We’ve seen a significant number of First Generation Ford Broncos over the past decade at Barn Finds, with many of them riddled with rust, heavily modified, or both. That makes this 1977 example feel like a breath of fresh air. It is as it left the factory, and its ownership history means it has avoided the corrosion issues that often plague these classics. Its most pressing need is a new home, with the seller listing it here on eBay in Liberty Lake, Washington. Bidding sits below the reserve at $65,600, with time remaining for interested parties to make a play for his survivor.
With the unfortunate reputation First Generation Broncos enjoy for dissolving like a soluble Aspirin, finding one that has been garage-kept its entire life is an excellent starting point for someone searching for one of these classics. That is the story behind this 1977 model, and the seller states it has virtually no rust. They don’t award it rust-free status, suggesting issues may be hiding below the surface. The typical external spots, like the rockers, door corners, lower rear quarter panels, and the hood, are all clean. It would be worth clarifying where any problems might be because while replacement steel is cheap, replacing some items can be labor-intensive. Its original Vista Orange and Wimbledon White paint combination is in excellent condition for a vehicle of this type and age, with only a few minor chips and marks. The panels are straight, and the gaps are consistent. Nobody has cut the fenders to accommodate larger wheels and tires, with this Bronco rolling on its original steelies and spotless hubcaps. The remaining trim is equally impressive, while the glass appears flawless.
The Bronco’s condition remains consistent across the entire vehicle, with its interior presenting surprisingly well for a vehicle of this type and age. The vinyl and cloth upholstered surfaces are slightly discolored, and the seats show some minor stretching, but if considered purely as a survivor-grade vehicle, it would cause its new owner no shame. It isn’t damaged or abused, and the painted surfaces are virtually perfect. The gauge cluster features crisp markings and a clear lens, while the shifter occupies its rightful place on the column. My instincts tell me the carpet is a later addition, although I am happy to be corrected if I’m wrong on that score.
Powering this Bronco is Ford’s 302ci V8, with the remaining mechanical components including a three-speed automatic transmission, a dual-range transfer case, and power assistance for the steering and brakes. The V8 should produce 133hp and 246 ft/lbs of torque, allowing the Bronco to perform admirably in most circumstances. The low-end torque would make traversing hostile terrain effortlessly, while cruising at freeway speeds shouldn’t cause mechanical stress. The seller replaced the fuel tank; otherwise, this Bronco is a numbers-matching survivor with no modifications. It runs and drives perfectly, and the seller includes items like the Owner’s Manual with the vehicle.
It seems almost inevitable that some classics won’t simply obtain legendary status but could retain it seemingly forever. Others will experience a fleeting moment of glory before the bubble bursts, and they fade into obscurity. The challenge is knowing which vehicles will fall into these categories. Many people have speculated by putting their money where their mouth is, and the results have been mixed. Some look like heroes, while others have been left red-faced. The ongoing popularity of the First Generation Bronco would have seemed unthinkable at the dawn of the new century, but they remain consistent performers. Will that trend continue? That is impossible to know, but the signs are encouraging. Would you willingly take a chance, or is something more affordable in your sights?
$65,600 😱😳😬🤯
I just don’t get the prices of these tin cans or VW bus’.
I’m not sure if $165 k will do it .
This is a last year ,great options ,original owner ,and paint ,survivor in one of the best colors .Surely in the conversation for ” the best one left ” .There is always a list of buyers who are willing to pay for this.
Even with “great options” these are the most basic vehicles. They ride like a tank, very uncomfortable and barely keep up with modern traffic.
$65k HhhhaaAa I don’t believe “original paint” had this glow to it. Maybe redone in original color but looks like the wrong kind of paint
Eighteen bids now at $68,800, and still below reserve. If you look at the bid history there seems to be one person who wants it bad. I don’t want it but even if I did I wouldn’t bid as I suspect that this person would not hesitate to compete in a bidding war. That’s a war where no one wins except the seller. I’m always surprised what someone will pay for one of these, as I remember when they were new the dealers around here had to discount them greatly to get rid of them.
Seems like they weren’t hot until the new ones came out. I pulled an old toy version of this Bronco out of the dump and sold it for $35. Totally amazing to me.
All you need to do is drive a vintage convertible SUV for one afternoon .You will get it ( or never will ) .I have 2 of these in my multi brand collection of musclecars ,sportscars and trucks .There is NOTHING more fun to drive than our 72 Blazer (the Bronco is too choppy ) .The Blazer is far more popular with the public,than either my modern ,or vintage Ferrari.
First gen Broncos are ultra popular with all ages and both genders (yes,there are only 2 ! )
I get what you are saying, but this Bronco is not in the same category with a 72 Blazer. You described very well why a Bronco like this one would not be very desirable. The next series of Broncos are more comparable to your Blazer.
I agree with you Russ. You can’t compare a fullsize to the first gen Bronco, only to the the second gen. It all depends where you live too cuz even rust destroys the cheaply made K5. Just like the C/K, their body panels were not galvanized steel so they rot out like cancer. Now the first gen Bronco ran with the popularity like the Jeep CJs and the International Scouts. I like the small practically of these vehicles cuz you can drive them anywhere than the fullsize versions of the later years
Really nice one here. I think the carpet is aftermarket (and I’d prefer vinyl), not sure if the seats have been recovered (not that it really matters). I get the “uncut and original” value of the rear fenders, but they just look better to me cut with flares. I definitely get the appeal of these and would love to have one (or preferably a Blazer with the fully removable top), but for over $60k, I’d have to buy a new 4wd crew cab truck. Would be nice if I had the means to do both, but I have to spend my limited amount of money on more practical stuff..that I could use. No way I’m vacationing with the family in this old Bronco unless I’m vacationing within a 20 mile radius of my house!
I’m 50 and I will admit, i never saw these in the wild in my neck of the woods. Saw tons of Jeeps, Scouts, Blazers, but no Broncos until they came out with the generation following these. Cute little buggers, but not that $$$$ cute.
They were pretty impressive on the Rubicon Trail back in the day, speaking from experience.
What is the difference between “virtually no rust” and “rust free”, Adam?
Yes, the carpet is a later addition – all the early Broncos came with a vinyl floor mat of one type or another.
“Virtually rust free” according to the seller. At the current bid, I’d be mad if there was any rust.
Not true on the all Broncos had vinyl floors. Ranger package added color keyed full carpeting including on the tailgate. The stripes indicate this is likely a Bronco Ranger.
You’re right – brain fart on my part on the carpeting. I think it’s a Ranger too.
add to the comment “…not popular till…”:
these rode the rise of the net in early ’90s. At that time it totally changed my business model (so that rehab for sale was no longer affordable for me).
Reached #1 sale position ‘winter of covid’ (Feb ’20).
That spring fell to 23rd w/cherokee in #1.
New bronk introduced in ’21.
I’m curious whats the odometer reading on this bronco very nice vehicle
It takes 25-40 K to do a restoration. This mule wouldn’t take much more than 20 K to be worth 65 K.