1987 Ford Bronco XLT Station Wagon

Description

Ford's Bronco first hit the streets in 1965, the same year the Mustang was unveiled, and in its own way proved just as successful. The Bronco carved out a sizeable sector of the sports utility market over the next 30 years, paving the way for the successors like the Territory and Explorer. Competing directly with established rivals like Jeep's CJ and International's Scout, the first generation Bronco was a utilitarian four-wheel drive built on a unique platform, with some running gear common to Ford's F-100. These early Bronco's were powered by an in-line six and sold in wagon, roadster or pickup versions; over the next decade developments including more powerful motors, the option of automatic transmission and even power steering. By the 1970s it was clear Ford was losing sales to Chevrolet's bigger, more luxurious Blazer. The second generation Bronco unveiled in 1978 was in essence a short-wheelbase version of the F-100, sharing the same drivetrain and sheetmetal for the most part, with a much longer list of standard features. Fortunately for Australian buyers, the Ford's local management made the decision to offer the new Bronco here, taking on contenders like Nissan's Patrol, Toyota's Land Cruiser and even the Range Rover. In 1981 the F-series underwent a major facelift, with the Bronco offered in two versions, the basic Custom and better-equipped flagship Ranger XLT. Offered in two-door guise only, the Bronco was powered by Ford's Australian-made 4.1-litre six or the optional 351-cid V8, either with a four-speed manual or automatic transmission. The part-time four-wheel drive system and long-travel suspension made the Bronco a far more adept off-road performer than might have been expected, without sacrificing the excellent on road ride or handling. By the mid-1980s, the Bronco was an accomplished all-rounder, with strong sales, and the arrival of unleaded fuel saw the adoption of a fuel injected 5.0 V8, but the model was sadly discontinued in the late 1980s. The Bronco has always enjoyed a loyal following in this country and good examples are always in demand, even more so today with the burgeoning SUV collector market.