Feb 18, 2024 • For Sale • 15 Comments
It is often said that a picture is worth a thousand words. This is particularly true for any owner seeking a buyer for a classic car. Their photos are often the first point of contact. The quality of the images in their listing could be the difference between a potential buyer pursuing that vehicle further or passing over it with barely a second glance. That brings us seamlessly to this 1968 Ford Bronco Sport. It makes a positive first impression, but with only one exterior shot showing the entire vehicle, we must piece the remaining shots together to determine its overall condition. It isn’t perfect, although its apparently solid nature means it is a classic a new owner could enjoy while contemplating their restoration path. The seller has listed the Bronco here on Craigslist in Bayside, Queens, New York. They set their price at $38,000, and I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Mitchell G. for spotting this frisky Ford.
Ford introduced the “Sport” package to the Bronco range in 1967. It brought cosmetic enhancements, including additional exterior bright trim and 15″ wheel covers. This Bronco rolled off the line the following year, and the images left me scratching my head. Some show the Bronco with the bright trim intact, while others suggest it is missing the distinctive rocker molds. That question is worth asking because it may indicate the photos were taken at different times. This makes me feel uneasy and should prompt potential buyers to negotiate an in-person inspection. The Signal Flare Red paint holds an impressive shine. The close-up shots reveal a range of chips and imperfections, but the Ford is presentable for those seeking a driver-grade classic. The seller confirms they replaced the driver’s side front fender and grille and that the hood received a repaint during this process. The best news for potential buyers could be the apparent lack of significant rust. This Bronco spent most of its time in Arizona. The exterior is clean, and the only rust rating mentioned is surface corrosion on the frame. There is no history of steel penetration, which is an achievement for any First Generation Bronco.
The seller doesn’t provide a clear engine shot, but I felt this one was worth including. It shows the rust-prone front inner fenders, and these appear rock-solid. We can also see a heavy layer of surface corrosion on the booster, and the lack of a vacuum line suggests it is inoperative. Powering this Ford is the optional numbers-matching 289ci V8, producing 195hp and 288 ft/lbs of torque. The power should feed to the dual-range transfer case via a three-speed manual transmission, but the seller confirms that this has been swapped for a C4 automatic. That would provide a more effortless driving experience, particularly in heavy traffic or when crossing rugged terrain. The vehicle also features power front disc brakes and the factory B8J option that brings a 3.50 limited-slip rear end and power steering. The seller claims this Bronco has just under 50,000 original miles on the clock. However, there is no concrete information on how it runs and drives.
One aspect of this Bronco needing nothing is its interior. The White painted surfaces were recently refreshed, while the Parchment seatcovers are new. The same appears true of the door trims, carpet, and pad. The only visible aftermarket addition is a sturdy rollbar, with the interior short of such luxury touches as a radio. I like its crisp and clean current appearance, and I would probably leave it untouched if it were in my garage.
This 1968 Bronco Sport seems to tick many of the right boxes for potential buyers. It appears to be a rust-free classic with a low odometer reading. Its interior needs nothing, and the mechanical specifications promise competent performance in all circ*mstances. The seller’s price is highly competitive in the current market, and I would typically expect someone to snap it up reasonably quickly. That begs the question of why this hasn’t happened. I believe the listing contains the answer. The poor photo quality and lack of specific information on how it runs and drives may have led some to place it in the “too hard” basket. The seller doesn’t do this classic justice, which is a shame because they are shortchanging themselves. Do you agree?
FAQs
The specific lifespan is a mystery as there are many factors that are bound to influence how long will a Bronco last. With proper maintenance and care, the new Bronco should last anywhere from 150,000 to 200,000 miles or more.
How much to restore an old Bronco? ›
Restored Broncos can cost anywhere from $50,000 to well over $100,000, depending on the extent of the restoration and the quality of the work done. For example, a fully restored 1966 Ford Bronco can fetch upwards of $150,000!
