Ford Bronco was one of the first sport-utility vehicles launched in 1965.The original Ford Bronco was essentially a compact two-door SUV best suited for off-roading duties like a Jeep CJ.
1978 Bronco was based on F-Series platform to bump it into full-size territory. But this Bronco is rare, since it was redesigned again for 1980 along with the F-Series. Although changes were made over the years to the powertrain, body styling and interior, this third-generation Bronco essentially lasted until it was cancelled in 1996. Bronco was available in a singular two-door body style that featured a fiberglass rear roof section that could be removed. The Bronco underwent its final refresh for 1992, including a new grille and more rounded front end. A new instrument panel and seat styles also debuted that kept the Bronco consistent with the F-Series pickup. This Bronco design lasted until the model was discontinued in 1996.
The initial standard engine was a 4.9-liter inline-6 rated at 145 horsepower and 265 pound-feet of torque. From second year onwards standard engine was a 5.0-liter V8 that made 185 hp and 270 lb-ft of torque. In 1994, Ford upgraded this engine to 200 hp. Also available was a 5.8-liter V8 that made 200 hp (later 210 hp) and 300 lb-ft of torque.
First Generation (1965 – 1977)
First generation Bronco was offered in three variants – a two-door wagon, a half-cab pickup, and an open-body roadster powered by 170-cubic-inch overhead-valve six-cylinder engine that developed 105 horsepower at 4,400 rpm.
Second Generation: (1978 -1979)
Twelve years later, in 1978 the second generation debuted as a three door model with a removable hard-top. Second generation was so popular that it won several 4×4 and truck of the year awards. Engine line-up includes two V8’s, a 5.8 liter producing 135 hp and an upgraded 6.6 liter producing 149 hp. Power channeled via 4-speed manual transmission and an optional 4-speed automatic.
Third Generation: (1980 – 1986)
Third generation Bronco was offered with an in-line six cylinder engine along with the V8’s. Debuted in 1980, the new Bronco was tuned for on-road cruises as well. New Bronco features Ford’s newly designed logo. Third generation featured independent suspension and swing axle to improve on-road ride comfort. Eddie Bauer trim with bucket seats, wood trim and two-tone paint scheme was added.
Fourth Generation: (1987 – 1991)
Highlight of fourth generation was the introduction of Bronco II, a two-door SUV based on the big Bronco. Fourth generation Bronco and F-150 pickup has the same underpinnings and powered by 2.8 and 2.9-liter V6 engines and a 2.3-liter diesel in-line four cylinder engine.
Fifth Generation: (1992 – 1996)
Fifth generation Bronco was launched in 1991 equipped with a 4.9-liter in-line six cylinder engine mated to a 5-speed manual. The final Bronco went into production in 1996 featuring driver-side airbags, three-point seatbelts for rear seats, and front crumple zones.
