If you had been one of the 21,894 buyers in 1973 who slapped down their hard-earned cash on a new Ford Bronco, you could have been laughing all the way to the bank today. The vehicle would have cost you around $3,700 off the showroom floor, but today, a good Bronco can easily fetch a high five-figure value. This 1973 Bronco Ranger makes a positive first impression. It features its original V8 under the hood and appears to be remarkably unmolested. The owner has decided to part with this classic, so he has listed it for sale here on eBay. The seller is located in Boise, Idaho, and he has set a BIN of $50,000. So, let’s take a look and see if that figure is justified.
There’s a bit to consider with this Orange and White Bronco. Its overall presentation appears better than many we have seen in recent times at Barn Finds. The panels are straight, and the wheel arches have not been cut to accommodate larger wheels and tires. That is a common fate with these classics, and although addressing it is relatively easy and inexpensive, it adds to the cost burden of any restoration. The vehicle retains all of its original exterior trim and chrome, and while some of this may be damaged, it all appears to be restorable. The glass looks good, with no significant flaws or problems. I haven’t been skirting around the question of rust and corrosion, so now we need to tackle that subject. These First Generation Broncos are renowned for these problems, and unfortunately, this one has not been immune. However, it seems that things aren’t as bad as they could be. The seller indicates that the inner rockers have rust, while the front inner fenders have succumbed to the usual levels of rot. Finding replacement steel for these classics is pretty easy, and it remains inexpensive. If the floors and frame are structurally sound, whipping the panels and paint into shape may not be a significant undertaking. Having said that, I would always encourage an in-person inspection in a case like this. It may seem like an added hassle, but it could eventually prove to be time well spent.
The original owner ordered this Bronco with the 302ci V8 backed by a three-speed automatic transmission. While there is no power assistance for the brakes, it appears that this vehicle features power steering. With 137hp on tap, the 1973 Bronco could be an energetic performer. Although its bread-and-butter was allowing its occupants to access some pretty harsh terrain, it was still capable of romping through the ¼ mile in 18.9 seconds. It appears that this Bronco may be a numbers-matching survivor, and the engine bay presents extremely well. I can spot an aftermarket aluminum radiator, but it looks otherwise original. The seller doesn’t indicate how well this Ford runs or drives, but we know that it doesn’t stop. He says that the brakes are inoperative, but not whether he has investigated why this is the case. That sounds like a task that might fall to the buyer, so they may need to expect to spend a few dollars here. If the rest of the drivetrain is in sound mechanical health, it still may prove relatively inexpensive to return this classic to its rightful place on our roads.
If this Bronco has a highlight, that honor has to fall to its interior presentation. The owner has recently fitted new upholstery on all three seats, and it appears that there is new carpet on the floors. The painted surfaces on the dash are acceptable for a survivor, and the pad is in excellent order. The buyer will probably choose to spend $70 each on new armrests for the doors and might tackle restoring the cracked wheel in their home workshop. The vehicle features a factory radio and dealer-installed air conditioning. The A/C doesn’t currently function, and this is another aspect of this restoration that will require investigation. However, if the buyer wants to leave everything untouched, it is still an interior guaranteed to turn heads.
At $50,000, this 1973 Ford Bronco Ranger could not be classed as a cheap project vehicle. However, it appears to be original and unmolested. It has some rust problems, but addressing these may not be particularly difficult or expensive. It is common for a V8-equipped Bronco from this era to command a value well beyond $60,000. A perfect example can climb to $70,000 or more with ease. When you look at what is on offer with this classic, do you feel that the BIN is realistic?
Pretty hefty price for something needing that much repair work. Two fuel tanks typical of the era as the gas shortage/price hike really hit hard. Had to put a second tank on our ’72 Blazer to get anywhere in those days. Wouldn’t pay the going in price on this rig but the new owner might consider a power brake addition if it’s going on the road these days.
BobHess- good points. How about just brakes at all? Ad says that there aren’t any brakes. $50k is a big ask for a car that doesn’t have any brakes IMO…..
Every one can spend their money as they want.For 50 thousand I would buy a brand new one with a warranty and all I would do is put in the key and gas:-)
The cars people bought, never drove and instead stashed away over the years; anniversary editions, limited editions, etc.
How many people would have thought to buy a 70s Ford Bronco and stash IT away?
Just like toy tractor collectors, a lot of them buy collector editions, which is fine, but the ones that gain value are the regular ones that kids destroy in the sandbox. Attrition builds value, just like cars.
That new upholstery is super cool.
Not sure why the new upholstery before fixing the brakes ?
perfect example of people with more money than sense. Has to be one of the most over hyped vehicles ever. 50k for a jeep cj competitor that will never see a speck of a muddy road in its life. Just so someone can ride around in a ” look at me” vehicle…just like what an HD is for most people, certainly aint the sterling performance an ride experience you get…overpriced, underpowered, ill handling, overweight….A friend said i’d love it…I tried, gave it 2 yrs of “love”….18k of regret….
The appeal of this 1st gen Bronco, or any vehicle, I guess, is relative…
I have no interest – but it must be appealing for, what? The simplistic nature – of the vehicle build, and what it represents? Way out on the ranch, farm, woods, or ? away from it all. Just your thoughts, the unspoiled view, and maybe that voice coming through the AM only one speaker radio. The fire you build that roars, and it’s reflection in the shiny hubcap. The 4WD and the short WB that make it all possible. That I can appreciate.
The 50K ask, the not-turn key ready, the fear of damage way out there where you and your Bronco really want to be. That, I can NOT appreciate.
I wouldn’t have wanted it new! Good luck to the seller!
It’s THE Deal of the New Year, don’t delay.
