The Ford Bronco was a 4x4 SUV produced from 1965 through 1996, with four distinct generations.

It was initially introduced as a competitor for the Jeep CJ-5 and International Scout . A major redesign based on the F-series truck in the late 1970s brought a larger Bronco to compete with the Chevy Blazer and Dodge Ramcharger. Then the Ford Bronco II accompanied the Bronco for several years in the early 1980s. The late 1980s and early 1990s saw the return of the large Bronco, based on a newer F-series.

The full-size Broncos and the successor Expedition were produced at Ford's Michigan Truck Plant in Wayne, Michigan.

The Bronco permanently entered popular culture in 1994 as the vehicle in which O. J. Simpson traveled during his (in)famous low-speed chase with police through the Los Angeles area.

1966-1977

The original Broncos were small SUV's, intended to compete with Jeeps and International Scouts. Its small size made it popular for some but unpractical for others; for example they were popular as light-duty snowplows, but had little towing capability.

Engines:

• 1965-1972 170 in³ Straight-6
• 1966-1968 289 in³ Windsor V8
• 1969-1977 302 in³ Windsor V8
• 1973-1974 200 in³ Straight-6

1978-1986 Full Size Bronco

The redesign of the Bronco in 1978 was based on the F100 truck, sharing many chassis, drivetrain, and body components. Ford started the redesign in 1972, codenamed Project Short-Horn, but introduction was delayed by concerns over the mid-1970s fuel crisis. The increased size allowed them to compete with the full-size SUV's offered by GM (Chevrolet Blazer) and Chrysler (the Dodge Ramcharger).

There was some minor redesign of the model in 1980, mostly powertrain and chassis related.

Engines:

• 351 in³ 351M V8

replaced in 1982 by the

• 351 in³ Windsor V8
• 400 in³ 400 V8 optional through 1982 when it was eliminated from the company's lineup
• 300 in³ Straight-6 added in 1980 — to many, the best powertrain offered for its low-end torque and legendary reliability
• 302 in³ 302 V8 — added in 1980

1980-1986

The second oil crisis of the 1970s increased emphasis on fuel economy and led to the Bronco II design, nearer in size to the compact Ranger pick up and again sharing some chassis and drivetrain parts. However, full-size Broncos continued to be produced.

1987-1991

In 1987, the body and drivetrain of the Full-Size Bronco changed, as it was still based off of the full size F-Series. Again based on F-series trucks in their latest redesign, continued the towing capability and storage space that the compact Bronco II lacked. Along with the body change, also came EFI (electronic fuel injection), which improved power and fuel economy. They were built at the Michigan Truck Plant in Wayne, Michigan on the same line as F150s.

Engines:

• 300 in³ Straight-6
• 302 in³ Windsor V8
• 351 in³ Windsor V8

1992-1996

An update of the 1987 edition to go along with an F-series truck update. Most changes were visible as 'cosmetics'. Primary changes occurred inside of the cab, with changes concentrating in the dash and accessories. No major drivetrain changes occurred.

1997

In the 1997 model year, the Ford Expedition, which more effectively competed with GM's Chevrolet Suburban (four doors, comfort, better sales), was introduced as the successor to the Bronco. The Bronco name was dropped from production, but has been used on concept vehicles in 2004 and 2005.

See also

• Enthusiast reference page
• Reference on early Broncos
• Second generation Bronco reference
• Article on 2004 concept vehicle