Ford Bronco: A Classic SUV That Stands the Test of Time
**The Rise and Fall of the Ford Bronco**
The Ford Bronco, produced from 1966 to 1996, was a formidable competitor to the iconic Jeep Wrangler. However, over the years, these first-generation Broncos became a rare find in junkyards, either destroyed beyond recognition or stripped of their parts within days of arrival. That’s why stumbling upon a well-preserved 1983 Ford Bronco in a Denver-area junkyard is a truly remarkable discovery.
**From Bespoke Chassis to F-Series Heritage**
Originally, the first-generation Bronco (1966-1977) was constructed on its own unique chassis, boasting a compact and nimble 92″ wheelbase, similar to that of the MGB sports car. However, in 1978, Ford decided to revamp the Bronco by adopting a shortened version of the F-Series truck chassis. This change resulted in a larger and more substantial vehicle, with an increase in size and weight of over 1,500 pounds. Consequently, the Bronco became a proud member of the F-Series family until its discontinuation in 1996.
**A Glimpse into the Third-Generation**
Our featured 1983 Ford Bronco belongs to the third-generation, produced between 1980 and 1986. Its production date in December 1982 at Ford’s Michigan Truck Plant in Wayne indicates its historical significance. Moreover, the original sales office in Seattle, Washington sold this specific model when it was first released.
**Power and Performance**
Underneath the hood of this ’83 Bronco lies a reliable 300-cubic-inch (4.9-liter) straight-six engine. This robust powerplant, specifically designed for trucks, generates 115 horsepower and 223 pound-feet of torque in this particular application. Alternatively, buyers could opt for the 302 or 351 Windsor V8 engines, each offering even more power and performance.
**A Manual Transmission with an Overdrive Option**
The base transmission in the 1983 Bronco was a four-speed manual, providing a classic driving experience. However, drivers had the option to equip their Bronco with an overdrive top gear for an additional $78. This upgrade allowed for more fuel-efficient cruising at higher speeds—a feature that would be highly sought after today.
**The Bronco Experience: Primitive and Unrefined**
Compared to modern SUVs, the third-generation Bronco offers a stark contrast in comfort and refinement. This rugged truck-based SUV represents a bygone era of simplicity, standing as a testament to Ford’s commitment to building durable and reliable vehicles. Although it may be considered crude by today’s standards, the timeless appeal of the Bronco is undeniable.
**Minimal Options, Maximum Utility**
While this particular model didn’t come with many optional extras, it did offer a rear window defroster as an additional feature. As for air conditioning, Ford deemed it unnecessary, encouraging drivers to enjoy the fresh air by simply rolling down the windows. The base price for the ’83 Bronco was $10,589, equivalent to approximately $33,948 in today’s dollars.
**A Legacy of Confusion: The Bronco II**
Adding to the confusion surrounding the Bronco nameplate, Ford introduced the Bronco II in 1984. This compact SUV was based on the Ranger platform rather than the F-Series like its predecessors. Thus, it can be argued that the current iteration of the Bronco is more aligned with its Bronco II ancestor rather than the F-Series-based models.
**Iconic Connections and Infamous References**
The release of the Ford Bronco in 1983 came at an interesting time historically. Six years after the Fall of Saigon and two years after the release of the movie “Apocalypse Now,” Ford’s decision to promote their new trucks with a helicopter assault while playing “Ride of the Valkyries” may have been seen as poor taste. Nonetheless, it speaks to the bold and daring spirit that the Bronco represented in the minds of its creators and consumers.
**Get Your Hands on a Classic Bronco**
Finally, for those seeking a piece of automotive history, National Ford Truck Week offers incredible deals on new 1983 Bronco models. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to own a classic SUV that captures the essence of adventure and ruggedness.
