Introduced in 1966 after being conceived by Fords product manager Donald N. Frey, the Early Bronco was designed as an Off-Road Vehicle that rivalled other small 4 wheel drives such as the Jeep or Harvester. It went through five generations before ending its run in 1996. As Fords first compact Sports Utility Vehicle, its small frame and its 92 inch wheelbase made it excellent for off-roading and it quickly gained in popularity.
Selling over 230,800 units, the first generation was also favoured by the military; each vehicle custom painted to match the branch where it would be used. (Green, blue and gray for the Army, Air Force and Navy.)
The Bronco was designed off its own platform by engineer Paul G Axelrad. Its frame, body and suspension were not based on any other production model. The SUV acquired a turning circle of 34 feet by using brakes and axles from the Ford F-100 pickup truck. This made it ideal for plowing snow. The 170 cu six cylinder standard engine was later increased to compete with a rival.
The flat glass, C-section bumpers and simplistic box frame suited the basic style and also kept the budget within its allowed restrictions. Production started with the half-cab models, roadster and wagon with the sports model replacing the unpopular roadster in 1968.
Released with a price tag of US$2,194 the basic model featured upgrades as optional extras. Self-adjusting brakes, chrome grilles, CB radios, dual master cylinders, winches, rear bench and front bucket seats, tow bars, tachometers, auxiliary springs, snow plow kits and auxiliary gas tanks were all available.
Curved end bumpers with side marker reflectors identified the 1968 models and the 1977 model was unique for being the final first generation model and for its plastic gas tank. In 1969 the amber lensed 302 replaced the white lensed 289. Other options introduced over the years included new door handles, repositioned reflectors and sidelights, locking hubs and back up lights.
In 1971 the Baja Bronco package with a price tag of US$5,566 was offered. With power steering, roll bar, reinforced bumpers, auto transmission and distinctive paint color 650 production units were sold over 4 years.
Even though Ford was regularly updating its models with power steering, unleaded fuel engines, power assisted front brakes and catalytic converters; the distinctive 302 emblem was cancelled in 1972 and half-cab production ceased in 1973. In 1977, its final year of production, the Early Broncos still sold 14,546 units during that year. The next generation larger vehicles rolled into the assembly line in 1978.
Thinking about buying or selling your early Bronco? Start with the free classifieds where you can find an early Ford Bronco for sale.