After World War II, various small and capable four-wheel-drive vehicles appealed to Americans eager to explore the nation. Interstate highways built in the ’50s put vacationing to distant locations within reach of normal citizens, and these Jeep-like vehicles answered the call for adventure near and far. The sturdy Bronco represented Ford’s entry into this market, and this 1975 Ford Bronco in Alhambra, California hopes to tap into today’s retro-4×4 boom. Just as Ford brings a 21-st Century Bronco to market, this first-generation Bronco comes to auction here on eBay.  At least nine bidders have driven the market value above $8500 on this mostly-solid and complete project roller. Yes, sadly, the original 302 is gone, and someone butchered the hood to slap on a rear-facing Mustang hood scoop, but the nearly complete Ranger interior sweetens the pot. The Ranger Package included upgraded interior, two-tone paint, swing-out spare tire carrier, and more!

The small rear fender flares, without companions in front, suggest rust in the wheel arches. Patch panels are available, a relatively easy fix for a competent welder, or even for a slightly incompetent but patient one. If someone can explain that extra light / reflector beneath the left light pod, please comment below! It’s hard to imagine a vehicle this small needing twin fuel tanks, but if you’re exploring the desert for a weekend, the extra 11.5 gallons adds piece of mind. Thanks to BCBroncos.com for some details.

Do-It-Yourself inner fender liners could easily resemble these:  simple, single-plane bends just like in High School Metal Shop. It’s interesting that Ford preferred this approach to a single stamping, but it makes a nice flat place to hold oil cans, tools, or a cold beverage. Only the original 302 cid (5.0L) V8 is missing. What looks like an automatic transmission, both differentials, transfer case, and driveshafts remain. Without the numbers-matching engine block, it might be fun to build a stroked but otherwise stock-appearing 302 for a more modern power-to-weight ratio.

Here we see the attractive original houndstooth Ranger interior. Picture that gorgeous dark blue paint on the exterior! Is that dealer-installed air-conditioning? Door panels (shown in the listing) come with the sale. The seller describes minimal rust, and undercarriage pictures support this. I’d love to grab a not-too-perfect early Bronco and drive across America as much as possible on dirt roads. What location would you explore in this two-tone Ranger?