Classic Cruisers: 1983 Ford Bronco XLT is Bucking Wild!

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1983 ford bronco xlt

As we await the return of the ultimate SUV, we found a Bronco that tears it up with a 351 V8 and pristine original details. 

We’ve had Bronco on the brain ever since Ford announced it was bringing back the legendary rig. Ford has been incredibly tight-lipped about details for the upcoming 2020 Bronco. We know it will have a removable hardtop, so in that spirit, we thought this beautiful 1983 Ford Bronco XLT might whet your appetite for what a solid Ford SUV can be.

The light blue and dark blue two tone Bronco looks almost as good as it performs on the road. We found this beaut at GR Auto Gallery in Michigan. Described as a “one owner, two toner” Bronco, it has been lovingly cared for and is simply cherry. It also features a removable hardtop.

1983 ford bronco xlt

We’re shocked that it has only a little over 89,000 on the odometer. The previous owner clearly had much better restraint than we do. It was kept indoors in Oklahoma and Texas, with no rust and a clean undercarriage.

1983 ford bronco xlt

What really shines here is how solid and durable this Bronco is. The third-generation Broncos rolled off the line from 1980 to 1986, and took many of its design and styling cues from the F-150. We’re hoping Ford looks at this era when considering the upcoming reveal, because, damn.

1983 ford bronco xlt

Under the hood is a 351 V8 engine, mated to an automatic transmission. It also includes 4 wheel drive system. This is going to give some major rough and tough power on- and off-road.

The interior is all original, and completely awesome.

It also features a lot of cool and helpful extras; power windows, power steering, power brakes, XLT interior trim, tilt steering wheel, original gauges. The back seat is definitely looking sharp, with hardtop on or off.

1983 ford bronco xlt

You look at a classic Bronco like this and you just want to hit the road, hit the trails, hear that engine growl as you ride.

This is the kind of rig that would turn anyone into a Ford fan. At 36 years old, this Bronco could–and should–put many rides on the road to shame.

1983 ford bronco xlt

And, equally cool, the seller is asking less than $24,000. That is a great deal on a timeless tough Bronco.

Photos: GR Auto Gallery 

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Longtime automotive journalist S.J. Bryan has been covering the automotive industry for over five years and is an editor with Ford Truck Enthusiasts and regular contributor to F-150 Online, Harley-Davidson Forums, and The Mustang Source, among other popular auto sites.

Bryan first discovered her passion for all things automotive while riding in her parent's 1968 Ford Mustang. The automotive expert cut her teeth growing up riding on Harleys, and her first car was a Chevy Nova. Despite her lead foot, Bryan has yet to receive a speeding ticket.

The award-winning former playwright was first published at age 18. She has worked extensively as a writer and editor for a number of lifestyle and pop culture publications. The diehard gearhead is a big fan of American muscle cars, sixth-gen Ford trucks, and Oxford commas.

S.J. can be reached at sherryjbry@gmail.com.

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