Featured on AutoHunter, the online auction platform driven by ClassicCars.com, is this 1968 Ford Bronco 289 3-Speed.
According to data from Hagerty that was published in 2020, an “Average” (good-condition) first-generation Ford Bronco at the time was valued at around $40,000, but author Greg Ingold also stated that near-perfect V8 examples could go for easily double that figure. Needless to say, it takes deep pockets to get into the vintage Bronco game. And that’s based on four-year-old data. How’s the market in 2024?
![](https://i0.wp.com/shacklemedia.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/autohunter-spotlight-1968-ford-bronco-289.jpg?resize=640%2C360&ssl=1)
Perhaps you are looking to get into the early Bronco game at a more reasonable price – even if it means starting with a truck that is more of a project. If so, you are in luck. Today’s featured Bronco has enough “character” to justify a price that will likely be less than a concours-level standard. There are a few rust spots around the body, and a sizeable scratch can be seen on the driver side rear quarter panel in the photos. But luckily, the truck is still a solid running and driving vehicle with “good bones.” It is being listed via a dealer in Poplar Bluff, Missouri, and the auction ends next Tuesday.
![](https://i0.wp.com/shacklemedia.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/autohunter-spotlight-1968-ford-bronco-289-1.jpg?resize=640%2C360&ssl=1)
Versatility was the name of the game for the early Broncos from 1966 through 1977. This one came optioned with a removable hardtop, a dual-range transfer case, and manual locking hubs. Thanks to a short wheelbase and narrow dimensions, its go-anywhere capability is elevated above even the newest-generation Bronco. (For comparison, the new Bronco is about two feet longer and six inches wider when compared to the first-generation).
![](https://i0.wp.com/shacklemedia.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/autohunter-spotlight-1968-ford-bronco-289-2.jpg?resize=640%2C360&ssl=1)
Power for this sport-utility comes from a 289cid V8 backed by a three-speed manual transmission. The spark plugs and coil have been replaced. The vehicle is shown two-minute video on the seller’s YouTube channel featuring the exterior, interior, and some driving scenes.
![](https://i0.wp.com/shacklemedia.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/autohunter-spotlight-1968-ford-bronco-289-3.jpg?resize=640%2C360&ssl=1)
While not perfect, this Bronco offers a compelling argument for buying a classic vehicle that you can actually drive and enjoy. All-too-frequently, collectors acquire low-mileage pristine vehicles that spend the rest of their lives under covers and connected to battery tenders. With this Bronco, there are options: Take the restoration to a show-quality final form, or drive it and enjoy it as-is. It would look great tackling some rugged back roads.
The auction for this 1968 Ford Bronco 289 3-Speed ends Tuesday, January 16, 2023 at 12:45 p.m. (MST)
Visit the AutoHunter listing for more information and photo gallery
Source: www.classiccars.com