When it comes to longstanding heritage, the Ford Bronco resonates with millions of people as a vehicle that stands as a true American cultural icon. The model came out 60 years ago and helped define the sport-utility segment. Featured on AutoHunter is an early Bronco – more specifically, a 1971 Ford Bronco 4WD listed by a dealer in Gladstone, Oregon. The auction will conclude on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. (MST).
The Bronco is as popular in 2026 as it was when that its iteration rolled off the line in 1966. In fact, over 146,000 units sold in 2025 – closing the gap with the ubiquitous Jeep Wrangler. What was so special about the early Bronco that helped it pave the way? For one, it excelled at go-anywhere versatility – and for those who wanted to be even more in touch with nature, an available removable top gave occupants an open-air, convertible-style experience.
While originally finished in Mallard Green (color code V), this 1971-model Bronco has been resprayed in Dark Gray Graphite. Exterior features include black-finished bumpers, fender flares, a driver’s-side mirror, and a dual exhaust system. The 17-inch aftermarket wheels are shod in grippy 33-inch Hercules Trail Digger M/T tires.
One of the earliest commercials for the Bronco said, “First four-wheel drive sports car. Blazing a new trail of excitement.” The ad went on to call the Bronco, “A rock-tough, go-anywhere sports car,” discussing the available body styles which included a roadster, a pickup, and a wagon. It was a stretch to call the Bronco a sports car, or even compare it to one, but when the Bronco came out in 1966, sports cars were on everyone’s mind since the Mustang pony car had recently debuted and its rival Camaro was on the way shortly.
The cabin in this Bronco has been modernized with a set of Recaro black cloth bucket seats, a MOMO steering wheel, a Kenwood audio system, and custom speakers. In keeping with the Bronco’s all-terrain, all-weather approach, the flooring is a textured, painted metal finish instead of carpeting, which makes for easy clean-up after the going gets rough.
Power comes from a rebuilt “G-code” 302ci V8 with a four-barrel carburetor and an aftermarket intake manifold. A three-speed manual transmission and a dual-range transfer case send power to all four corners.
It seems this Bronco has the perfect blend of old and new – retaining a vintage silhouette while offering a rebuilt engine, bolstered Recaro seating, and a modern audio system. Get ready to saddle up for some fun!
The auction for this 1971 Ford Bronco 4WD ends Tuesday, January 27, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. (MST).
Visit the AutoHunter listing for more information and a photo gallery
