A Brief History of the Ford Bronco | American Icons

The 2021 Ford Bronco’s announcement caused quite a lot of excitement among car enthusiasts. Interestingly, with so many SUVs and crossovers already available on the market, such powerful reactions may seem unusual at first glance. However, a closer examination would reveal how formidable the Bronco’s off-road capabilities are. And it’s been so for many years now. Dig even deeper, and you’ll unearth a genuinely unique story and the indisputable heritage left behind by this automotive icon. But what made it so popular in the first place?

To answer that question, let’s explore the Ford Bronco’s legacy, why it’s such an essential piece of off-road history, and what makes it a true American Icon.

First Generation (1966-1977)

In its initial version, Bronco was unique and shared little with other vehicles in the Ford lineup. With a sturdy and straightforward design combined with a boxy shape, this vehicle could tackle even the harshest terrains. At that time, the only real off-road vehicles on the market were the Jeep CJ-5 and International Harvester Scout. Also, successful participation in various Baja races helped gain popularity even before the sales started.

At the beginning of production, Bronco used a 170-cubic-inch inline-six engine borrowed from Ford Falcon. However, a wide range of modifications to internal components and carburetors made it more suitable for harsh environments. It grew to 200 cubic inches during the production run, and there were also two bigger V8 engines available.

To simplify the production process and lower the costs, all Broncos had a four-wheel-drive powertrain and three-speed manual transmission. However, many owners disliked the column shift arrangement, making the flour-mounted shifter kit a popular upgrade. After a few years and some pressure from potential buyers, an automatic transmission became an option.

While drivetrain options were somewhat limited, body configurations had three variants that could meet most buyers’ demands. Besides the standard two-door wagon, there was also a pickup truck and a roadster variant with an open body configuration. Interestingly, and unlike its competitors at the time, the first-generation Bronco came equipped with front coil springs, improving both control and ride comfort.

Second Generation (1978-1980)

During the 70s, an aging Bronco started losing ground against fresh competitors such as Chevrolet Blazer and Jeep Cherokee. However, the oil crisis that affected vehicle sales around the world delayed the introduction of its successor. Because of that setback, the second-generation Bronco’s design already appeared outdated when it hit the market. Luckily for Ford, the overall perception and consequent demand surpassed even the most optimistic expectations.

One of the primary reasons for the delayed introduction of the second-generation was the engine range. Unlike its predecessor, the new Bronco dropped the inline-six variant and offered a choice between two big V8 units. While ensuring a smooth power delivery and formidable driving characteristics, both engines were quite thirsty. Furthermore, the increased curb weight had a significant impact on the fuel economy.

In contrast to the limited transmission options of the first generation, the all-new Bronco offered several gearboxes. Besides the standard three-speed automatic, there were two different four-speed manual transmissions. However, all variants still came with a permanent four-wheel drive as the only available powertrain.

Although it shared both chassis and design details with the F-series of that time, Bronco kept its recognizable 2-door body shape. Another unique feature that set it apart from the rest of Ford’s lineup was a lift-off hardtop. Inside the vehicle, two rows of benches offered enough space for six adults.

Third Generation (1980-1986)

The third-generation Bronco‘s key idea was to keep both performance and full-size dimensions while lowering fuel consumption. Modifications that helped achieve this goal include weight reduction and more efficient drivetrains.

Once again, the engine range included a more frugal 300-cubic-inch inline-six and several V8 variants. Depending on the year, capacities varied between 302 and 351 cubic inches. Although all engines still used carburetors, the bigger V8 received an electronic fuel-injection system towards the end of the production.

In the early ages, buyers could choose between a four-speed manual or a three-speed automatic. Later on, a four-speed automatic with overdrive replaced its aging sibling. Another significant upgrade is a part-time four-wheel-drive system, ensuring better fuel economy and reduced component wear.

Dimensions and overall shape was very similar to its predecessors, but with more contemporary body lines. In general, third-generation Bronco shared many design elements with the rest of the F-series models. It also used a twin-beam suspension setup in the front, which further improved stability and ride comfort.

Fourth Generation (1987-1991)

As a part of continuous efforts to improve efficiency, the fourth generation Bronco focused on various aerodynamic tweaks. Sharing several body panels with F-150, it featured a flat front end with a redesigned bumper and flush headlights.

The situation under the hood was pretty much the same, with engines carried over from the previous generation. However, both straight-six and V8 units had electronic fuel injection combined with catalytic converters and OBD monitoring systems. Besides lowering fuel consumption, this also reduced emissions and helped meet strict pollution regulations.

Unlike the engine lineup, the transmission range included several new gearboxes, with a five-speed manual being the most significant update. Although available for initial production years, an outdated three-speed automatic quickly gave way to a more modern four-speed variant. Further enhancements to the four-wheel-drive systems included a push-button that replaced the gear lever control.

Fifth Generation (1992-1996)

By the beginning of the 90s, many car manufacturers had one or more sport utility vehicles seeking their place on the market. As a result, the fifth generation Bronco had to fight an uphill battle from the start. Numerous safety and comfort improvements couldn’t hide the fact that this aging vehicle was a kind of automotive dinosaur.

A quick look at the engine lineup would reveal that old inline-six and V8 units from the previous generation. Although reliable and robust, these engines could hardly compete with power outputs and consumption figures from the competition. Limited upgrades included MAF sensors and OBD2 protocols, which further improved emission control.

Just like with engines, all available transmissions were identical to those used in the fourth generation cars. Thus, buyers could choose between a five-speed manual and a four-speed automatic gearbox in two variants.

A range of safety updates included front crumple zones and three-point seat belts all around. It also meant that drivers couldn’t legally remove that iconic lift-off rear roof, as it incorporated rear seat belts. As sales gradually declined, Ford decided to drop the Bronco in favor of the larger and more versatile Explorer.

Sixth Generation (2021 model)

After a quarter-century hiatus and several concepts, Ford finally brought back the Bronco nameplate. With a distinct retro design and strong body-on-frame configuration, it will be a direct competitor to the Jeep Wrangler.

There will be two engines available, using the latest technology such as turbocharging and direct fuel injection. The smaller, 2.3-liter inline-four unit already proved its worth and potential in current EcoBoost Mustangs. The bigger 2.7-liter variant comes in a V6 configuration and offers performance figures comparable to a standard V8.

All models will come with a well-proven and reliable 10-speed SelectShift automatic transmission as a standard. Buyers can also choose a 7-speed manual transmission, but only in combination with a smaller engine. This is actually a standard 6-speed Getrag gearbox, with an additional crawler gear that helps tackle rough terrains.

Unlike its predecessors, the all-new Bronco will come in both 2-door and 4-door variants. This deviation from the original concept aims to widen the appeal among family users. Features like disconnecting sway bars, lockable differentials, and multiple drivetrain setups make this vehicle capable both on-road and trails.

Last Words

Ford Bronco is a vehicle with a long and rich history. It started as a rugged and sporty off-roader, only to evolve into a fun and capable vehicle as time went by. Although it somehow lost touch with potential buyers over the years, the name itself remained a worthy heritage.

And the upcoming 2021 Ford Bronco seems to be on track to lead the way in the off-road-oriented SUV market for years to come.