First Generation Bronco has Thoroughbred Power

Asking Quadruple

Billed as an 'All-Purpose Vehicle' when first released, few could have predicted that Ford's humble little go-anywhere rig would eventually become a sought-after and pricey collectible. Tipping the 'mad money' scale is this 1967 unit, built by Bronco Barn in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Up for consignment sale, the asking price is more than quadruple that of a new Bronco.

Photos courtesy of Classic Auto Mall.

Comfort Code

First-generation Broncos have the distinction of being America's first SUV, but in name only. In 1962, Ford surveyed Jeep and International Harvester Scout owners, finding that many of them were dissatisfied with the power and comfort of their vehicles. Seizing the opportunity, Ford's Product Planning Committee recommended further development of its utility vehicle—code named Bronco.

Original Boss

Some fifty years later, the cost and popularity of first-gen Broncos are through the roof. The asking price for this restored and upgraded 1967 rig is $125,000. For that sort of money, the next owner will get a machine that at least exceeds what the original designer Donald Frey and Blue Oval boss, Lee Iacocca had envisioned back in 1962.

Treated Right

Amos Zuck, the owner of Bronco Barn, has gone all out on this restoration. Featured in the February 2019 edition of Road & Track magazine, the Bronco pictured here was first treated to a frame-off restoration. To get just the right stance, a suspension and body lift was done, followed by a small block motor and lastly a plush leather interior.

Enlarged Inches

When first released in 1965, the Bronco was equipped with a 170 cubic-inch, 105 horsepower, inline-six. By 1966, the 200 horsepower, 289 cubic-inch V8 was offered as an option. Three years later, it was replaced by the 302 motor, which remained available until 1977. The standard, inline six was enlarged to 200 cubic inches in 1973, also remaining in production until 1977.

Polished Package

Harnessing a bit of history and hot rodding, Bronco Barn chose the 302 small block option for this off-road performer. Providing ample motivation, a four-barrel Edelbrock carburetor was fitted to handle fuel dispersion. That assembly is capped with a ribbed air cleaner, while polished Ford Racing valve covers tie the simple, yet effective engine package together.

Maximum Output

A three-speed C4 automatic transmission and a Ford 9'' rear end handle the motor output. Up front, a Dana 44 sits at the ready for those times when extra traction is required. Getting right down to the low end, both axles are fitted with 4.11 gears. Flowmaster mufflers were installed for a robust sound and maximum exhaust venting.

Useful Charm

Simple and tidy defines the Bronco's interior. While sparse, the passenger compartment is fitted with black lambskin leather buckets, stitched in matching red diamonds. A Vintage Air heat and air conditioning system takes care of basic creature comforts. Old school charm and eminently useful is a hard package to beat. The cost of this 'thoroughbred' example is a whole other consideration.

>>Join the conversation about this restomod first generation Bronco right here in the forum.

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