We’ve recently seen a few tidy First Generation Broncos cross our desks at Barn Finds, and while this 1974 model isn’t original, its upgraded V8 should offer a welcome performance improvement. Unmolested examples will generally attract the most interest, although the thirty-five bids submitted on this classic suggest it ticks the boxes for more than a few people. The Bronco is listed here on eBay in Lake City, Florida. Bidding currently sits below the reserve at $26,100.

Come on, guys! How hard can it be to wheel this Bronco out of the shed to obtain a few decent photos? That is the most significant shortcoming with this seller’s listing because the supplied images leave us longing for more. The vehicle shows promise with what I believe to be Grabber Blue paint that retains an impressive depth of color and shine. This shade wasn’t part of the 1974 Bronco color palette, suggesting this was either a special order or it had undergone a color change. There is no apparent rust in this classic. However, any vehicle within this price bracket deserves an in-person inspection to confirm that prone areas like the floors and front inner fender wells are structurally sound. Repairing any problems in those areas is straightforward, but it is always better if you can avoid such activities. The trim and glass are in good order, while the non-standard fender flares and wider wheels add a sense of purpose.

Powering this Bronco is the mighty 302ci V8 that sends its power to the road via a three-speed automatic transmission and a dual-range transfer case. The V8 would have produced 137hp and 230 ft/lbs of torque when new, which is a long way short of the 205hp and 300 ft/lbs available in 1971. However, that could be academic because a previous owner performed some welcome upgrades to unleash a few additional ponies. The engine inhales and exhales through a 600cfm 4-barrel carburetor, a set of stainless headers, and a new exhaust. An MSD ignition lights the fire, and a four-core aluminum radiator prevents the engine from going the full Chernobyl. The seller indicates the 302 received a rebuild while in the care of a previous owner. Every brake component has been replaced, as has the power steering box and linkage. Throw in a new fuel tank and sending unit, and that’s a fairly comprehensive list. The Bronco runs and drives perfectly, making it a turnkey proposition for its new owner.

The listing shortcomings aren’t restricted to the exterior images because the interior shots are no better. They confirm that any painted surfaces not wearing the exterior Blue shade are finished in White. This complements the White vinyl upholstered surfaces that seem free from significant problems. The shifter remains in its correct location, although someone has cut a hole in the dash for an aftermarket stereo. The Bronco features ice-cold air conditioning, with the chunky sports wheel and a set of gauges under the dash rounding out the list of additions.

There’s much to like about this 1974 Bronco, but plenty must be taken at face value. The poor photo quality has not dissuaded potential buyers, and the bidding history confirms that. As stated in recent articles on the First Generation variants, values have recently taken a heavy hit. However, the decline seems to have ceased, and prices have remained relatively consistent during the past two months. It is unclear whether that is a sign that they will climb again, but I wouldn’t rule it out. I would typically quote a potential value at this point, but I’ve decided to try something different. It will be fascinating to gauge whether you think the tide has turned and, if so, will values again soar to their former stratospheric heights. So, over to you.