Elite Dealer

1973 Ford Bronco

San Diego, California

$169,000

Video

Vehicle Details

Make

Ford

Model

Bronco

Year

1973

VIN

U15GLR65583

Body Type

Other

Description

1973 Ford Bronco 'Explorer'
Restored to Show Condition
Very Rare Option
Factory Special

1973 FORD BRONCO EXPLORER 4X4

Rare Factory Explorer Package | Deluxe Marti Report | Concours-Caliber Frame-Off Restoration
Offered at $169,000
An Extraordinary Example of One of America's Most Collectible Classic SUVs

Precious Metals Fine Motor Cars of San Diego is proud to present this absolutely stunning 1973 Ford Bronco Explorer, the product of an extensive three-year, frame-off restoration completed to exceptional standards. Combining documented factory rarity, remarkable Southwestern provenance, original Ford Bronco, and tasteful modern improvements, this Bronco represents a truly special opportunity for the discerning collector.

A RARE EXPLORER — DOCUMENTED BY FORD

Not all first-generation Broncos were created equal, and this is certainly no ordinary example.

According to its accompanying Deluxe Marti Report, just 2,949 1973 Bronco 4x4 Wagons were equipped with the desirable Explorer Package, with only 1,632 produced in this particular orange paint and trim combination.

Finished in its striking factory Orange, Ford paint code 5296-A, this Bronco showcases one of the Explorer's most recognizable and distinctive color combinations.
Unlike the more commonly encountered base-model Broncos, the Explorer offered distinctive appointments, including its special orange-themed interior, unique seat upholstery, decorative body-side moldings, additional trim, and Explorer identification.

The beautiful orange bench-seat upholstery, matching rear seating, factory-style interior appointments, exterior brightwork, and distinctive trim create an unmistakable period-correct appearance that separates this Bronco from ordinary restored examples.

Its Marti Report further confirms the original 302 cubic-inch V8, automatic transmission, power steering, Explorer Package, chrome bumpers, auxiliary fuel tank, swing-away spare tire carrier, and other desirable factory equipment.

THREE YEARS OF RESTORATION EXCELLENCE

This Bronco underwent a comprehensive, three-year, frame-off restoration with meticulous attention to fit, finish, craftsmanship, and mechanical presentation.
The beautiful Orange exterior, contrasting Wimbledon White-style removable hardtop, brilliant chrome trim, and exceptionally detailed engine and chassis presentation reflect the tremendous effort invested in its transformation.

Equally important, This Bronco was built form an Original Surviving example with many original components, preserving the authentic foundation collectors increasingly seek.
Originally ordered through Ford's Phoenix, Arizona, district sales office and sold new by Richardson Ford Sales in Albuquerque, New Mexico, this Bronco benefits from its documented Southwestern origins and is represented as a solid, rust-free example. When purchased by its Collector and Restorer it underwent a fresh restoration by Beach City Broncos of San Diego, CA

For knowledgeable collectors, original Broncos and documented provenance are meaningful distinctions that cannot simply be duplicated.

CLASSIC AUTHENTICITY — MODERN DRIVING ENJOYMENT

Beneath its vintage appearance is the legendary 302 V8 paired with an automatic transmission and four-wheel drive. Factory power steering is complemented by upgraded power front disc brakes, air conditioning, improved suspension, a tasteful 2.5-inch lift, and custom wheels wrapped in aggressive all-terrain tires.

These carefully selected enhancements provide a more comfortable, confident driving experience while preserving the unmistakable character and personality of the original Bronco. The result is a remarkable combination of vintage collector appeal, modern convenience, and genuine usability.

WHY THE EXPLORER IS DIFFERENT

First-generation Broncos have become highly sought-after collectibles, but the market increasingly distinguishes between ordinary restored examples and exceptional vehicles with documented history, distinctive factory equipment, and superior restoration quality.

The Explorer Package adds another dimension of desirability through its limited production, special interior, exterior appointments, and recognizable identity.
With fewer than 3,000 originally equipped with the Explorer Package in 1973, and an unknown number surviving today, authentic, documented examples are an uncommon find. Locating one with this combination, bodywork, rare factory colors, and a comprehensive restoration is considerably more challenging.

For the serious collector, that distinction matters.

THE UPPER COLLECTOR MARKET

Recent premium Bronco auction results demonstrate the significant values exceptional first-generation examples can command.

At Barrett-Jackson's January 2026 Scottsdale auction, restored and customized 1973 Broncos achieved $143,000, $170,500, and $203,500, demonstrating that top-tier examples can reach and exceed this Bronco's asking price.

Although these vehicles differ in specifications and restoration approaches, they establish an important market reference for the premium end of the first-generation Bronco segment.

At $169,000, this Explorer is positioned for the buyer who values more than restoration alone: documented rarity, authentic factory identity, original bodywork, exceptional presentation, and a carefully considered combination of originality and drivability.

