Hiding under this cover is one of the stars of the current classic market. This 1967 Ford Bronco has occupied this spot for years but hasn’t suffered unduly from the experience. It is a rock-solid project candidate that deserves a second chance at life. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Gunter K for spotting one of the most promising First Generation Bronco we’ve seen in a while.
The seller provides a comprehensive history of this Bronco, but it is fair to say that it probably contains more information than is required in this article. They are its third owner, with the Bronco spending its earlier days with a father-and-son team in a dry location. The first owner selected attractive Frost Turquoise paint to cover its panels, with the listing suggesting it has never been repaired or restored. The paint shows its age and there is evidence of surface corrosion emerging in a few places. However, what this Ford lacks is genuine penetrating rust issues. The seller describes the floors as solid, while the lower extremities and inner front fender wells look okay. The tailgate and its associated trim are slightly damaged, but the buyer’s shopping list shouldn’t contain replacement steel. The remaining trim is in good condition, and the glass seems free from damage.
It is refreshing to find a Bronco of this vintage with a largely unmolested interior. The “Igloo” cooler, compass, and under-dash temperature gauges are the only obvious additions, while the vehicle retains its original AM radio, and optional back seat, and the shifter is in its rightful place on the column. The Parchment vinyl on the driver’s seat has deteriorated, but the seller disguised this fault with a slipcover to prevent further problems. The rest of the trim is serviceable, allowing the new owner to opt for preservation to retain the vehicle’s survivor status. Otherwise, trim kits to achieve a factory-fresh appearance are readily available and affordable.
Ford initially launched the Bronco with the 170ci six as the only engine, introducing its sweet 289ci V8 in March 1966. There was no automatic transmission option, with the V8’s 200hp and 282 ft/lbs of torque finding its way to the road via a three-speed manual and a dual-range transfer case. Performance was quite impressive by the standards of 1967, with the Bronco capable of cruising on the open road at 70mph or crawling into inhospitable locations. This classic is original and unmolested. It last saw service as a daily driver in 2007, and has sat in storage ever since. However, the V8 starts and runs beautifully, which is the first piece of the puzzle that could return the Bronco to regular use. It will undoubtedly require a service and other work, but hitting the road for some summer fun appears to be a realistic short-term goal.
The seller listed this 1967 Ford Bronco here on Craigslist in Gunnison, Colorado. Their price of $39,000 might set some back on their heels, and it is undeniably a hefty sum for a vehicle requiring restoration. We must put that figure into perspective, because even though values have softened recently, a very tidy Bronco will lighten a buyer’s wallet by at least $50,000. Pristine vehicles push that figure to around $70,000. This 1967 example needs work to reach that level, but its rust-free status means the new owner won’t spend thousands of dollars on rust repairs. It has been on the market for almost four days, but I won’t be surprised if someone hands over the cash for this classic. However, there is one further factor to consider. The lack of significant panel damage, and rust, and the serviceable interior could make the Bronco ideal for preservation as a genuine survivor. The buyer could address any minor mechanical needs and hit the road in a classic that would command respect and turn heads. Is that an idea you might consider?
I would perform a deep cleaning, complete brake job and reupholster this. Then just putt around town on the weekends. But not for $40K, which could fetch you a decent grade classic Mustang.
Colorado is an expensive place to live. I don’t think there’s a state with a more misaligned sense for value. Not sure why that is, and don’t give me that dope crap either. Colorado attracts folks that have burned out their lifestyles in “rich” states like California or Texas, and have moved to Colorado, bringing their inflated values with them. I don’t think Colorado has many native born folks.
So, who is buying 5 figure 1st gen Broncos ( and not Jeeps or Scouts) that are far from what I consider 5 figure worthy? The internet is inundated with folks wondering the same question, and not a lot of answers. Anyone?
Hard to argue with that but our friends in Colorado don’t come under that category. Lots of states in that shape these days. Is that shift lever not for an automatic transmission? Don’t think the asking price is in the reality realm.
3 on tree,the floor shifter is for transfer case
Missed that with only the end of the lever showing. Hadn’t finished my first cup of coffee yet.
My first thought was, “today’s first gen Bronco Barn Finds listing.” But this one is different, it isn’t eaten up with rust. It’s plenty used, but not rusty. So, it might be a straightforward restoration. Or maybe like Cooter says, just clean it up and get it running and enjoy it as-is.
Agreed – with a little elbow grease this would make a nice driver. Maybe at 20-25K but not 39K.
Most “pristine” Bronco’s I see on dealer’s websites are over 6 figures now. It sems that there are two levels of Bronco’s out there. The customized ones with the Coyote, or built 302. And the rust bucket found in grandpa’s back 40. This one is the rare bird that seems like a well cared for original.
now reaching the ‘classic cars’ categories (not in my definition) seek models that comply: long term ownership, few to -0- ‘bolt ons’, few mods (cut fenders, weird muscle power @ driveline cept may B x-fer in these), out of era paint, etc, etc.
Here seems to B one.
I see some ‘unexpecteds’ for a ’67 but it seems genuine. Low rust quotient is 1st on the inspection list (passes muster, time to actually visit). If U can get that w/pic may B save an air fare 1st?
Adam, Can we please stop with the Broncos already?. I am so over looking at first gen Broncos about every other day on BF.. There have to be other vehicles out there that aren’t as stupidly priced and more interesting. These are just getting to be redundant.
You know I really don’t understand all the hoopla on these little ugly mini trucks ? I wouldn’t be caught dead behind the wheel of one of these things let alone pay this kind of money for one. You know if you rich guys stop paying these ridiculous amounts us poor guys might just be able to have a nice car before we die… I mean come on $40,000 not even restored the owner must be off his rocker if he thinks someone gonna pay this amount. What is going on in the world today ???
Not much different than my 1968 Commando Jeep, i gave it to my Son last year, Just don’t see the value at what is asking, of course i’m 81, and a lot of things have gotten out of hand with pricing older vehicles.
Funny how back in 1979 one of the teachers in my high school had one – light blue even – and I thought little of it. Hers had the rear fender with the lower wheel arch which I think looks a little homely. Typical I guess how things of yesteryear have more appeal now
pos!!!
Not in this lifetime.
I was gonna say the Novelty has worn off by crazy prices. But when I had a shot at one 20 years ago running and driving I took it for a ride 302 auto and was not impressed. I kept my 3500$ and didn’t make an offer.
While my old fords are this color and it is awesome.
40k forget the barn find, Go new and drive
The starting price is to close to a new one, now I can’t afford to be caught dead with a computer I can’t fix, but if I did have the money I would rather have Brand new( never had a new car) Bronco needing nothing, even if it means being at the mercy of the dealer(never took a car to anyone) to pay them for computer issues that are most definitely beyond my comprehension and pay grade.