1979 Ford Bronco Ranger XLT: A Generation That Almost Didn’t Happen

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Ford’s 1974 plans to put the then compact Bronco on a chassis developed directly from its F-Series trucks almost didn’t make it to production out of concerns over the 1973 oil crisis. Fortunately though, Ford was able to release the second generation Bronco just two years before its successor took the reigns.


If Ford’s plans to go against an industry wide trend of downsizing had gone through in 1974, it could have spelled trouble for the Brands most famous SUV. The 1973 oil crisis had just sent buyers looking for more fuel efficient options, and a 400-cid engine powered full-size SUV was definitely not the solution. Instead, Ford stuck with selling the smaller designed first generation Bronco with its standard inline-six engine option though 1977. All the while, it was building the second generation and developing the third.

Ford finally released the second generation Bronco in 1978. The new Bronco was over two feet longer, nearly one foot wider, and 12-inches taller. Engine options moved away from the 6-cylinder/V8 options and now buyers were forced to choose between two V8 engine options built on the same platform with similar power outputs. The larger 400-cid engine was designed after the iconic 351C but with a taller deck which allowed for a longer stroke thus increasing its displacement while the 351M was essentially a destroked 400 which produced less torque. This made the 400-cid engine the better option and, collectively, these changes made the 1979 Ford Bronco the most popular model year ever produced.

Vicari Auctions is offering this awesome 1979 Ford Bronco Ranger XLT. Finished in Brown and Tan over a Tan multicolored interior, this is a nice original rust-free example from Colorado with only 94,984-miles on the clock. It features the aforementioned 400-cid engine paired with an automatic transmission. Other features include power steering, power brakes, cold factory air conditioning, cruise control, original upholstery, and a power rear window. For more information on this Bronco visit vicariauction.com.

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