Original Survivor: 1966 Ford Bronco

Some classics genuinely surprise me, and such is the case with this 1966 Ford Bronco. It is a dry-climate survivor that hasn’t been cut or modified. It lacks the rust issues that are often a hallmark of First Generation Broncos, and the seller has set their auction to open at what many would consider a moderate level for a vehicle of this caliber. However, there has been no action at the time of writing. Why not take a close look to decide whether you want to be the one to get the ball rolling?

Buyers welcomed the First Generation Bronco with open arms upon its 1966 release, with 23,776 people giving one a home during the first year. However, the total would plunge in the subsequent years, not exceeding the initial figure until 1974. The original owner ordered this 1966 model in Acapulco Blue, and its presentation is quite impressive. The paint retains a healthy shine and hasn’t been baked by the sun. The panels are straight, but that is only the first piece of a long list of good news for potential buyers. It is refreshing to see that nobody has cut the body to accommodate larger wheels and tires, with this Bronco retaining its original steelies and hubcaps. More significantly, it has spent its days in a dry climate. That means that there is no evidence of the rust that is so often seen in these classics. The lower body extremities are clean, the engine bay shots reveal no front inner fender issues, and the underside shots show solid floors and a structurally sound frame. The trim looks exceptional for its age, and the glass is crystal clear.

Ford adopted a “one size fits all” approach to mechanical specifications upon the Bronco’s release. A V8 would become available during 1966, but early vehicles all featured a 170ci six, a three-speed manual transmission, and a dual-range transfer case. The six produced a respectable 105hp and 158 ft/lbs of torque, and although it wasn’t a bitumen burner, the Bronco offered acceptable performance in most circumstances. This Bronco retains what I believe to be its numbers-matching drivetrain. Somebody upgraded the air cleaner and radiator, but it appears to be otherwise unmolested. It runs and drives exceptionally well, and is a turnkey proposition for the winning bidder.

Many Bronco owners didn’t restrict changes to the exterior, with the interior often featuring major modifications. This classic is surprisingly original, with aftermarket additions seemingly restricted to a rollbar and spray-on bedliner to protect the floors. Otherwise, its Parchment trim is intact and free from rips, and the dash houses the factory AM radio. Even the shifter is in its rightful place because many First Generation Bronco owners converted the vehicles to floor shift. It isn’t perfect, but this interior will meet almost universal approval due to its condition as a survivor-grade classic.

The seller listed this 1966 Ford Bronco here on eBay in Long Beach, California. They set their auction to open at $25,000, also providing a BIN figure of $44,000. Surprisingly, there have been no bids at this point, although there are a couple of factors to consider. The first is that there is plenty of time remaining, so there could be potential buyers who are unwilling to show their hands this early. The listing has been viewed over 250 times in the past day, and twenty-nine people have placed the Bronco on their “Watch List.” Therefore, things could change at any moment. Would you move now, or wait to see how the situation develops?