The First Generation Ford Bronco is renowned for two things; Disappointing initial sales and the tendency to rust. However, occasionally one will emerge that defies the odds. Such is the case with this 1974 example. It rolled off the line during the badge’s most successful year and is a rock-solid survivor wearing most of its original paint. It has no apparent needs and is ready to find a new home. The seller has listed this Bronco here on eBay in The Lakes, Nevada. Spirited bidding has pushed the price beyond the reserve to $30,300, although with the auction heading to its conclusion, potential buyers may need to act fast to secure this classic.
The First Generation Bronco didn’t meet Ford’s expectations in the showroom. During its twelve production years, sales only exceeded 20,000 on five occasions. However, with 25,824 vehicles finding buyers in 1974, it was the most successful year. Many have succumbed to rust issues or have undergone extensive restorations, but our feature Bronco is an exception to those rules. It is an unmolested survivor wearing what the seller claims is most of its original Candy Apple Red paint. Its condition is impressive, if this is accurate because it retains a pleasing shine and few apparent imperfections. Nobody has cut the panels to accommodate larger wheels and tires, and there is no evidence of the rust that often plagues these classics. The trim shines even more impressively than the paint, while the glass looks flawless. There is no doubt that this gem will command respect at a show or a Cars & Coffee once spectators learn that it is a genuine survivor.
If this Bronco’s exterior makes a positive impression, the interior reinforces its survivor status. There are no aftermarket additions, with the dash retaining its factory radio and the shifter occupying its rightful place on the column. The Parchment vinyl trim is excellent, with slight damage on the outer edge of the driver’s seat and wear on the mat on the same side as the only evidence that the vehicle has seen active service. The back seat looks like it has rarely seen occupants, with the dash and pad appearing spotless. Even the wheel has avoided the typical wear issues, and while it isn’t perfect, this interior will garner as many positive comments as the exterior.
Buyers could still order a 1974 Bronco with a six under the hood, but this vehicle’s original owner selected the range-topping 302ci V8. They teamed this with a three-speed manual transmission, a dual-range transfer case, and power steering. The V8 should produce 137hp and 230 ft/lbs of torque, and although those figures aren’t startling, they allowed the Bronco to perform competently in almost any circumstance. The seller indicates this classic received a service with new oil and filters around four months ago, and they describe its condition as perfect. There are no signs of long-term fluid leaks or other ongoing issues that may cause concern. That suggests it is a turnkey proposition for potential buyers where flying in and driving home could be a viable choice.
First Generation Broncos remain one of the stars of the classic scene and typically attract attention when they hit the market. This 1974 example is no exception, with thirty-six bids already submitted. The action usually intensifies as the auction draws to a close, and I see no reason why that shouldn’t be the case here. Less than a day remains, meaning that if you are interested, you may need to act fast. With the reserve met, that new home is beckoning. Would you like to make it yours?
These were tin can underpowered clunkers when they were introduced. Mainly used for State Park rangers. They were laughably jokes by jeap and power wagon owners. Today a false market narrative created by circus-like auctions have brought these unsafe messes to unheard of prices. Most are being restomodded and completely rebuilt.. why? Stock their awful.
jv – smash palace
Your credibility would be enhanced if you demonstrated sufficient knowledge to spell “Jeep” correctly. As your comment suggests, the first gen Bronco is rather unworthy. I completely disagree. Not to bust on Jeep, or Dodge, I challenge you to show me Jeep cj’s or Power Wagons that fetch the sale prices of first gen Ford Broncos. There’s a reason their prices are what they are; it has a lot to do with desirability.
Nice Bronco. Good to see one which has been preserved for decades. Used in their day by all sorts of folks; my connection to them was via the oilfield. They reflected the technology, engineering, and styling of the day, which has a measure of appeal today. The market has spoken clearly, they are highly desired and collectible.
Good job Adam.
I disagree. I had an all stock 1970 bronco with the micro cab. 302 with a 3 on the tree. Best vehicle I ever owned. I’ve had jeep CJ’s YJ’s and a jeep honcho pick up. The Bronco was more capable, reliable and better driving than any of the 5 jeeps I’ve had. I would have one today over a new one if they were not so expensive. Even with the price today, I’ve been considering one. If I found the right one. I just might have to buy it.
Awesome rig!
Just not sure of its original paint claim. The interior looks stock and not worked over.
I wouldnt mind it sitting in my driveway lol except i just ordered a 2024 Outer banks bronco with sasquatch package which i will have in april or may.
the 2 side by side would make a great pic
Being an east coast native, I don’t believe I’ve ever seen a first-gen Bronco in so solid a condition; not even a “restored” one. I did go look at one for sale once: we opened both doors and the body sagged so badly we couldn’t get them to close. That was the end of that tire-kicking episode.
This one looks sweet, but it’s thousands of miles away and the price is already tens of thousands more than I would be willing to pay. After all, $35-40K will buy you a decent G-Wagon.
Bronco’s were rust buckets, eh? Show me some original ’68 thru ’77 Jeeps or any Dodge truck, driven normally, that weren’t. Jeeps especially, were notorious for flaking into a pile.
This is a scam. I recognize the building in the background. The truck and building used to belong to a friend in Milwaukee, WI. The truck is way too cheap to have cleared the reserve
Should have been Car of the Year instead of the Pinto in 1974. 😂 😂 😂
Any vehicle drove in the rust belt and salted roads for the last 50 + year is a rust bucket.
Ebay auction appears to be gone ??
Likely a scam auction. Same pictures that were used when it sold for $49.5k in 2016 on BAT
i enjoy one. it got me a good income for years. Now as it goes into retirement there will B lots of ‘sleeper’ mods (already has the 4L & 5 speed).
Doubt this is ‘untouched’ as some stuff is ‘off’ to my eye.