For Sale: 1990 Ford Bronco II Eddie Bauer in Lithia Springs, Georgia

Ford's Bronco II was the gateway to today's small SUVs, the precursor to the Explorer, and the first small 4x4 to really find an American audience. Based on the smaller Ranger platform, this 1990 Ford Bronco II Eddie Bauer made SUVs a part of the suburban landscape in a very permanent way.

It's been a long time since we've seen a BII this nice. With the upscale Eddie Bauer trim (Eddie Bauer is an outdoor outfitter, something that everyone seems to have forgotten with the success of Ford's cross-marketing) it remains very handsome for being nearly 30 years old. The two tone metallic taupe and tan combination is subtle yet sophisticated, giving the small 4x4 a big dose of class. The squared-off lines have aged well and while it's instantly recognizable, few people will realize how affordable it is today. This one has lived in Georgia all its life so there's no rust issues and with only 71,662 original miles, it's got a lot of life left in it. Is it perfect? No, of course not. But we'll wager you'll look high and low to find a nicer one. It has never been hit, damaged, or repainted, and obviously someone loved it. The chrome bumpers shine up well and with a big rear-mounted spare tire carrier, it remains rugged-looking without seeming crude. Add on running boards make it easy to climb in and there's a hitch out back for pulling your toys.

The Eddie Bauer upgrade is most evident inside, where you'll find comfortable high-back bucket seats wrapped in comfortable striped fabric. Matching tan carpets and monogrammed floor mats add to the rather luxurious feeling and as the top-of-the-line model, everything was standard. That means you get things like cold A/C, power windows and locks, cruise control, a rear defroster, and even a tilt steering column. It sure doesn't look like 30 years' worth of use in there, with seats that are still firm and bright, clear gauges that cover all the engine vitals. There's also a newer AM/FM/cassette stereo that's an upgrade over the Ford unit. Plastic parts like the dash pad and door panels are simply outstanding and it looks like nobody's' ever been in the split rear bench seat. There's also reasonable cargo space in back, including a retractable cover to keep your stuff out of sight.

Ford's venerable "Cologne" 2.9 liter V6 was the only engine you could get in a Bronco II, and it does its job rather well. Torquey and legendary for its durability, it pulls the 4x4 around with enthusiasm and does its job without a lot of fuss. It has been properly maintained throughout its life and the clean engine bay shows an owner who cared about keeping it in top shape. Turn the key and factory EFI ensures that it fires up fast and idles well, and on the fly the 4-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly. Obviously 4-wheel-drive is part of the package, with a no-fuss automatic system that engages with the touch of a button on the dash and unlike most of today's small SUVs, it includes a low range for really tough going. It's quite clean underneath with no signs of rot from driving in the snow and ride quality is quite good for a small 4x4. Pretty aluminum wheels were standard equipment and carry 215/75/15 blackwall radials with lots of life left in them.

These remain neat trucks that you don't see every day. If you like a little luxury with your off-road fun, the Bronco II delivers a good helping of both. Call today!