1966 Ford Bronco
First generation · Classic compact 4x4 1966–1977
The original compact, purpose-built off-roader that helped define the rugged-SUV idea — now a prized collectible.
Photo: “1966 Ford Bronco Sports Utility, front right, 09-07-2024.jpg” by MercurySable99 / Wikimedia Commons , licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 . Cropped to 16:9.
The 1966 model year
Overview
Ford introduced the Bronco for 1966 as a compact, purpose-built four-wheel-drive utility vehicle on its own short-wheelbase chassis, competing with the Jeep CJ and International Scout. Offered in open, half-cab, and wagon forms, it helped establish the rugged compact-SUV idea.
Specifications
- Body styles
- 2-door SUV
Year over year
What changed
- Launch year of the Bronco as a compact 4x4 on a dedicated platform.
- Offered in roadster, half-cab, and wagon body configurations.
Living with it
Reliability & ownership notes
- 1960s body-on-frame 4x4; rust and the condition of the four-wheel-drive hardware are the chief concerns on survivors.
Worth knowing
Notable
- The first-generation Bronco is a highly prized collector 4x4 today.
Sources
Other First generation years
Explore the Classic compact 4x4 generation → All First generation · Classic compact 4x4 years →