Evolution of the Ford Bronco
Few vehicles have left their mark upon the American cultural lexicon like the Ford Bronco. Synonymous with the wild American spirit, the Bronco has undergone plenty of changes throughout the years, garnering plenty of attention. The Bronco is somehow infamous, innovative, and inspiring, dating back to the 1960’s. Let’s take a look at the history of the Ford Bronco.
First Generation (1966-1977)
The Bronco’s inception dates back to the Jeep. During World War II, Ford was charged with developing over 250,000 Jeeps sturdy enough to support troops in a variety of terrains. When troops returned home, the demand for Ford-manufactured Jeeps was high! Ford saw the need to provide a sports-utility vehicle capable of taking advantage of the growing highway network but with more comfort and quality-of-life features to suit a family. Ford worked for years to develop the family-style Bronco that could still go over all terrains (G.O.A.T). The first Broncos came in a variety of body styles, with open-air models, pickup beds, and two-door models hitting production! The first Broncos came with a 105 HP engine, though a 289 HP V8 was soon introduced.
Second and Third Generation (1978-1986)
In ‘78, the popular Bronco got a facelift, providing more comfortable seats, a larger cabin, and more room for passengers in the back. It featured cutting-edge amenities like A/C, radios, and new paint designs! The oil crisis of the time necessitated additional changes, so over the life of the third generation, the Broncos got lighter, smaller, and more fuel efficient, taking advantage of new V-6 and V-8 engines.
Fourth and Fifth Generation (1987-1996)
The Bronco continued to modernize into its most iconic form in the 90s, as advances in aerodynamics, electronic fuel injection, and transmissions necessitated new generations. The Bronco continued to get more luxurious and technologically advanced, with the ’92 model dubbed the “Smartest Bronco ever”. It earned this monicker thanks to its advanced airbags, three-point seatbelts, and refrigerant-infused A/C. Despite this, demand died down as the tastes of American consumers changed. The Bronco continued to be revered in American culture thanks to cultural factors, earning a cult following after its discontinuation.
Return of the Bronco in 2021
25 years after its discontinuation, the Ford Bronco made a triumphant return as American tastes shifted back towards SUVs. The sixth generation of the Bronco pulls inspiration from the first Broncos designed back in the 60s and 70s, with a retro look that looks better than ever. These days, the Bronco can be had with two or four doors, with power that matches the pickup truck offerings in the Ford lineup. Broncos come with a removable roof, doors, and high clearance, enabling them to serve perfectly as the Jeep alternative it was initially designed as.
Ford Bronco Sport
Along with the full-sized Bronco, Ford released a smaller version designed to go places its older brother can’t go. The Sport thrives off-road, offering an affordable entry point to enthusiasts looking to get muddy. It features less power and space than the full-size Bronco but all the fun and customization options you expect from the nameplate. Visit Bob Moore Ford to take the Bronco or Bronco Sport for a test drive today!