Tasteful Upgrades: 1970 Ford Bronco

Although original and unmolested First Generation Broncos command a premium in the current classic market, those with the right combination of upgrades will sell for a price their original owners could only dream of. That is the story with this 1970 model. The owner added upgrades to improve comfort and safety, but they are all reversible for a new owner seeking originality. It needs a new home, with the seller listing it here on eBay in Southampton, New York. You could own this tidy and practical classic by handing the owner $85,000. However, if that’s a bit rich for you, there is the facility to make an offer.

The seller describes this Ford’s paint color as “Ivory,” and it is a mystery. It doesn’t match any Bronco shade offered in 1970 and could mark the first of many modifications potential buyers should consider. It seems to change slightly from different angles, and a search of Ford’s color charts suggests it could be Meadowlark Yellow. It was part of the Bronco palette in 1968, although it would take an in-person inspection to gain a clearer insight. The overall condition is tidy, with one of the few flaws being a scrape on the lower rear quarter on the driver’s side. The usually rust-prone locations, like the rear quarter panels and door frames, are all solid. The engine bay photos seem to confirm there is no significant rust in the front inner fenders, but an inconsistency on the passenger side warrants investigation. It may be nothing, but with a car of this value, it is best to determine whether there is a developing issue that should be addressed before it gets out of control. Venturing below the beast reveals a frame and floors that are as clean as you could hope to find. The Bronco features a canvas top that provides weather protection when needed but the joy of top-down touring when the weather is right. The steel wheels are wrapped in wider tires, but the seller hasn’t cut the fenders to accommodate the upgrade. The trim looks excellent, and there are no visible glass issues.

Ford offered 1970 Bronco buyers two engines, with the majority passing on the entry-level six for the power and torque of the 302ci V8. It sent 205hp and 300 ft/lbs of torque to the road via a three-speed manual transmission and a dual-range transfer case. Broncos with this drivetrain combination are at home both on and off the road. They will happily cruise at highway speeds, but the power and torque of the V8 allow them to crawl into some hostile environments. It appears this one might be in excellent mechanical health, with some upgrades that should improve safety and reduce driving effort. The seller added power steering, and the braking system features a new Wilwood master cylinder and booster allied to discs on all corners. Rounding out the package is an aluminum radiator that should provide more efficient temperature control than the original unit. Although the engine appears spotless, the engine bay presentation is disappointing. Maybe I’m being harsh, but it doesn’t reach the standard of the rest of the vehicle. The inconsistency in the passenger-side inner fender is visible in this shot, allowing readers to draw their own conclusion. The seller supplies no information about how this Ford runs or drives, so potential buyers must hope they are approachable and willing to answer questions.

The seller’s focus on comfort becomes apparent when we examine the interior photos. Ford didn’t offer leather upholstery as a 1970 Bronco option, but that is what we find gracing the upgraded front bucket seats. They added the same material to the back seat and the rear passenger side panels and door trims, creating a luxurious feel. The skinny original wheel made way for a thicker sports model, while air conditioning, a lidded console, and a modern stereo round out the interior. The overall condition is excellent, with no evidence of wear, abuse, or UV damage. The painted surfaces are spotless, as is the pad. It appears to need nothing and looks like a pleasant place to pass some time.

Although some classics seem destined to be strong performers in the market, others can appear from left field. Cars like the Shelby GT500 and the Corvette “Fuelie” were no-brainers virtually from the moment they rolled out of the factory. However, the First Generation Bronco enjoys a following few would have predicted at the turn of this century. Values continue their unrelenting climb, and the BIN figure on this one is not unprecedented. There is one caveat that enthusiasts should consider. Only six people are watching this listing, suggesting that the Bronco is moving well beyond the reach of the average potential buyer. It makes me wonder whether it will reach a point where sellers pitch their pride and joy to such a limited market that they are forced to slash prices to make a sale. If that happens, we could see values drop within a more affordable range. Do you believe that could happen, or will Bronco prices continue climbing?