Often, the biggest challenge an enthusiast faces with the classic ownership experience is selecting the most appropriate candidate to park in their garage. Choices are often driven by pure emotion, but practicality must form part of the decision process. A person may yearn to own a First Generation Mustang, but that would be incompatible with their needs if they also wish to delve deep into the wilderness. However, this 1970 Bronco might offer a sensible compromise. Its V8 engine and other upgrades would provide excellent performance on the open road, but its dual-range transfer case and limited-slip rear end should allow it to climb every mountain and “Ford” every stream. It is set to find a new home, with the seller listing the Bronco here on eBay in Louisville, Kentucky. Bidding has raced beyond the reserve to $33,100, with time remaining for interested parties to join the bidding war.

This Bronco is a fascinating creature because a brief glance suggests it is a largely unmolested survivor. The seller admits it received a repaint in its original Chrome Yellow, and its presentation is first-rate as a result. The exterior shines beautifully, while the panels are as straight as an arrow. The seller supplies no underside shots, but there are no signs of the rust issues that typically plague these classics. The lower extremities and the area around the lower edge of the top are clean, as are the front inner fenders. The overall impression is positive, and it is nice to find that nobody has cut the fenders to accommodate larger wheels and tires. The Bronco rolls on its original steel wheels with their factory hubcaps and chunky Dayton Timberline A/T tires to enhance its off-road ability. The remaining trim is immaculate, and the glass looks flawless. First impressions are that this is a nicely restored and original First Generation Bronco. However, delving below the surface reveals a few changes and upgrades.

Opening the Bronco’s doors reveals an interior housing most of the changes made by the seller to ensure the driving experience is more comfortable and civilized. The wood-rimmed wheel would feel pleasant in the driver’s hand and is mounted on top of a tilt column. A floor-mounted James Duff shifter would improve ratio selection, while a more modern Sony Double-DIN stereo provides entertainment on the road. The final piece of the puzzle is a robust roll cage to provide protection if the new owner confuses their ambitions with their ability and manages to land the Bronco shiny side down. Otherwise, the trim and upholstery are virtually as they would have been when this classic rolled off the line. The Parchment vinyl is free from physical damage, and the mats have no wear. The rear passenger area and tailgate benefit from custom vinyl that would reduce noise and also looks pretty smart. The pad is excellent, and the paint looks spotless. A purist might elect to reverse the changes mentioned, but those more focused on comfort than originality will probably welcome the upgrades. For me, there is one fascinating omission. I expected to see air conditioning inside this classic, especially considering the other upgrades. Fitting an aftermarket system wouldn’t be challenging or expensive, and I wouldn’t be surprised if that finds its way onto the new owner’s Wish List.

Forging a path into the wilderness shouldn’t present many challenges for this Bronco. Its engine bay houses a 302ci V8, producing 205hp and 300 ft/lbs of torque from the factory. This feeds to the road via a three-speed manual transmission and a dual-range transfer case. Power assistance for the steering and brakes should make life easier in all circumstances. Whether this Bronco is numbers-matching or the engine is unmodified is unclear. The seller uses the word “potent” in their description, suggesting upgrades might be hiding below the surface. The Wilwood master cylinder is a later addition, indicating that more braking system improvements might be hidden from sight. The Bronco is in excellent mechanical health and is begging to hit the road with a new owner behind the wheel.

I was initially surprised that this 1970 Ford Bronco had only received sixteen bids because the action is typically frantic whenever a solid First Generation example hits the market. However, those bids were all made within the first day, and with under four days remaining, there is every chance that things will intensify. Speculating on a sale price is challenging due to the modifications, but with the reserve met, a new home is guaranteed to be mere days away. What would you do if you were the winning bidder? Would you reverse the changes mentioned, or would you drive and appreciate this classic in its current form?