• Seller: Luther P owell
• Location: Coeur d’Alene, Idaho
• Mileage: 109,600 Shown
• Chassis #: 1FMDU15F0BLA61225
• Title Status: Clean
• Engine: 302 V8
• Transmission: 4-Speed Manual

Purchasing a classic that recently emerged from hibernation is sometimes a gamble, but that isn’t the case with this 1981 Ford Bronco 4×4 Free Wheeling. The current owner worked through a meticulous revival process that will allow the winning bidder to slip behind the wheel of a classic that could effortlessly take them from coast to coast. It carries the hallmarks of a vehicle that has been treated respectfully since Day One and is ready to find a new home. Therefore, the owner has listed this Bronco with us at Barn Finds Auctions.

Ford released its Third Generation Bronco for the 1980 model year, and while it didn’t sell in the numbers experienced by its predecessor, it was still warmly embraced by the buying public. This Bronco emerged in 1981, and the first owner scored a home run with its paint and trim combination. Raven Black is a striking color, but combined with the multi-hued stripes and graphics that formed the foundation of the Free Wheeling package, it produced a result that will quickly turn heads. This classic presents exceptionally well for a 43-year-old survivor with tasteful restoration cues. The paint retains a healthy shine, and the vinyl looks crisp and sharp. The top seems to be in good shape for its age. For those who want a brand-new look, a simple coating of matte black spray would crisp things up. The Top is one of this Bronco’s highlights because it is easy to remove for those who crave wind-in-the-hair motoring. The panels are straight as an arrow, with minimal evidence of normal touch-ups over the years. The seals and weatherstripping are in good order, meaning water and mud won’t find their way inside this classic. The current owner states that this Bronco has always been garage-kept, and it shows. It is worth scrolling through the image gallery at the bottom of this article because you will be amazed by how clean this Ford’s underside is. There is no evidence of significant surface corrosion or penetrating rust, meaning it is as solid as the day the first owner took delivery. The trim looks exceptional for a survivor of this vintage, the windshield is new, and the remaining glass is crystal clear.

The first owner ticked the “right” boxes when ordering this Bronco. They equipped it with Ford’s iconic 302ci V8, a four-speed manual transmission, a dual-range transfer case, and power-assisted steering and front disc brakes. The V8 produced 133hp and 222 ft/lbs of torque when it was new. Both figures were considered respectable in 1981, allowing this survivor to perform admirably in all circumstances. The current owner discovered this classic hibernating, pulling out all the stops during its revival. The engine received a full rebuild, with a new clutch installed during the reassembly. The winning bidder will also benefit from new brakes, an alternator, a starter, exhaust, shocks, fuel lines, and a fuel pump. The owner rebuilt the carburetor, performing other tasks to ensure this Bronco is in excellent mechanical health. The tires wrapped around the period-correct alloy wheels are almost new and should enhance the vehicle’s off-road abilities. The owner states that this Bronco runs and drives exceptionally well and that they wouldn’t hesitate to drive it anywhere. Therefore, the winning bidder could fly in and build a relationship with their new purchase as they drive it home.

There is no doubt that teaming Raven Black paint with a Red interior is a winning combination. That is what the new owner receives when they take delivery of this classic. The Bronco’s interior is in excellent condition for a vehicle of this type and age, with no significant wear or other problems. The seatcovers are spotless, and I agree with the owner’s assessment that the back seat may have never seen occupants. The vinyl mat set is a practical feature, providing easy clean-up after a day of venturing through mud and slime that might otherwise stain and spoil the carpet. The dash and pad are excellent, and the console adds a touch of practical luxury. The upgraded digital audio system features Bluetooth, USB, and auxiliary inputs, and a remote control for entertainment on the move. The first owner ordered this classic with air conditioning, but the compressor was removed during the vehicle’s revival. However, reinstating the system shouldn’t pose many challenges. The remaining features, gauges, and lights work as they should, and the Bronco comes with two sets of original keys.

Ford discontinued the Bronco badge in 1996, and many people lamented its passing. However, buyer demand saw the company revive the Bronco in 2021, and you can still walk into a Ford dealership and drive away in a new one today. However, you will pay dearly for the privilege, and you will then need to factor depreciation into the ownership experience. This 1981 Bronco, tastefully outfitted with the Free Wheeling edition stripe option, will cost you a fraction of the new model and, in many opinions, represents a styling cue lost in today’s world. It will also attract more attention; recent sales results confirm that values are climbing. Hmm, pay a small fortune for a depreciating asset or considerably less for what should be an excellent long-term investment. It seems a no-brainer, so this Bronco is worth serious consideration.

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