Image of 1968 Ford Bronco, sourced from www.gatewaybronco.com , Image Link.

The Unbridled Spirit of the 1968 Ford Bronco

The 1968 Ford Bronco gallops through the annals of automotive history with a rugged charm and an adventurous spirit. Born in an era of innovation and exploration, the Bronco was Ford's foray into the compact SUV market, a segment that was just beginning to show its potential. With its go-anywhere capability and versatile design, the Bronco quickly became an emblem of American resilience and ingenuity. A unique fact that enthusiasts often relish is that the '68 model year marked the introduction of significant powertrain upgrades, making it a standout in the early Bronco lineage.

Design and Innovation

The exterior of the 1968 Ford Bronco is a testament to functional design, with its boxy silhouette and flat glass panels exuding a no-nonsense aesthetic. The interior, while spartan by today's standards, was fashioned with durable materials meant to withstand the rigors of both city driving and off-road escapades. Technologically, it featured advancements like an optional power take-off, a precursor to modern auxiliary power options. The color palette ranged from subdued to vibrant, with Poppy Red and Lunar Green catching the eyes of many enthusiasts. Among the body styles, the roadster, sports utility, and wagon, it was the wagon variant that became iconic, offering a balance of practicality and style.

Historical Significance

The '68 Bronco's impact on automotive design was profound; it helped cement the idea that a vehicle could be both utilitarian and enjoyable to drive. Its part-time four-wheel-drive system set it apart from many contemporaries and laid groundwork for future SUVs. The Bronco's lasting influence is evident in the continued popularity of compact SUVs that prioritize both performance and versatility.

Performance and Handling

Under the hood, the 1968 Ford Bronco was no slouch. Equipped with a 289 cubic inch V8 engine, it delivered ample power for its time. While top speed and acceleration figures may seem modest by modern standards, with 0-60 mph times hovering around the 11-second mark, it was the vehicle's ability to conquer diverse terrains that truly defined its performance. Handling was straightforward and robust, capable of absorbing bumps and navigating windy trails with poise. Drivers often recall the visceral experience—the throaty roar of the engine and the sense of connection with the landscape as they navigated through uncharted territories.

Ownership Experience

The 1968 Bronco was as versatile as its owners' needs, serving as a daily driver, a weekend warrior on trails, or even a show car. Its reliability was commendable, and when repairs were necessary, they were generally straightforward due to the Bronco's simple design and widespread availability of parts. This accessibility made it a favorite among DIY enthusiasts.

Fun Facts

This rugged vehicle boasts a few fun facts: some Broncos were customized by Carroll Shelby, adding a layer of muscle car pedigree to its off-road prowess. While not known for breaking speed records, the Bronco has been a consistent sales performer and has completed remarkable endurance challenges. Criticisms typically centered around its less-than-spacious rear seating and fuel economy, but these were often overlooked in favor of its charm and capability.

Collector's Information

Today, a well-preserved 1968 Ford Bronco can fetch a wide range in value, often seen between $30,000 to $100,000 depending on condition, originality, and provenance. With production numbers estimated in the tens of thousands for that year, they are relatively rare but still accessible for serious collectors. The market trend shows an appreciation in value, especially for models that remain close to their original specifications.

Conclusion

The 1968 Ford Bronco stands as a monument to American automotive culture—a testament to durability, adaptability, and sheer enjoyment. It's more than just a vehicle; it's a symbol of freedom and exploration that continues to capture the hearts of enthusiasts around the world. Whether on the open road or traversing rocky paths, the spirit of the '68 Bronco endures as an enduring legacy of America's adventurous spirit.

1968 Ford Bronco Body Cushion. 2-5/16" O.D., 15/16" I.D., 3/4" Thick. Each-BC 6Body Cushion. 2-5/16" O.D., 15/16" I.D., 3/4" Thick. Each

1968 Ford Bronco Body Cushion. 2-9/16" O.D., 3/4" I.D., 13/16" Thick. Each-BC 6-ABody Cushion. 2-9/16" O.D., 3/4" I.D., 13/16" Thick. Each

1968 Ford Bronco Door Seals. Fits either side. 83-1/2" long. Pair-LM 11-BDoor Seals. Fits either side. 83-1/2" long. Pair

1968 Ford Bronco Molded Roof Rail Seals. Pair R&L-RR 3310Molded Roof Rail Seals. Pair R&L

1968 Ford Bronco Vulcanized Windshield Seal-VWS 3390Vulcanized Windshield Seal. For models without chrome garnish on windshield. Each

1968 Ford Bronco Spare Tire Hold Down Nut. 3/8- 16 thread size-WF 3504Spare Tire Hold Down Nut. 3/8- 16 thread size. Replaces OEM #B9AZ-1462-A. Each