1974 Ford Bronco Ranger �€" 302 V8, 4x4, Two-Tone Burnt Orange,
Soft Top Why This Car Is Special The first-generation Ford Bronco
ran from 1966 through 1977, and those early trucks have become some
of the most sought-after American four-wheel-drive vehicles on the
collector market. The reason is straightforward: they were
purpose-built, body-on-frame trucks with solid axles front and
rear, a short 92-inch wheelbase that made them genuinely capable
off-road, and enough factory trim options to give buyers real
choices. Ford produced the first-gen Bronco in three body styles
�€" roadster, half-cab, and wagon �€" but by 1974, the wagon
configuration had become the dominant seller, and that's exactly
what this truck is. The 1974 model year is particularly interesting
from a drivetrain standpoint. The 302 cubic inch V8 �€" the same
engine Ford had been developing and refining since 1968 �€" was the
go-to engine choice for buyers who wanted a capable street and
trail performer without the added weight and fuel consumption of
the larger 360. By 1974, Ford had begun fitting emissions controls
across the lineup in response to federal regulations, but the 302
remained a proven and parts-friendly small-block that owners and
mechanics have understood for decades. This particular 1974 Ford
Bronco Ranger carries that 302, backed by a C4 three-speed
automatic and a Dana 20 transfer case �€" a combination that has
logged millions of miles in trucks just like this one. What
separates this truck from a basic Bronco Sport is the Ranger trim
designation. The Bronco Ranger was Ford's upper-level package for
the first-gen truck, bringing a more finished interior and exterior
compared to the base Sport trim. The dash badging visible in the
photos confirms the Ranger designation, and the interior reflects
it �€" more on that below. This is the configuration serious
collectors and users look for when they want a first-gen that was
well-optioned from the factory rather than stripped down. The
two-tone Burnt Orange over white exterior is a period-correct color
combination that photographs well and reads as a complete,
intentional build rather than a tired work truck. Someone has put
real money and thought into this Bronco, with upgrades that add
utility without undoing its character. Features List 302 5.0L V8
Engine C4 3-Speed Automatic Transmission Part-Time 4-Wheel Drive
Dana 20 Transfer Case Power Steering Dual Exhaust Superlift Shocks
Two-Tone Burnt Orange and White Paint Soft Top Black Steel Wheels
Goodyear Wrangler Tires Spare Tire Mounted Rear Bronco Ranger Tire
Cover Chrome Front and Rear Bumpers Chrome Side Trim Wood-Grain
Dash Trim Leather Bucket Seats (Tan) Rear Bench Seat (Tan)
Houndstooth Door Panels Ford Logo Floor Mats Pioneer Head Unit
(Upgraded) Upgraded Rear Speakers Roll Bar Installed Rear Locking
Storage Box Fire Extinguisher Mounted Mechanical Under the hood
sits Ford's 302 cubic inch V8 �€" 5.0 liters in modern terms �€"
wearing its factory-style blue valve covers and a round air cleaner
assembly. The 302 was introduced in 1968 and became one of Ford's
most versatile and reliable engines, used across the Mustang,
F-Series, and Bronco lineups. In the relatively light first-gen
Bronco, it provides adequate power for street driving and enough
low-end torque to handle trail work without complaint. Parts
availability for this engine is about as good as it gets for any
American V8 of this era. Power routes through a Ford C4 three-speed
automatic transmission, which was a common and practical pairing
for the 302 in truck applications. The C4 is a straightforward,
proven unit with a long service history in Ford vehicles. Behind
the C4 sits the Dana 20 transfer case, a two-speed unit that offers
a low range for off-road work. The Dana 20 was standard equipment
on the first-gen Bronco and has a solid reputation for durability.
The floor-mounted transfer case shifter is clearly visible in the
interior photos, sitting alongside the
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