Rust-Free Project: 1979 Ford Bronco 400 4-Speed

Project candidates from dry locations are typically viewed favorably by potential buyers. Rust issues are often minor, reducing some of the stress and hard work in a build. This 1979 Ford Bronco ticks that box. Its exterior is tired and baked, but this diamond in the rough is rock-solid. The range-topping V8 under the hood adds to its appeal. The seller has listed this beauty here on eBay in Las Vegas, Nevada. Bidding sits below the reserve at $9,100, but there’s still time for interested parties to throw their hats into the ring.

Ford released the Second Generation Bronco for the 1978 model year. Although it only remained on sale in 1978 and 1979, its production tally exceeded the combined figure for its predecessor’s eight best years. To say that the buying public embraced the latest offering is probably an understatement. This 1979 Bronco looks tired, with its Dark Brown Metallic paint heavily baked. This is unsurprising, as the seller indicates that it has spent most of its life in Arizona. That state’s climate might be hard on paint and plastic, but its ability to preserve classic steel is legendary. The Bronco’s exterior is clean, and the underside shots reveal the dry surface corrosion that is a hallmark of the region. There is no penetrating rust, but treating the existing corrosion to prevent deterioration would be wise. The removable top should respond well to some TLC, the glass is clear, and most of the trim should present acceptably following a healthy dose of polish.

As already mentioned, the Arizona sun can exact a high toll on plastic, and this Bronco’s interior demonstrates that quite graphically. The seller recently replaced the carpet, but that’s the tip of the iceberg. The Parchment seatcovers have waved the white flag, the dashpad sports multiple cracks, the door trims look brittle, and the kick panels are crumbling. The buyer’s shopping list will be long and will include finding something to fill the hole where the factory radio once resided. The first owner ordered this Bronco with air conditioning, but the lack of a drive belt suggests the system requires work to blow cold once again.

Ford offered 1979 Bronco buyers a choice of two V8s to power their new purchase. There was little to separate the power and torque figures of the 351M and the range-topping 400. Interestingly, while the 351M placed an additional two horsepower at the driver’s disposal, the 400 delivered an extra 15 ft/lbs of torque. This Bronco features the 400, teamed with a dual-range transfer case, a four-speed manual transmission, power steering, and power brakes. The seller recently replaced the carburetor, fuel pump, water pump, brake master cylinder, and battery. They say that the motor is strong, and the transmission shifts smoothly. It appears that potential buyers can consider this beauty a turnkey proposition.

Ford’s Second Generation Bronco established the badge in the company’s model range. It achieved sales tallies during its two-year production run that repaid Ford’s faith, with 104,038 buyers taking one home in 1979. This Bronco emerged that year and carries the hallmarks of a promising project candidate. Although the bidding has been modest, the Watch List figure suggests it has generated respectable interest. Therefore, I believe that the action will intensify during the final hours. Will you join the party by making a play for this Bronco? I wish you luck if you do.