Just like toy tractor collectors, a lot of them buy collector editions, which is fine, but the ones that gain value are the regular ones that kids destroy in the sandbox. Attrition builds value, just like cars.
BRONCO Fever is almost as bad a COVID. I’ve seen New Ones for $80,000.00. So the old ones come outta the fields and barns and people thing they can retire because they have a Bronco. A new one is not worth DOUBLE The Sticker and this one is NOT WORTH $50.000.00
My son loves these things and we both have been watching them pretty close. He may get it but from what I have seen it is over priced for what they have been selling for. Usually a stock vehicle if in in good presentable and driving condition will bring this kind of money but everything seems to be working and no rust.
On the other hand I don’t see what all the hype is. The ones that bring big money are modified but still over priced. I seen one go for $212,000.00 the other day. I could buy the parts and build it for that and put some back in the bank.
No way I would pay the price for one if these. My 2006 Wrangler will go places this thing never do for half the money. It’s not stock but I don’t have $50,000 in it either. And everything in it works and no rust.
To each his own I guess.
you got that right about the wrangler, my brother bought new cj7 in 1976 and for some unknown reason used to let me, his younger brother, use it from time to time. he put some decent lugged tires he got from sears on it an that thing would go in 2whl drive where my buddys trucks could barely make it in 4whl drive.
“Runs and drives great”. Yet no brakes…
“Vehicle not located in Boise” then proceeds to never state where it IS located.
66% positive feedback and one of the positives sounds like a doting parents review of their kids work. And the negative simply states “scam”
It’s been said before,was junk years ago,still junk today if you like this ,you have a sweet taste for sour pickles
I am a Land Rover junkie. However, if they were not availble, these would be my go-to off roader. The problem is that they command 50k without brakes…Uh…There goes any possible trail use. Skid logs? Farm work? Nope and nope..A very USEFUL vehicle that, sadly, can’t be used…
This seller is a scammer. I personally know three people that had their Marketplace listings copied by this guy and then listed on eBay at a higher price WITHOUT their permission. He has been reported to eBay, and now he has had to add the language at the bottom that he does not own the vehicle, and that it isn’t in Boise. STAY FAR, FAR AWAY and keep reporting this guy until he’s moved on to pork bellies or some other get rich quick scheme.
Steve they don’t give Land Rovers away either. My parents had a 1964 and a 65 when I was younger. We had a lot of fun with them. Both were bought new in 64 and 65. Sold the last one in the early 1970’s.
With 50 vehicles for sale they must be a dealer.
I tried one out years ago for 3500$, nothing really jumped out at me so i passed , and to me this has no real value, Except to purchase and also flip for as crazy money as i can get.
Here’s his E-BAY Ad….. Some of these have already been listed here. https://www.ebay.com/sch/butterclassics/m.html?item=393810274724&rt=nc&_trksid=p2047675.m3561.l2562
It seems FJ40′ have slumped a little bit in the market so buy a fully restored one at that price and get twice the truck!!! My family has had both era Broncos and FJ’s and there is no comparison. My dad had a new (last year) 83 FJ (his first ever new vehicle) and was t-boned coming home from work by a full sized truck (drunk guy leaving a bar at 5:30pm…) He hit a telephone pole in the median too which stopped him. The FJ took it hard but insurance re-straightened the frame – one tough SOB…. oh yeah, FJ too lol. He also got pulled out of the mud by a dozer that launched him out of the mud literally it “hopped” out of the hole – surprised the bumper didn’t rip off!
“…do you feel that the BIN is realistic?…”
that Q is pretty much not determinable till purchase.
THIS rig is NOT a survivor (never mind the convoluted road to ‘is it actually 4Sale, by who’, etc). Lotta rest0 (did not look closely ‘& mod’?). If I sold mine I certainly couldnt afford this one…
The never cut comment might not B true (older 1/4 replacement panel? they have been avail 40 yrs) and numbers matching is more for chebby & 50s/60s european, form rec lost ina fire, even Marti don’t know) & the empty box manufacturing ford process disallows it.
Who cares, not a concourse vehicle. Get one/enjoy it.
BRONCO SMONCO
In 1973 I moved to Colorado
I looked at every 4×4 and there were not many I tried the Bronco/ Chevy Big Blazer/Dodge Ram something/ FJ40. Jeep CJ.
All had something I didn’t like the Bronco handled poorly was uncomfortable, I guess the power was OK, and not pretty a boxcar for sure.
I Chose a 1971 Jeepster Commando with every option and highway ride springs power steering, deluxe interior automatic. The best balance of ride comfort, ( hey I was just starting out and need to drive highway mile to my first job), That commando took me to work and helped me discover the Colorado rocky mountains. Lots or out of the way tough 4×4 roads. I camped and fished all over the state and got in and out of every challenge. Of course I didn’t go technical rock crawling that takes a custom rig even back then in the XX trails. She performed well. Smack it on rocks, not on purpose, drove through countless streams, got rolled over twice, and drowned her in a shallow lake. She took a lick-en and kept on ticken. Today she is fully over-restored, heck she deserved it after 50 years of dauntless service, won countless shows, in old 4×4 magazines and is a top attraction at cars and coffee. She is more beautiful then the day I bought her as a 0ne year used car! Not bragging but just proud to have been give the opportunity of fifty years of fun.
PS I would take NO First gen Bronco in a trade. I could never have put up with the toughness, roominess, or amazing comfort of my Jeepster Commando!
I would never have the nerve to ask $50,000 for a vehicle that isn’t fully functional, but I also wouldn’t copy someone else’s ad as my own.
I never had one, never rode in or drove one. The way they are described does not sound pleasant. But I wouldn’t mind trying one on for size if they weren’t so insanely priced. This one looks to be in relatively decent shape.