1978 Ford Bronco Ranger XLT

Motorcar Studio is pleased to offer this 1978 Ford Bronco Ranger XLT. As popular as they are today, it's hard to imagine that sales for the Early Bronco peaked in 1974 and...

Motorcar Studio is pleased to offer this 1978 Ford Bronco Ranger XLT. As popular as they are today, it's hard to imagine that sales for the Early Bronco peaked in 1974 and declined considerably from 1975 to 1977 as buyers flocked to full-size SUVs like the Chevrolet K5 Blazer, International Scout II and Jeep Cherokee/Wagoneer. Thus the first full-size Bronco was born in 1978, built on a shortened version of the F-series pickup truck platform. This resulted in considerable cost savings for Ford (it was identical to an F-series pickup from the B pillar forward) -- and it was also a huge market success with a five-fold increase in sales over the final Early Bronco of 1977.

Longer, wider, heavier and more comfortably appointed than an Early Bronco, this truck is highly optioned with V8, automatic, power steering, power brakes, factory A/C, cruise control and high-back captain's chairs with armrests (Ranger XLT was the highest trim level offered). This full-size Bronco saw a driver-quality repaint some years ago in its original colors of dark brown metallic and white, an awesome 1970s color combo that's very much back in style. There are some scuffs and dings here and there, but it's not rusty -- floors pans and rockers are in excellent original condition (see photos). Nearly new BF Goodrich 33x12.50 all terrains on stock steel wheels with hubcaps.

Interior presents well with carpet, seat upholstery and dash all in good shape. Light wear showing on door panels, headliner and steering wheel. Power rear window, gauges, horn, wipers, lights (including instrument backlights) are all working. Factory cruise control and air conditioning components are intact but not presently operable. Like the Early Bronco (and International Scout II and K5 Blazer) the hard top is removable.

Under the hood is a 400 cubic inch V8 mated to a C6 automatic transmission -- originally fitted with a two-barrel carb, now it's running an Edelbrock four-barrel plus long-tube headers, both of which really help performance. Runs well and sounds great. Recent shocks and suspension bushings. Transmission shifts normally and four wheel drive is working. This is a good running and driving truck with a great period look that's nice enough to get complements but not so nice that you have to be worried about where you park or doing some occasional off-road exploring. For more information about this 1978 Ford Bronco for sale at Motorcar Studio in Atlanta, please call 404-692-5250.