OK, I know we’re hitting the Ford Bronco theme a bit hard lately. And I also know some readers would prefer to not see any more Bronco coverage. But I couldn’t help myself with this subject – there’s no way to escape the outsized price tag – what is up with these Bronco values? How much you ask? This 1975 example, domiciled in Ventura, California, is available, here on Hemmings for $100,000 (gulp!). Thanks to Boot for this outrageous tip!
I won’t recount the Bronco story as it was covered, somewhat, a few days ago with this 1973 example. But what we immediately know here is that this Bronco is a Bill Stroppe inspired “Baja” example, one of either 450 or 650 produced, depending upon whose numbers you use. According to Bronco Corral, the Baja Bronco was offered between 1971 and 1975 and is primarily identified by its unique paint scheme. Ford painted the Baja Bronco red, added extra cooling capability and heavy-duty suspension before shipping them off to Stroppe’s Long Beach, CA shop where he added rear flares, front cut fender openings, different tires/wheels, dual shock absorbers, a roll bar, rubberized steering wheel, front bumper braces, a trailer hitch, and a Baja Bronco tire cover and fender decals. Additionally, Stroppe offered other aftermarket components from his accessories catalog that could be purchased and added. OK, so this Baja Bronco is a bit special – the question is whether it’s $100 large of special.
This example looks fine though it’s shorn of its “Baja Bronco By Stroppe” spare tire cover. The finish and body look fine and the seller claims that it’s in original condition though the roof and hood stripe have been repainted. He adds that the paint is excellent and rust has never been an issue. He concludes by stating that only 30 “Baja” versions were produced in its final year of 1975.
The interior is bright and clean and looks to have been well cared for. The upholstery, carpet, dash, and instrument panel show as new and don’t look like they have been involved in any off-road or Baja 500 hi-jinx. It’s a utilitarian environment though finished off more nicely than that found in earlier model years. The seller photographically displays portions of the floors, under the carpet, and they appear to be corrosion-free and solid. The only non-original Bronco component looks to be the radio.
All Baja Broncos were equipped with a 125 net HP, 302 CI V8 engine, and generally, an automatic transmission though, supposedly, some were endowed with a manual gearbox – not in this case, however. The seller mentions that he has performed brake repair work on this Bronco but makes no reference to its operating capabilities.
OK, I sort of get it but I’m still hung up on $100K for a first-gen Bronco, Bill Stroppe’s involvement or not. Any chance that this example is not what it’s billed out to be? Well, anything is possible and Bronco Coral states, “Telling an original from a fake could be difficult since Stroppe Motorsports claims they no longer have the invoices of the trucks they built“. But then there is no reason to suspect that there is an issue with this example’s authenticity. So, what do you think, have Bronco values have run amuck or it’s justifiable in the case of this special 1975 “Baja” Bronco?
I don’t follow Bronco values closely, other than realizing they are high (which we all know). So, if this was a “normal” Bronco in equivalent condition, what would it be worth? Then add “some” money for the exclusivity of the Stroppe conversion. But given the generally routine mods which were done, I don’t think “some” would be a big number. So I’m with you Jim, $100k ?? ??
I think it’s a good looking rig but not 100K good looking. I’m wondering if the short wheel base classic SUV is in a bubble that will burst someday. I have driven these and believe me to drive one on the road gets old quick. Friends who ride in my F350 hate it but I accept the ride as a trade off for its hauling ability of which it gets used often. I do get tired of driving it and prefer a sedan. When these are kept in mint condition they never go off-road. So what’s the point of ownership if they never get used for their intended purpose.
This is a good looking rig, but at the asking price I couldn’t afford the chair and beer to sit down and just look at it. Nice but nuts.
These are so cool, have been tracking them for years. Love to have one but..
Would you 4wheel it and would you park it outside overnite ? Probably not, and there lies the dilemma. As for the crazy price, just wait 3 years and then price it. This will probably end up in a “collection” never to be driven again, so sad.
I would rather get the 1971 Plymouth ‘Cuda 340 Convertible at that price any day.
To Jim’s question, yes, this is an original ’75 Baja but it’s missing a lot of the unique Baja parts that make them special. It’s one of the ’75s that didn’t get many parts added to them as Stroppe was winding down operations. It’s been for sale for quite awhile now.
Wasn’t Bill Stroppe also part of the Steve McQueen Baja 1000 racing team? Or the James Garner Baja 1000 racing team? Or both?
No on the Steve McQueen team. James Garner drove a Stroppe Bronco (with Garner’s team markings on it) during the ’68 season.
You’re forgiven for beating a dead horse (pun intended). One can not be blamed for posting cars with laughable prices…and this one certainly fits the bill!
Smoking some wacky weed to be sure
Both the early Broncos and VW busses were not know for their abilities to withstand rust but both now seem to be outrageously priced. I haven’t necessarily followed Bill’s career but the price seems a little steep. I have a ’68 Nova with a set of Mickey Thompsons on the back, I did meet Mickey once at an airport, maybe I can get $60k.
“…there is no reason to suspect that there is an issue with this example’s authenticity….’
never the case in my mind. There is so much of this going on I’d want to B certain. For the Baja, Balloon Chaser, Denver, Navy & other specialties (up to double price) I’d assume the opposite 1st. As much as a jag motor of off sz in an XKE – these R now in that realm as well. I C “stuff” in the pic I question – but I am no expert…
“…what’s the point of ownership…” these usually go to the guy w/another. They wrench on the other/drive it and preserve this’un. Yup, time to say these have now been included in the concourse category (5 – 15 yrs ago depending on who U ask)…
There’s a similar ‘bubble’ happening in UK, with short-wheelbase Land Rovers; from the earliest Series models to all Tdi’s that are pre-BMW Td5 & Ford-Puma 90’s..!
Prices have gone silly, but because there are people ready to pay for something that can be built-up, or built-on to their own taste, then there IS a ready market.
Unfortunately, it is also fuelled by thefts, where doors & accessories command quick money on the second-hand market..
Even though early Broncos are desirable as well as better looking than anything in its class for sale that is what would be considered up to date modern ( with all of the dodads that can go wrong in the middle of nowhere ) to this old man the price is to high unless the selling individual can furnish proof of this vehicles originality !!