Featured on AutoHunter, the online auction platform driven by ClassicCars.com, is this 1968 Ford Bronco 289 3-Speed.
According to data from Hagerty that was published in 2020, an “Average” (good-condition) first-generation Ford Bronco at the time was valued at around $40,000, but author Greg Ingold also stated that near-perfect V8 examples could go for easily double that figure. Needless to say, it takes deep pockets to get into the vintage Bronco game. And that’s based on four-year-old data. How’s the market in 2024?
Perhaps you are looking to get into the early Bronco game at a more reasonable price – even if it means starting with a truck that is more of a project. If so, you are in luck. Today’s featured Bronco has enough “character” to justify a price that will likely be less than a concours-level standard. There are a few rust spots around the body, and a sizeable scratch can be seen on the driver side rear quarter panel in the photos. But luckily, the truck is still a solid running and driving vehicle with “good bones.” It is being listed via a dealer in Poplar Bluff, Missouri, and the auction ends next Tuesday.
Versatility was the name of the game for the early Broncos from 1966 through 1977. This one came optioned with a removable hardtop, a dual-range transfer case, and manual locking hubs. Thanks to a short wheelbase and narrow dimensions, its go-anywhere capability is elevated above even the newest-generation Bronco. (For comparison, the new Bronco is about two feet longer and six inches wider when compared to the first-generation).
Power for this sport-utility comes from a 289cid V8 backed by a three-speed manual transmission. The spark plugs and coil have been replaced. The vehicle is shown two-minute video on the seller’s YouTube channel featuring the exterior, interior, and some driving scenes.
While not perfect, this Bronco offers a compelling argument for buying a classic vehicle that you can actually drive and enjoy. All-too-frequently, collectors acquire low-mileage pristine vehicles that spend the rest of their lives under covers and connected to battery tenders. With this Bronco, there are options: Take the restoration to a show-quality final form, or drive it and enjoy it as-is. It would look great tackling some rugged back roads.
The auction for this 1968 Ford Bronco 289 3-Speed ends Tuesday, January 16, 2023 at 12:45 p.m. (MST)
Visit the AutoHunter listing for more information and photo gallery
