d do the sane thing, and buy the best one you can find.
I would definitely like to have a 79 in even this good shape. I’ve owned a 79 custom with a 4 1/2 ” lift but mostly stock otherwise. It was an absolute beast.
Work finds me in Tampa this weekend. I reached out to the seller and if I hear back I’ll do a PPI in the morning and bid accordingly. As Jerry said, this is actually reasonable condition for a 79, especially in FL. Worth a bid right now. I’m looking for a new project, particularly a winter snow 4×4 that’s large enough to overnight in this ski season.
I don’t recall the sliding window on the broncos of my youth, but maybe they were an option? My buddy’s dad bought one new in 78 and used his for hunting and towing their travel trailer. I’ve got a soft spot for these, having spent countless hours in the Poconos with that truck.
I would like a funkier 70s trim, or just the brown and tan that was common, but the black is growing on me. Lots of parts available too. I’m sure the 38k mileage in the ad doesn’t reflect once around the clock, we will see what happens.
Yes, the sliding windows in the cap were a factory option.
If that right door rust is as bad as it gets this will be a good buy. Underside looks good and it came with factory air. Replace the compressor and dryer and you can overcome the black paint, which does look pretty good on on it.
Great to see the captains chairs and the sliding rear windows. Both desirable options!
Did not hear back from the seller, but that may have been my fault as I wound up getting busy with work and wasn’t really checking. So, I never made a bid and it went for $7850. Probably a good deal for both buyer and seller. Hope it gets cleaned up and used as a proper 4×4.
I’ll keep looking. Would much rather have something along these lines for a ski vehicle than a 2007 Trailblazer.
Years ago, I owned the next generation Bronco, a 1984. When I called on the ad to buy it and asked the owner if it had rust, he told me it had “Bronchitis”. Sure enough the rear tailgate was rusted badly, but it turned into a decent truck at the time.
sliders 1 yr only (‘ ‘9) some even w/a ‘vent wing’.
Love this 1 w/a 400M (largest ‘square motor’).
My fav looking vehicle is the 6th gen F-series (more details to it tho) and
the 2nd gen bronk falls in there too.
But, rather have a
F-250 4WD short box step side, 3.9 efi, 4 speed w/2 18 in. race stripes
to haul my 1st gen bronk.
8^ )