It happens. Sometimes a restoration project will stall before it can get off the ground. That is the case with this 1968 Ford Bronco. The owner purchased the vehicle in 2012, and after 8-years of inactivity, he has decided to part with it. These remain an incredibly popular classic, with good examples commanding some impressive prices. If you fancy the idea of owning a classic off-roader, then you will find the Bronco located in North Little Rock, Arkansas, and listed for sale here on eBay. If this is a vehicle that appeals to you, then you are not alone. It has received some spirited bidding, which has pushed the price along to $10,000. The reserve has been met, so this might be a project that will get off the ground fairly soon.

It would appear that the Bronco has lived quite a colorful life. There is evidence that it has received at least one color change since it rolled off the production line finished in Rangoon Red. It also appears as though some of the bolt-on panels like the doors and the front fenders have been replaced at some point. One positive with this vehicle is that it has never been cut to fit larger wheels and tires. This was a common occurrence, and while reversing these changes is neither difficult nor expensive, it adds to the workload of any restoration. The Bronco’s body has been afflicted with all of the rust that is typical with these classics. This includes rust in the rockers, the floors, and the inner fenders. Because this is an issue that is common, replacement steel is readily available and is surprisingly affordable. For example, a full front floor sells for around $650, while front inner fenders cost about $120 each. Add a pair of rockers for $90 each, and you would be well on the way to having a body with no rust issues. The front bumper is damaged, while the rear is missing entirely. Replacement painted bumpers sell for $100 each, or for an additional $50 each, you can score yourself some shiny chrome. All of the glass is present, and it appears to be in good condition.

March of 1966 saw the introduction of a V8 into the Bronco range, this being the 289ci version. That is what we find lurking under the hood of this 1968 classic. There was no optional transmission offered at this point, so the vehicle comes equipped with a 3-speed manual. This engine produced 200hp, but it was the 288 ft/lbs of torque that was a more important attribute. Torque delivery was linear across the entire rev-range, making the Bronco capable of tackling some extremely tough terrain effortlessly. The owner states that the Bronco runs and drives and that the 4-wheel-drive system works as it should. I think that the thing that strikes me when I look at the engine bay is the general level of cleanliness. There are no signs of any long-term fluid leaks and no signs of the sort of coolant stains that may indicate past or current overheating issues.

The interior of the Bronco has been partially dismantled, but it does appear to be complete. In keeping with the rest of the vehicle, it is going to require a full restoration. When it comes to upholstery, it is pretty easy to sum up what this vehicle needs in a single word: Everything. This is one of those cases where a trim kit will come into its own. These are readily available in all of the correct factory colors and materials. The cost will depend on a few factors, including whether the owner would prefer rubber mats or carpets on the floors. With this in mind, kits tend to range between around $1,100 and $1,400.

The popularity of the 1968 Ford Bronco is best demonstrated by the prices that they are capable of achieving in the market today. If you were to wander out today with $40,000 in your pocket looking for a clean ’68 Wagon, then you would probably come home feeling pretty disappointed. They are out there, but finding them is a challenge. Put another $5,000 in your pocket, and you will probably have more luck. From there, prices climb to the point where $60,000 or more is not out of the question. This Bronco seems to be an honest classic that represents a fairly straightforward restoration project. Combine that factor with the undeniable popularity, and that is why the bidding has been so intense.