This 1986 Ford Bronco II Eddie Bauer 4x4 represents a classic take on the SUV that's unlike anything you see on the road these days. It's the precursor to today's ultra-popular Explorer and packs a lot of surefootedness into a relatively compact package. It has provided decades of faithful service already and will arrive at its next home with a stack of maintenance records on board to confirm that a substantial investment has gone into keeping it road-ready well into the future.
Wearing the same dark yellow and desert tan color scheme it began life with, this Bronco II packs plenty of curb appeal - it cuts a distinctively likeable presence. Not having seen the inside of a restoration shop over the course of its considerable lifetime, you can see some evidence of its dutiful performance, but this compact workhorse still radiates vitality. When Ford released this model some 40 years ago, its objective was to create a downsized version of its ultra-popular Bronco and the aesthetic resemblance is unmistakable. This Bronco II shares a squared off appearance with its bigger brother and the two were even manufactured at the same Louisville, Kentucky plant. After all this time, its exterior alignment remains on point, with consistent body lines and doors and hood that open and shut smoothly. You'll likely notice that, despite its seemingly modest size, this Bronco II features an impressive amount of ground clearance which really comes in handy when off-roading - a pursuit it's very well equipped for.
The tan interior shows moderate wear - this car has been in service for nearly four decades after all - but overall, it's in pretty darned good shape. Cloth upholstery is often praised for its durability, and it's a trait that proves out here - the pair of front buckets and the rear bench seat are both still more than accommodating. Farther forward, you'll find no cracks or warping on the dash area, where an aftermarket AM/FM/cassette stereo stands ready to provide you with a period appropriate audio experience. Additional comfort and convenience amenities include power windows, cruise control and air conditioning that's up to the challenge of keeping you comfortable on even warmer days. This is a vehicle that offers a surprising amount of interior room especially when you fold down its rear seat, which is an easy procedure.
This compact SUV's road-readiness will become evident right away. Its fuel injected 2.9-liter V6 fires up promptly and provides strong acceleration - and the engine pairs with a 4-speed automatic transmission whose shifts are surprisingly smooth. Everything appears to be in good order beneath the hood and a simple steam cleaning will have the engine compartment looking downright sharp. Should you find yourself with an urge to veer off the asphalt and onto rougher terrain, the 4-wheel drive feature is in good working condition and the lever that activates it stands within easy reach on the transmission tunnel. Smooth power steering makes for low-effort navigation while 4-wheel power brakes with discs up front bring this Bronco II's set of 15"" stock Ford wheels wearing Goodyear Wrangler radials to dependable stops.
If you're searching for a vintage SUV with plenty of old school charm, and undeniable off-road capability, you should definitely put this 1986 Ford Bronco II Eddie Bauer 4x4 on your must-see list. Call today!
