The First Generation Ford Bronco is becoming less affordable with each passing day, so finding one where the owner has set a price but is willing to consider offers is rare. That is the case with this 1970 model, which shows promise as a project vehicle. Located in Delta, Colorado, the Bronco is listed for sale here on Craigslist. The owner has set their price at $30,000 but indicates they are open to offers. I have to say a big thank you to Barn Finder Gunter K for spotting this classic for us.
The owner only supplies two complete exterior shots, and only one is clear. However, piecing together what is available paints a relatively optimistic picture of this Acapulco Blue Bronco. The paint is tired, but the panels are short of significant dings or bruises. However, it’s a First Generation Bronco, so the buyer will face some rust repairs. Externally, the problems look pretty isolated. Any issues in the panels could be addressed using patches. The frame seems structurally sound, wearing little beyond the regular surface corrosion. Probably the biggest surprise is the floors. They are prone to significant penetrating rust, although these look surprisingly solid. If there is rust present, it may also be a case of requiring patches rather than total replacement. The A-Pillars look okay, but the front inner fenders have suffered the usual problems necessitating replacement. The good news is that replacements are readily available and affordable. Overall, this could be a straightforward project, although the buyer may elect to undertake a frame-off restoration. That may sound extreme, but it would be the best way to ensure that any rust is consigned to the pages of history. It could also represent their best chance to maximize the return on their investment when you consider the potential value of this classic. Returned to a pristine state, this Bronco would command a value of $50,000 any day of the week. If the right buyer emerged from the woodwork, that figure could climb as high as $80,000.
Lifting the Bronco’s hood reveals its original 302ci V8 that should produce 205hp and 300ft/lbs of torque. The rest of the drivetrain includes a three-speed manual transmission and a dual-range transfer case that provides excellent off-road capabilities. The news for potential buyers appears favorable, with this Ford in sound mechanical health. The seller performed an enormous number of recent maintenance tasks focusing on the brakes and suspension. There are new wheel cylinders on all corners, a new master cylinder, new rubber hoses, and some new brake lines. The suspension received many new bushings, plus KYB shocks on all corners. Throw in a new fuel pump, plugs, plug wires, and other ignition components, and if it isn’t already, this Bronco should be well on the way to being roadworthy and ready for some warm weather enjoyment.
At $30,000, this 1970 Bronco is not a cheap project. However, the price is about what might be expected for a First Generation Bronco with a V8 under the hood. I won’t be surprised if the seller achieves their figure because the Bronco is one of the hottest properties in the current classic market. That trend shows no sign of easing, suggesting that values will continue to rise beyond the market average. If you owned one of these vehicles when they were new, are you surprised by the impressive price increases over the past few years? If you enjoyed the ownership experience, are you tempted to repeat it?
A decade or so ago. This was a $3000 SUV. The Bronco has become the American Porsche 911, as far as rising prices go.
Posted 6 days ago.
Completely ridiculous what these early Broncos are going for, I’ve had 2 and would love another but at these prices if I decide to buy a Bronco I’ll just buy a new one with more technology capabilities and a warranty !!!
I totally agree! I had a 66 and a 72 . Paid $1500 & $1000 . Love to have either now.
5hun’red for mine in ’82 w/a 500$ Fisher sno plow (system). 3 or 4 later (those used to built up mine) to do 38 yrs of woods income. The other’s sold off in late 80s/early 90s @ prices you mention – as rest0mods (KC Hilites, catus smasher, all that era ‘bolt-ons’). Wish I kept more than the nice 1. Needed to sell them others post mid ’90s as the prices have climbed since than (w/the net…auctions, an even more deadly combo – of both). Now deepest pockets claim the hammer. If I sold mine I still couldn’t buy one. Re-dick-U-loss prices.
And this 1 w/some weird non-bronk stuff goin on underneath in the 2nd pic… I say back to oe w/all but the minimum needed mod.
Cool Bronco, but all these collector car prices are just out of control. I can’t imagine this isn’t a bubble, and there’s going to be a lot of people left holding a bag.