22-Years-Owned 1976 Ford Bronco 302 3-Speed

Description

The 1976 Ford Bronco represents the second‑to‑last year of the first‑generation model, which had been in production since 1966. Originally introduced as a compact, utilitarian four‑wheel‑drive vehicle, the Bronco evolved over the decade in response to growing competition and changing buyer expectations. By 1976, the lineup had been simplified to a single Wagon body style, and several notable mechanical updates had been made.

The 302ci V8 became the sole engine offering, replacing earlier six‑cylinder options. The Bronco could be ordered with either a three‑speed manual transmission (as seen here) or a C4 three‑speed automatic, both paired with a Dana 20 two‑speed transfer case. In 1976, Ford widened the Bronco’s track width and introduced a Dana 44 front axle, improving stability and durability. Front disc brakes were made standard equipment.

According to its Marti Report, this 1976 Bronco is one of only 448 finished in Mecca Gold and features a white removable hardtop along with a factory‑optioned Parchment knit vinyl interior. Purchased by the seller in the early 2000s and serviced regularly with conservation in mind, the original engine has since been replaced with a correct 302ci-2V V8, while the remainder of the drivetrain is reportedly in factory specification.

This 22-years-owned 1976 Ford Bronco is now offered with a Deluxe Marti Report, Haynes repair manual, two sets of keys, part receipts, a car cover, spare parts, and clean Virginia title in the seller’s name.

Highlights

• Late-model first-generation Bronco

• Refinished in factory-correct (Y) Mecca Gold with Parchment knit vinyl interior

• Replacement 302ci-2V V8

• Factory column-shift three-speed manual transmission

• Deluxe Marti Report included

Factory Equipment

• Power front disc brakes

• Power steering

• Swing-away spare tire carrier

• White removable hardtop

• Painted bumpers

• Dual fuel tanks

• Skid plates

• Rear seat

• 100-mph speedometer, oil pressure, coolant temp, voltage, and fuel level gauges

• The chassis number (U15GL80073) decodes as:

  • U15 – Wagon

  • G – 302ci V8

  • L – Michigan Truck assembly plant

  • 80073 – Built in March 1976

Modifications

• Six-point roll cage

• 15-inch steel wheels

• Sony aftermarket stereo

Servicing & Documentation

• Deluxe Marti Report (see photo gallery)

• 30x9.5r15 BFGoodrich tires with 2018 date codes

• April 2025:

  • Installed new power brake booster, master cylinder, and proportioning valve

  • Installed new hard and soft brake lines

  • Installed Warn lockout hubs and replaced wheel bearings, disc brake rotors, pads, calipers, and hardware

  • Installed new rear brake drums, shoes, and hardware

  • Installed new distributor, Duraspark ignition module, spark plugs, wires, and wiring harness

Known Imperfections

• Repair on front edge of hood with mismatched paint

• Paint chips on bumpers

Ownership History

This 1976 Ford Bronco was purchased approximately 22 years ago by the seller, who states it has been primarily driven to cruise-ins and car shows, never used off-road during their ownership, and stored alongside other vehicles in a classic Ford collection. The seller is believed to be the third owner, and it’s reported that Bronco was sold new in Harrisonburg, Virginia and has remained registered in the state since.

Included Items

• Deluxe Marti Report

• Haynes repair manual

• Two sets of keys

• Part receipts

• Car cover

• Removed/replaced original parts

Additional Information

From the seller, “I grew up driving my father's 1973 Bronco and dreamed of having an original of my own. I found this Bronco south of Richmond, Virginia 22 years ago, and I have always kept it as original as I could. Now retirement is near, and it's time to let it go to someone that appreciates an original Bronco of their own. This is a fine example of a no-frills Bronco the way they were meant to be."