Some older off-roaders and SUVs present so superbly that the idea of them wading through mud and slime is virtually unthinkable. Such is the case with this 1986 Ford Bronco XLT. The seller has spent considerable time and money on this gem, making it appear like it recently rolled off a showroom floor. It seems to need nothing, and the forty bids submitted suggest people like what they see. The seller listed it here on eBay in Ashland, Kentucky. The price has raced to $22,156, which is short of the reserve.

The seller is this Bronco’s second owner, and they hold a substantial collection of documentation tracing its history. It includes information and invoices for the recent work, including the repaint in the attractive combination of Dark Canyon Red and Colonial White. They added four coats of clear that give the Ford a permanent “wet” appearance. The results were worth the effort because the vehicle presents in as-new condition. The paint and panels look flawless, with no bumps, bruises, or other imperfections. The chrome and trim sparkle impressively, while the shiny new Mickey Thompson alloy wheels and BF Goodrich All Terrain tires add a sense of purpose and should improve the Bronco’s abilities when the going becomes muddy or slippery. The glass is flawless, and this is unsurprising. The windshield is new, the seller replaced all window and door seals, and the glass wears a 5% tint to help cool occupants on hot days. I hesitate to use the term perfect, but the condition should draw crowds and complements wherever this Bronco ventures.

If the exterior impresses you, this Bronco’s interior will knock your sox off! It features predominantly Red cloth and vinyl trim that is spotless. There is no wear or stains on the seats or carpet, with the back seat and cargo areas, particularly impressive. The dash, pad, and other plastic components are free from damage, as is the faux woodgrain. The seller recently replaced almost every air conditioning component, meaning the system provides an Arctic blast when cranked to the max. They replaced three power window motors and door lock plungers and installed a Pioneer radio/CD player and matching speakers. Apart from A/C, I’m sure you’ve realized the original owner specified power operation for the windows and locks. Throw in cruise control and molded mats to protect the spotless carpet, and the new owner will want for nothing.

The Bronco tips the scales at 4,717 lbs, which presents the danger that performance could be underwhelming with the wrong engine under the hood. Ford offered a selection of capable V8s, but the original owner went straight to the top drawer by selecting the 5.8-liter “HO” brute. It churns out 210hp and 305 ft/lbs of torque. There’s no point in having mountains of power and torque if they can’t hit the ground effectively. Therefore, the three-speed automatic transmission, dual-range transfer case, power steering, and power brakes should let this XLT cope with virtually anything thrown at it. When splashing the cash on this classic, the seller didn’t limit themselves to cosmetic matters. It received a new fuel pump, lines, sender unit, and filter. They rounded out the fuel system refresh with a rebuild of the original carburetor. They added a new starter, alternator, plugs, plug wires, distributor cap, and rotor. There is a new radiator, hoses, thermostat, and fan clutch. The list keeps going but includes shocks, brake rotors, pads, shoes, drums, and wheel bearings. It is worth noting that whether we’re talking about the mechanical, interior, or panel and paint work performed by the seller, it has all occurred within the last 3,000 miles. The Bronco runs and drives well, ready to allow its new owner to commune with Mother Nature or cruise effortlessly on the open road.

This 1986 Bronco XLT has the “wow” factor, making it easy to see why it has generated so much interest. It would suit a meticulous buyer unwilling to compromise, while its equipment level means they will make every trip in total comfort. I expect the bidding to top $30,000 before the auction ends, which isn’t cheap for a vehicle of this type and age. However, that deserves qualification. Regardless of condition, the value of Broncos of this type has climbed consistently recently. That means if the new owner treats it respectfully, they will be slipping behind the wheel of an appreciating asset. A base model 2023 Bronco has a sticker price of $34,100 but would require extra options (and money) to match the equipment levels of the ’86 model. It will be more refined than the older model but won’t be an appreciating asset. Its value will undoubtedly drop considerably in the first three years, meaning that by 2026, a three-year-old Bronco could be worth substantially less than one with four decades under its belt. If you are searching for a comfortable SUV, that factor could be the tipping point allowing you to bid on this beauty. It is undoubtedly a point to ponder.