First introduced in 1965, the Ford Bronco was the world’s first sports-utility vehicle. However, the history of why the Ford Bronco came about dates back to World War II. During the war, Ford produced thousands of Jeeps for utility use, and once veterans began to return from the war, Jeeps were their vehicle of choice.
However, as road systems improved and demand for a more comfortable and even luxury driving experience emerged, Ford saw this as an opportunity to create a new vehicle that still had the durability of the Jeep but could also serve as a more comfortable everyday sports vehicle. And this idea is what ultimately led to the creation of the first Bronco.
While the first release of the Bronco was offered in three primary body styles—the Roadster, Sports Utility, and the Wagon—Ford offered a staggering number of optional packages, allowing consumers to create their own custom Ford Bronco to match their wants and needs.
From 1966 to 1996, numerous Ford Bronco models were released. However, after the 1996 model year, there was a decline in demand for large two-door SUVs, resulting in the Bronco’s discontinuation.
But in recent years, there has been growing interest in vintage car models like the Ford Bronco, which led to Ford bringing the vehicle back for its sixth generation in 2021. And once again, the Ford Bronco is now one of the most popular vehicles in America.
However, if you are looking for a cool Ford Bronco, you don’t necessarily have to buy one of the newer models. Vintage and classic car enthusiasts have been hanging on to these cars and fixing them up for years. So if you want to get your hands on one, there are options.
As such, we thought we’d provide a shortlist of the most influential and cool Ford Bronco models to give you an overview of what’s out there, in case you’re interested.
1. 1966 Ford Bronco
The original vintage 60s Ford Bronco remains one of the most popular Bronco models to date. However, because of its popularity, finding one is extremely difficult. So, if you can get your hands on one of these cool Ford Bronco models, count yourself lucky.
Riding on a 92-inch wheelbase, the original Bronco was simple and timeless. However, despite its smaller size, the use of coil springs afforded it good wheel articulation on off-road trails as well as decent handling on the streets.
2. 1969 Ford Bronco Boss
As interest in cool muscle cars increased towards the end of the 60s, Ford decided to churn out the Ford Bronco Boss, which was a cross between the 1969 Shelby GT350 and the classic Bronco style. Next to the OG 1966 model, the Ford Bronco Boss, with its sportier style and yellow color, is definitely one of the coolest Ford Bronco models ever produced.
The Bronco model could outrun many sports car models with its a302 V8 engine, 3-speed automatic gearbox, 4:11 gears, and a modified suspension and drivetrain. Unfortunately, the cost of producing such a high-performance sports model outweighed the demand at the time, which led to Ford deciding to scrap the project.
3. Ford Bronco Baja
Bill Stroppe, one of the most influential men in Ford’s motor racing program, raced many Broncos. And after winning the legendary Baja 1000 race, Ford decided to commemorate this success by releasing a special edition of the Bronco called the Baja—famously referred to as Stroppe’s Bronco.
This cool Ford Bronco model featured an orange, white, and blue paint scheme with a 302 V8 engine, automatic transmission, and a wide range of other unique details and features. Experts believe that there were only around 450 to 650 Bronco Bajas built in total, making it another rare model to get your hands on.
4. 70s Freewheelin’ Bronco
In the late 70s, to compensate for lower engine outputs in response to the oil crisis, Ford offered a limited run of special packages and graphics options—the most popular of which was the Freewheelin’ package.
This Ford Bronco model package included a rainbow stripe graphic, special rims and tires, a side-pipe exhaust, and numerous other special accessories, which allowed consumers to “dress up” their Bronco in the latest 70s fashions.
5. Current Ford Bronco SUV
Though there have been many cool Ford Bronco models in the past, we’d be remiss if we didn’t mention the newest addition to the Bronco family. After a 25-year absence, Ford brought the Bronco back in 2021 and is continuing to release upgraded models each year.
While the newer models certainly have a more modern design, there’s no denying the distinct Bronco style of the boxy SUV. Today, you can customize your Bronco to your heart’s content with a wide range of packages, technology features, accessories, and modes for off-roading. Currently, there are ten different models to choose from, all of which can be further customized to suit your needs.
Protect Your Vintage Vehicle with Classic Auto Insurance
While you can certainly outfit yourself with a brand-new Ford Bronco that is sure to impress, there’s no denying the joy of owning a classic Bronco. However, if you do go the route of vintage car ownership, you’ll need a special kind of insurance to protect your piece of Ford history.
At Classic Auto Insurance, we offer excellent coverage on classic, vintage, sport, and luxury cars and work with each client individually to determine the worth of their particular vehicle to find a plan best suited to their needs.
If you need insurance for your classic car, you can request a quote here today. We are also available by phone at 888-901-1338. We are happy to answer any questions you may have about our policies and are ready to help you take the next steps toward preserving your prized vehicle.
