The First Generation Bronco is one of the heroes of the current classic market, with even rough examples generating plenty of interest when they hit the market. This 1974 model proves that point graphically. It is a sad and sorry sight, missing its engine and transmission. However, it has attracted fourteen bids since the seller listed the Bronco here on eBay in Concord, Virginia. The action hasn’t resulted in a high price, with this classic sitting below the reserve at $1,100.
Finding a First Generation Bronco that has been left to fend for itself and exposed to the elements is seldom good. Rust is the mortal enemy of these classics, and it appears this Hot Ginger Metallic example is no exception. The lower rear quarter panels feature some pretty rough Bondo that is falling out, and some lower surfaces have been consumed by tin worm. However, the odd angle of the driver’s door raises questions about the A-Pillar. These are prone to problems, which might be the case here. Surprisingly, the area between the top and the main body structure shows no issues. The lack of information in the listing leaves us in the dark about the state of the floors, frame, and inner front fenders. Otherwise, most of the trim is damaged or missing, and several pieces of glass are broken or cloudy.
This Bronco’s original owner ordered it powered by the 302ci V8, producing 137hp and 230 ft/lbs of torque. They teamed that engine with a three-speed automatic transmission and a dual-range transfer case. That combination would have guaranteed excellent off-road abilities from a vehicle that would also have coped admirably with open-road touring. Sadly, the engine and transmission are long gone, although the rest of the mechanical components appear intact. That would make the Bronco a blank canvas for anyone brave enough to tackle this as a restoration project. It looks like the interior might be missing the front seats, and the remaining trim will have been exposed to the elements through the broken and missing glass. That will compromise what is salvageable, especially electrical items and gauges. Regardless of whether potential buyers view this Bronco as a project or parts source, the list of reusable components is guaranteed to be short.
Regular readers know I’m an optimist and have long claimed that virtually no classic is beyond salvation. All it requires is a dedicated enthusiast with a thick enough wallet. However, the biggest question which must be faced in such circumstances is whether the project is financially viable. A high-end restoration of this vehicle could net the owner a value above $70,000, although I have seen some with custom touches to the body and drivetrain sell for higher figures. Everything required to return this Bronco to a rust-free and mechanically complete state is available, but my instincts tell me that the project cost will far exceed the potential value. Therefore, its fate probably rests as a donor. Do you agree, or will this 1974 Bronco eventually find its way back onto our roads?
It should go to the scrap yard.
Smart seller, list it for auction with a low opening and no reserve, make the buyer responsible for picking it up. They will get it out of your hair while paying you in the process. Even in this state of disrepair it’s almost guaranteed to have lots of small parts which are hard to find and not reproduced. It’s ultimate destination is likely to be the crusher but has some usefulness prior.
Steve R
Nice Mopar alternative 😏
Title plus vin and re-body bronco with yote engine…
These bring gold but the sweat equity plus labor will have to be love ❤️
I’d love to have the front axle. Lots of other little bits to sell but not worth a whole lot. Someone might want the frame/title if the seller has it – that’s actually the most valuable piece of it.
Do a brand new body 20k plus.
https://www.dennis-carpenter.com/ford-bronco-bodies
I’d rather possibly have the tractor I think it’s a Ferguson but can’t tell for sure
The top alone might be worth $2k.
Project or Parts?
Crusher material.
I think this Bronco has seen its last rodeo. There are a lot of good parts on it, but it would cost a lot to restore it. I vote for it to be a parts donor.
No offense to you Bronco people, but I just don’t understand why these piles of crap sell for $100,000 plus done. IMO they were styled by a 9 year old with colored pencils. Absolutely no curves or styling as was so prevalent in the mid 60s of auto design. This guy is smart. He will make a killing and then it will be built with all new metal, a Coyote engine and go to an auction, where some rich dude will pay more than $100,000, put it in his garage and flip it a year later. Just a waste of money.
This was designed by the same guy who gave us the first-gen Mustang…
McKinley Thompson Jr.!
I completely disagree! These are great looking trucks… That is exactly why they are SO popular… Certainly not because they are nice to drive… Because in that regard, they are TERRIBLE!
And I’ll disagree because I like their looks and I love to drive mine! 382,000 miles and still going strong. I’ve made a few mods to make it a nicer driver though….
This one definitely is a blank. Not so sure about the canvas.
Now THIS is what I’ve been talking about! THIS is a proper example of an east-coast first-gen Bronco. Rusted, broken, and stripped and any value at least 15 years ago.
And because there is always somebody who wants these, no matter how bad their condition, the bid is already up at $1500 and the reserve has been met.
$50 says it tops $3K.
What a pile of garbage
The drive train is still there. You can buy a new tub to put on the chassis. It’s worth something to someone with the money and time to invest. They are getting up to six figures currently for these. Makes it worth the time for some
“…parts which are hard to find and not reproduced….”
nope. Nota standard rest0. EVERY single item is available. U
might hafta buy it ina expenzive kit tho. Likea XK everything is
available. Make no mistake (thinkin all cars are as easy to rest0,
rest0mod, even mod) -so basic, hasa frame, lotsa room (esp w/the i6).
Nope, there’s a reason we got these (pre ‘90s as the price is silly now) &
today its pretty obvious. So obvious they R now desirable (by more people).