Many SUVs can begin to look tired and worn when they have a few years behind them due to the life they were designed to live. This 1982 Ford Bronco XLT hasn’t suffered as much as some and is a rust-free survivor with 70,000 miles on its odometer. Its most pressing need is a new home, with the seller listing it here on eBay in Concord, California. Subdued bidding has pushed the price to $9,800 in a No Reserve auction.

Ford’s Third Generation Bronco hit the showroom for the 1980 model year. The company followed the prevailing market trend because while the new model shared its predecessor’s wheelbase and most other major dimensions, much work went into reducing weight to improve performance and economy. However, the weight loss resulted in compromised frame strength in early vehicles, with Ford addressing that weakness for the 1982 model year. The original owner ordered this Bronco XLT in a two-tone combination of Fawn and Dark Fawn Metallic. These are typical shades from the period, and while many paint colors from the 1980s haven’t aged well, these wouldn’t look out of place on a modern vehicle. The paint is in good condition, with only minor flaws and imperfections. It is acceptable for a survivor, but performing a refresh is an option that some might consider. The panels are straight, but it is the fact this classic has spent its life in California that could be the ace up its sleeve. The seller provides several underside shots that reveal dry surface corrosion but no evidence of penetrating rust. The tinted glass has some rub marks, but, once again, its condition is in keeping with its survivor status. A couple of trim pieces have minor damage, but they are acceptable for a vehicle of this caliber.

This Bronco’s interior makes a positive impression, with flaws few and far between. The dash plastic to the left of the gauge fascia looks cracked, and the front carpet is worn and faded. However, the back carpet suffers no such problems, the upholstered surfaces look excellent, and the faux woodgrain shows no evidence of deterioration. An aftermarket radio/cassette player occupies the spot normally reserved for the factory unit, but it appears to be the only addition or modification. It isn’t overflowing with luxury features by modern standards, but the winning bidder will welcome air conditioning, cruise control, and a power rear window.

Ford launched the Third Generation Bronco with the 351M V8 as an option but dropped that motor in 1982 in favor of the 351ci Windsor powerplant. The seller supplies no engine photos, but the VIN confirms this numbers-matching Bronco houses the Windsor V8 under the hood. It sends 156hp to the road via a four-speed manual transmission, a dual-range transfer case, and manual locking hubs on the front axle. Power and torque figures were about what many expected during this period, with enough of both to use the hitch receiver fitted to this vehicle effectively. The seller claims it has a genuine 70,000 miles on its odometer but doesn’t mention verifying evidence. However, it runs and drives extremely well, with no rattles or odd noises. They include an embedded video in their listing, which confirms the motor runs as smooth as silk.

This 1982 Bronco XLT isn’t perfect, but that could be its greatest strength. Any new scratch or mark is unlikely to cause the new owner the trauma they might experience if they spent over $45,000 on a shiny new model. It is a rock-solid classic in sound mechanical health, ready to launch a new owner on a life of adventure. It has only received six bids, and with No Reserve in play, recent results suggest the price should land at around $16,000. However, the subdued action could result in a significantly lower figure when the hammer falls. That might make monitoring this auction worthwhile.