Ford Bronco History

TheFord Bronco is a rugged SUV by all accounts and has made itself the king SUV of the off-roads in and beyond the Fayetteville and Springdale areas. The 2023 model is built on more than 50 years of design and engineering. You’ll get great handling and engine performance with current models. Yet, the classic Ford Bronco immediately calls to mind images of the rugged outdoors, camping trips, off-road jaunts, and go-anywhere capability that today’s Bronco fans adore. With its one-of-a-kind appearance and vaunted powertrains, the early Ford Bronco made a name for itself that persists today and beyond. Learn more about the history of this model, and find out how it set the stage for the sixth-generation Ford Bronco for sale today.

The Classic Ford Bronco: First Generation (1965–1977)

The classic Ford Bronco is one of the most iconic vehicles of the 20th century. Take a look at some of the early Ford Bronco history with car shoppers, with the first generation:

• The original classic Ford Bronco was developed as a passenger-friendly off-road vehicle with a completely unique chassis.
• Today, with its 92-inch wheelbase, it would fall into the compact SUV class. All models were initially sold with four-wheel drive as standard.
• The original Ford Bronco engine was a 105-hp inline-6, derived from the engine in the Ford Falcon.
• The classic Ford Bronco wasn’t flashy or dressed up, but it stood out precisely for that reason! Customers got a no-nonsense vehicle that withstood anything people threw at it.

Weren’t There Other Old Ford Bronco Models?

In fact, there were several other iterations of the classic Ford Bronco archetype. We’ve covered them all in turn!

Second Generation (1978-1980)

In 1978, the old Ford Bronco entered its second generation as a full-size SUV to stand up to the rivals of the day. Although this model retained many styling notes from the first generation, there were more than a few fantastic changes that upgraded the original style.

• Retiring of the original Bronco chassis, and its replacement with a chassis adapted directly from the Ford F-Series pickup truck.
• A wheelbase extension of 12 inches, bucking the trend toward downsizing which dominated the American automotive industry at the time during the fuel crisis when gas prices were high.
• Eschewing the multiple body configurations offered on the first generation, the second-generation Bronco only had a three-door wagon.

Third Generation (1980-1986)

The third-generation Ford Bronco was smaller and more compact than previous iterations. However, the SUV would retain its full-size classification. It continued to be based on a chassis adapted from the F-Series.

Ford Bronco II (1983-1990)

Just three years after the release of the third-generation Ford Bronco, Ford unveiled the Bronco II. It was a new and unique line. As a compact SUV, it was closer in size and stature to the original Ford Bronco than even the third generation. It was developed in concert with the 1983 Ford Ranger, and both models shared the same engines. The Bronco II would eventually be replaced by the Ford Explorer.

Fourth Generation (1987-1991)

The fourth-generation Ford Bronco received a wide range of interior and exterior updates, although the chassis stayed the same. Fans of the classic Ford Bronco loved the Silver Anniversary Edition, the very first early Ford Bronco offered with leather seating.

Fifth Generation (1992-1996)

The fifth generation Ford Bronco is probably the most recognizable of the classic Ford Bronco models, but the changes built into this generation were few. There were some interior updates, as well as changes to safety features. This generation was the last one with the classic hardtop. In 1996, Ford discontinued the brand before bringing it back 25 years later.

Sixth Generation (2021 – )

Ford revived the Ford Bronco sixth-generation Ford Bronco as a mid-size SUV with several updates:

• Classic body-on-frame construction
• Independent suspension
• 2.3-liter turbocharged EcoBoost® inline-four engine

Like the classic Ford Bronco, it features a detachable roof, where drivers can feel the open air running through their hair. Check out our coverage of the Bronco interior or Bronco colors to learn more.

Test Drive a New Ford Bronco Today!

If you’re in love with a classic Ford Bronco, we know you’ll feel the same way about the newest version of this fan-favorite model. Look over our new Ford inventory to pick out one near Rogers. If you’re interested in buying one, apply for financing and check out our new vehicle specials to see if you can save some money on your purchase.