Why are older Ford Broncos so expensive? ›
It's important to realize that money can go fast on a classic vehicle. An early vehicle like the classic Bronco will be very different from your modern daily driver. Broncos from the first generation were produced over half a century ago, which means the parts it was built with are also that old.
Is a Bronco Sport reliable? ›
The 2024 Ford Bronco Sport has a predicted reliability score of 87 out of 100. A J.D. Power predicted reliability score of 91-100 is considered the Best, 81-90 is Great, 70-80 is Average and 0-69 is Fair and considered below average.
Do Bronco sports hold value? ›
According to the analysis of iSeeCars.com, the Ford Bronco seems to hold its value pretty well. After five years, it retains just over half of its original price, making it the 17th most valuable Ford model in terms of resale value. This indicates that the Bronco is a reliable long-term option if you plan to sell it.
What is the best year for the older Bronco? ›
Out of all the years of the first-generation Bronco, 1977 is widely considered to be the best year although anything from 74 is not only sought after, but more widely available.
Is a vintage Ford Bronco a good investment? ›
The Value of an Old Ford Bronco
The answer to all three questions is a resounding yes. Classic Broncos, especially those in good condition or those that have been restored, are considered valuable. They have a strong following, which helps maintain their value over time.
Is an old Ford Bronco worth it? ›
If maintained well over the years, vintage Ford Broncos can be remarkably reliable. Their simple mechanical design, robust construction, and solid axles were built to last. That's the good news. However, as is typical of vehicles from that era, they do come with inherent quirks.
What is the problem with the Bronco Sport engine? ›
Ford is recalling more than 456,000 Bronco Sport SUVs from the 2021–2024 model years and Maverick pickup trucks from the 2022–2023 model years because the engine may lose power while driving. If this happens, drivers may not be able to accelerate or keep up with traffic, which could cause a crash.
What is the problem with the Ford Bronco Sport engine? ›
The recall covers certain Bronco Sport SUVs from the 2022 and 2023 model years, as well as Escape SUVs from 2022. All have 1.5-liter engines. Ford says in documents filed with U.S. safety regulators that fuel injectors can crack, and gasoline or vapor can accumulate near ignition sources, possibly touching off fires.
Ford Motor is recalling 456,565 Bronco Sport SUVs and Maverick pickup trucks because the vehicles may fail to detect a low battery charge, which could lead to a loss of engine and electrical power while driving.
Why are Ford Broncos so rare? ›
The Ford Bronco has been plagued by quality-control issues such as issues with the paint, the hardtop roof, alleged terminal engine issues, and a few others. All of these have put significant strain on the production of the Bronco and have even prompted a dozen recalls up until now.
What year was the old Bronco last made? ›
The Ford Bronco was discontinued in 1996, but the company brought it back to life in 2020. It is based on the Ford Bronco truck and is available in two-door or four-door configurations. The two most recent models are the 2022 and 2023 Bronco, with multiple trim levels.
How often does Bronco Sport need an oil change? ›
Ford recommends scheduling an oil change every 7,500 miles or every six months (whichever comes first). This will help extend the lifespan of your 2023 Bronco Sport and enhance its fuel efficiency.
How long do Bronco Sport tires last? ›
What damages tires on my Ford Bronco Sport? Some tires may last up to 50,000 - 60,000 miles, while others may last as little as 10,000 miles.
Does the Ford Bronco sport have a timing belt or chain? ›
Newer models use timing belts made of polyurethane and Kevlar for long life and durability. They can go as long as 100,000 miles although it's always a good idea to change it before then. Belt failure can cause extensive damage to the valves, pistons and other internal parts of the engine.
What is the Ford Bronco Sport 10000 mile service? ›
10,000 Miles: Rotate tires and inspect for wear, change engine oil and replace oil filter, inspect automatic transmission fluid level, inspect brake pads, rotors, hoses and parking brake, inspect exhaust system and heat shields, inspect half-shaft boots, inspect rear axle and u-joints; lubricate if equipped with grease ...
