What years is the first-generation (early) Bronco?

"Early Bronco" and "first-generation Bronco" mean the same truck: the compact 1966 to 1977 model with its own chassis, a 92-inch wheelbase and an overall length of about 151.5 inches. The body stayed essentially the same for the whole run. The mechanical parts did not, which is why the model year matters when you shop.

Year by year

• 1966: launch, in roadster, half cab and wagon bodies. The base engine was a 170 cubic inch six rated at about 105 hp. A 289 V8 rated at 200 hp was added in March 1966.
• 1967: Sport option package and backup lights.
• 1968: side marker lamps. Last year for the roadster.
• 1969: the V8 grows from 289 to 302 cubic inches.
• 1970: the Sport becomes a model of its own.
• 1971: Dana 44 front axle replaces the Dana 30. Baja Bronco package introduced.
• 1972: Ranger trim arrives. Last year for the half cab.
• 1973: a three-speed automatic is offered for the first time, and a 200 cubic inch six replaces the 170. Wagon only from here on.
• 1976: front disc brakes.
• 1977: final year. Fuel filler doors replace the exposed caps.

The final year has its own page, the 1977 Bronco, and the first-generation timeline walks through the rest.

How many were built

Published counts differ. The most widely quoted series runs from 13,125 (1975) to 25,824 (1974), with 23,776 in the launch year and 14,546 in the last. Another, used in club histories, gives 18,200 for 1966 and 30,700 for 1977. Either way the totals are small next to the second generation, which sold 104,038 in 1979 alone, and that is one reason early Broncos cost what they do.

What came next

The 1978 Bronco was a different vehicle: a full-size truck on a 104-inch wheelbase with V8 power only. It lasted two model years before the 1980 redesign. The 1978 redesign story explains the change, and the Bronco history page covers every generation through 1996.

If you are shopping, the best year early Bronco to buy narrows the choice.