Ford Bronco Sport

Ford Bronco Sport

The 1966 Ford Bronco Sport represents a pivotal moment in American automotive history -- the creation of the recreational sport utility vehicle. While Jeep and International Harvester had long served the utilitarian 4x4 market, Ford recognized a growing demographic of buyers who wanted off-road capability with a measure of on-road civility. The Bronco Sport, with its V8 power and upgraded appointments, was Ford's answer.

The first-generation Bronco rode on a purpose-built 92-inch wheelbase chassis that was shorter and more maneuverable than the competition. The 302 cubic inch V8, producing 205 horsepower, was the performance engine option that transformed the Bronco from a capable but leisurely off-roader into a genuinely spirited performer. The engine's torque delivery was perfectly suited to both trail work and highway cruising.

The Sport package elevated the Bronco's interior from basic utilitarian to something approaching comfort. It included chrome bumpers, a padded dashboard, passenger-side sun visor, bucket seats, and various chrome trim pieces. While still Spartan by car standards, the Sport model acknowledged that many Bronco buyers would use their trucks as daily transportation.

The Bronco's 4WD system used a Dana 20 transfer case with part-time four-wheel drive engaged via a floor-mounted lever. The front axle was a Dana 30, while the rear employed a Dana 44 -- both proven units with excellent reputations for strength and serviceability. The manual locking front hubs required the driver to exit the vehicle to engage them, but they reduced drivetrain drag and improved fuel economy in two-wheel drive mode.

Suspension consisted of a solid front axle with coil springs and a live rear axle with leaf springs. This arrangement provided excellent articulation on rough terrain while maintaining acceptable on-road behavior. Ground clearance was generous, and the short overhangs allowed steep approach and departure angles.

The body was offered in three configurations: roadster (open), half-cab (sport utility), and wagon (fully enclosed). The Sport package was most commonly ordered on the wagon body, creating a vehicle that could serve as everything from a trail runner to a comfortable highway cruiser.

The first-generation Bronco remained in production from 1966 through 1977, and its reputation for ruggedness and simplicity has made it one of the most desirable vintage 4x4 vehicles. The recent reintroduction of the Bronco nameplate has only increased interest in the original.