Some classics are what I refer to as a “swings and roundabouts” proposition, as demonstrated by this 1979 Ford Bronco Ranger XLT. It has spent its life in a dry climate that has protected its steel but has taken a heavy toll on its original paint. However, the lack of rust and significant panel imperfections makes it a prime candidate for restoration. The seller has listed this turnkey classic here on eBay in Las Vegas, Nevada. Thirty-five bids have pushed the price beyond the reserve to $15,500 with over four days remaining on this auction.

Ford’s Second Generation Bronco delivered the sales results that were lacking from its predecessor. The First Generation’s best year was 1974 when 25,824 vehicles found a home. However, the company shifted 77,917 Broncos in 1978. Ford executives must have turned cartwheels in 1979 as the tally rose to 104,038. There was no doubt that those results cemented the badge in the company’s model range. The first owner ordered this Ranger XLT in Dark Brown Metallic, with the vehicle said to retain its original paint. It has spent its days in California, Arizona, and Nevada, and the harsh sun in those states has heavily baked the paint. It is beyond a simple buff and polish, requiring a cosmetic restoration to recapture its former glory. However, the dry environment has protected its steel from the typical rust problems, and the panels are straight. Therefore, this is a project that the winning bidder could conceivably undertake in a home workshop without needing a grinder or welder. The trim should respond positively to some concerted effort with a high-quality polish, and there are no visible glass issues.

The seller confirms that this Bronco’s seats sport new Tan seatcovers, but the rest of the trim shows evidence of UV exposure. The faux woodgrain is tired, the carpet is marked, and the pad has cracked. However, it is serviceable, and any parts required to lift the appearance are easy to find online. The factory radio has made way for an aftermarket radio/cassette player, but since the dash wasn’t cut during the installation, reversal wouldn’t be difficult. It isn’t heavily equipped by modern standards, although the winning bidder will undoubtedly welcome the air conditioning and cruise control.

Ford didn’t offer 1979 Bronco buyers a six-cylinder engine option, figuring there was nothing as great as a V8. This Ranger’s first owner selected the range-topping 400ci powerplant, teamed with a three-speed automatic transmission, a dual-range transfer case, and power-assisted steering and brakes. Engine power suffered during The Malaise Era, as perfectly demonstrated by this Bronco. The 400 produces 156hp and 277 ft/lbs of torque, with both figures marginally lower than those produced by the same engine in 1978. However, this powerplant’s greatest strength is the low-end delivery, making the Bronco ideal as a tow vehicle or for off-road adventures. Potential bidders can consider this a turnkey classic. The engine runs nicely, and the transmission shifts smoothly. Therefore, flying in and driving home is a viable option once the auction ends.

Finding a project candidate with no significant rust issues is sometimes challenging, but this 1979 Ford Bronco Ranger XLT ticks that box. Its needs are purely cosmetic, allowing the winning bidder to address them at their leisure. It hails from an era when engine power was close to its lowest ebb, although its range-topping V8 should provide performance that will allow it to cope with most obstacles on and off the road. The bidding history demonstrates how desirable this Bronco is, but what would you be prepared to pay to park it in your garage?