AN OPPORTUNITY for the DISCERNING COLLECTOR or ENTHUSIAST

With its extraordinary presentation, distinctive factory Explorer heritage, documented Marti Report, Southwestern origins, and extensive restoration, this 1973 Bronco checks many of the boxes serious collectors look for with an investment grade potential.

While future appreciation can never be guaranteed, its limited original production, enduring popularity, and increasingly difficult-to-replicate combination of attributes provide a compelling long-term ownership proposition.

There are many restored Broncos available. Far fewer offer the history, identity, craftsmanship, and distinctive character of this exceptional Explorer.

Offered exclusively by Precious Metals Fine Motor Cars of San Diego.

$169,000 | www.pmautos.com

Classic Ford Bronco Buyer's Guide

Full guide

Tom Ramirez

Corvette

1966–1996

~6 min read

Updated Apr 2026

Definitive buyer's guide for classic Ford Bronco 1966-1996. Early Bronco 1966-1977 and Big Bronco 1978-1996 generations, frame and tub rust, 289/302 V8 identification, current market pricing.

This guide covers

✓ 10-point inspection checklist

✓ Common issues & what to avoid

✓ In-person inspection guide

✓ Market pricing by year & condition

✓ 5 FAQs answered

✓ History & fun facts

Read the Full Bronco Buyer's Guide

Ford Bronco Market Overview

Based on 107 Ford Bronco listings currently on ClassicCarsArena.com

107

Listed Now

$63,937

Avg. Asking Price

1966–1996

Year Range

Price Position on Our Site - Above Average

This car: $169,000

Low: $5,000 High: $274,995

Transmission Distribution

Automatic 55%

Manual 31%

Condition Distribution

Excellent 16%

Good 10%

Fair 2%

Data from ClassicCarsArena.com listings Browse all 107 listings →

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Classic Ford Bronco Buyer's Guide

The Ford Bronco has lived through five distinct platform generations across thirty years of production, but the classic Bronco market splits cleanly into two eras: the "Early Bronco" (1966-1977) and the "Big Bronco" (1978-1996). The first generation has become the single fastest-appreciating American collector vehicle of the past decade, with documented original examples now trading for sums that rival muscle-car territory. I've spent two decades chronicling Ford's SUV history, and the build sheet tells the real story on every Bronco, what was originally optional, what was dealer-installed, and what has been added during the car's lifetime. This guide covers what separates a documented original Early Bronco from a creative "restomod" build sold as factory-original.

What to Check Before Buying

✓

Order Marti Report for any 1967+ Bronco over $30K , Marti Auto Works $25. Confirms original engine, transmission, axle, paint, options, dealer destination.

✓

Cross-reference against Bronco Driver registry , Marque registry maintains records of known-original and known-restored cars. Identifies modifications.

✓

Inspect frame body mount points (Early Broncos) , Six per side. Probe with screwdriver. Solid steel resists; rotten metal flakes. Replacement = $8,000-$18,000.

✓

Examine rear frame cross-member , Common rust point on Early Broncos. Critical for trailer towing capacity and chassis integrity.

✓

Lift rubber mats and check floor pans , Both driver and passenger sides, front and rear. Universal rust point on Early Broncos.

✓

Verify uncut tub vs cut-and-modified , Original sheet metal has factory spot welds and seams. Modified sheet metal has hand-welded joints. Uncut tubs add 25-50% premium.

✓

Cross-reference VIN engine code with block casting , 8th digit of VIN (1968+) = engine code. Block casting numbers verify Windsor 289/302 originality.

✓

Verify Dana axle casting numbers , Dana 30 (1966-1971) and Dana 44 (1972-1977) front axles. Original units add value when verified factory-installed.

✓

Check rear cargo area floor (Early Broncos) , Lift rear seat or storage compartment. Common rust point invisible from outside.

✓

Test all electrical and 4WD engagement , Hubs, transfer case, and 4WD selector should engage cleanly. Failed components on Big Bronco era cost real money to repair.

Common Issues

Early Bronco rust is the structural killer for any 1966-1977 Bronco that lived in salt-belt climates. The frame rusts at the body mount points and the rear cross-member; the body tub rusts at the rocker panels, the floor pans (especially the rear cargo area floor), the lower fenders behind the front wheels, the tailgate hinges, and the cowl seam where the windshield base meets the firewall. Cars described as "uncut, rust-free" with original tubs are increasingly rare and command significant premium pricing. Mechanically, the Early Bronco's engine options are simple. The 170 inline-six (1966-1969), 200 inline-six (1970-1977), 289 V8 (1966-1968), and 302 V8 (1969-1977) are all bulletproof when maintained. The Dana 30 front axle (1966-1971) and Dana 44 front axle (1972-1977) are robust; the Ford 9-inch rear axle is essentially indestructible. The Toploader 3-speed manual transmission is durable; the C4 automatic (1973+) is similarly reliable. Common issues include worn kingpins on Dana 30 axles, leaking transfer case seals, and tired carburetor settings. Big Bronco (1978-1996) issues are different. The 1978-1979 Big Broncos used the Bronco-specific frame; 1980+ Big Broncos shared the F-150 platform. Rust patterns shifted to the rear quarter panels, the cab corners (lower section behind the rear doors), the rear wheel arches, and the tailgate. Mechanically, the 351M, 400, 460, 302, 351W, and 5.8L V8 engines are all robust. Common issues include failed fuel pumps (1980-1989 cars used in-tank pumps that fail expensively), TFI ignition modules, and worn front axle u-joints. Electrical issues vary by generation. Early Broncos have brittle 50+ year-old wiring; Big Broncos have more sophisticated electrical systems prone to module failures.

What to Look For

Marti Auto Works build sheets are the gold-standard documentation for any 1967-and-later Bronco. The build sheet ($25 for basic, more for elite reports) confirms the original equipment of the car: engine code, transmission code, axle ratio, paint code, options, and dealer destination. For any Early Bronco priced over $30,000, the Marti Report is mandatory, too many cars on the market wear emblems and equipment that wasn't original to the car. Frame inspection is the first non-negotiable for Early Broncos. The frame rusts at the body mount points (six per side on Early Broncos) and at the rear cross-member. Lift the body off the frame with a flashlight and probe rusty areas with a screwdriver. Solid steel resists; rotten metal flakes. Frame replacement is a serious undertaking, $8,000-$18,000 for proper professional work. Tub inspection is the second non-negotiable. The Early Bronco body tub is a single welded steel structure that becomes increasingly difficult to repair properly as rust progresses. Inspect the floor pans (lift the rubber mats), the rocker panels (under the doors), the rear cargo area floor (lift the rear seat or storage compartment), the cab corners, and the tailgate hinge area. Cars described as "uncut tubs" with original sheet metal are the gold standard. Engine and drivetrain verification: cross-reference the VIN engine code (eighth digit, on 1968+ cars) with the engine block casting number. The Early Bronco 289 (1966-1968) and 302 (1969-1977) Windsor V8s have specific casting numbers that verify originality. The 170 and 200 inline-sixes are similarly identifiable. Original Dana axles have specific casting numbers and stampings that verify factory installation. Document the build sheet against the car. Cross-reference against the marque registry, the Bronco Driver registry maintains records of known-original cars and known-restored cars. The build sheet tells the real story.

Price Guide

Early Bronco (1966-1977) values have appreciated dramatically over the past decade. Driver-quality 1966-1969 cars (the original 'short' Bronco) run $45,000-$80,000 today. 1970-1977 cars run $35,000-$70,000 in driver condition. Documented original-paint, low-mileage examples can reach $95,000-$150,000+. Documented uncut original tubs in survivor condition are the ultimate Early Bronco, these cars trade for $80,000-$220,000 depending on year, condition, and equipment. The 1966 launch year cars are the most desirable, with documented original 1966 cars approaching $200,000+ when fully verified. LS-swapped restomod Early Broncos (with modern drivetrains, modern brakes, modern interior) run $80,000-$220,000 depending on quality of build. Frame-up restomod builds from recognized specialists (Gateway, Velocity, Maxlider, Icon) run $200,000-$500,000+. Big Bronco (1978-1996) pricing is dramatically more affordable. Driver-quality 1978-1979 cars run $22,000-$42,000. 1980-1989 cars run $15,000-$32,000. 1990-1996 cars run $12,000-$28,000. The 1990s OJ Simpson-era white Broncos have appreciated due to pop-culture interest, clean white 1990-1996 Broncos run $22,000-$45,000. Project Early Broncos (running but rough) start around $15,000-$28,000. Stripped roller candidates can be had for $8,000-$20,000, but rust restoration on a Bronco typically runs $30,000-$70,000 in body and frame work alone before paint.

Did You Know?

The 1966 Ford Bronco was developed under chief engineer Paul Axelrad as a direct response to the original Jeep CJ. Ford Product Planning identified an unmet market for a compact, capable, on-road-and-off-road vehicle that would appeal to suburban families as well as serious off-roaders. The original concept was approved by Lee Iacocca (then Vice President of Ford Motor Company) in 1963, and the car launched in August 1965 as a 1966 model. Only 4,090 Roadster variants (Bronco model U13) were built in 1966, making them among the rarest Early Bronco variants. The U13 Roadster had no roof and no doors. The Half-Cab Pickup was a separate body style (model U14) with a fixed forward roof and open rear cargo bed. Documented Roadster examples in survivor condition trade for $80,000-$150,000+ today. The Bronco was discontinued in 1996 after 30 years of continuous production, replaced by the four-door Ford Expedition for the 1997 model year. Ford reintroduced the Bronco nameplate for the 2021 model year on an entirely new platform, but the 1966-1996 classic Broncos remain a separate market segment with no direct connection to the new vehicles. I've spent two decades chronicling Ford's SUV history, and the original Bronco's combination of compact dimensions, rugged engineering, and timeless styling explain why these cars have become the fastest-appreciating American collector vehicles of the past decade.