OVERVIEW
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• First generation of Broncos to get Mustang’s C4 auto transmission
• 302 CI V8
• Upgraded Dana 44 rear axle
• Built June 1974
Vehicle Options:
Midnight Blue Metallic
C4 3 speed transmission
Power Steering
15” Steel Wheels
Locking Center Hubs
Removable Hardtop
Convertible top
Receiver Hitch
HD Package
Ford wanted to do something different, but instead of keeping their hands clean by staying on asphalt, they decided they wanted to make their toes dirty and start shooting up sand from under their tires. In March of 1966, Ford released this Bronco with three different variations; the roadster, sports utility, and the wagon. All three would come factory equipped with 4 Wheel-Drive, a 3 speed manual transmission, and a 170 cubic inch 6 cylinder engine putting down a whopping 105Hp.
However, before Ford was sure the Bronco would be a huge success in the off-roading realm, they decided to give one to Bill Stroppe and his team, giving them permission to go pedal to the metal in various competitions. Stroppe took it to the 1967 Riverside Four-Wheel Drive Grand Prix and took home a Podium finish. In 1968, they took victories in Rverside, Mint 400, and the Baja 1000. News got around so quickly that Indianapolis 500 winner Parnelli Jones took notice of them and joined the team. Jones ended up driving with Stroppe and took victories in both the 1971 and 1972 Mexican 1000 Race.
Due to the Bronco’s huge success, Ford decided to go all out on their last facelift of their first generation Bronco. On top of the already existing 200CID Inline six-cylinder engine, Ford gave their pride and joy, the ’74 Bronco, a newly designed, 302 CID V8 that put down 125hp and 243tq. Just to mess and compete with Chevrolet and their blazer, they thought of an intriguing idea of sticking in a brand new (to the Bronco, already equipped in the mustang at this time) C4 3 speed automatic transmission, which actually ended up becoming more popular than the pre-existing, 3 speed manual transmission. The rear axle for the ’74 was also upgraded to a Dana 44, paired with the already pre-existing Dana 30 front axle and the 9” rear end, only drastically improved the off-roading capabilities.
The 1974 Ford Bronco is the most sought-after off-roading collector SUV by enthusiasts mainly due to the available options and trim packages offered, the exclusive-to-1974 302CID V8 powerplant in the first generation, the automatic transmission, and ultimately, it marks the end of the first generation Bronco that rolled off of Ford’s assembly line.
This particular Bronco was restored during its previous ownership between 2013-2023 and had been fitted with extensive desirable options. On the outside, the truck was repainted in Midnight Blue Metallic with a white removable top. The front bumper, grille, moldings, rubber seals, and windshield were replaced in the same year. In regards to safety, a roll bar had been added to the mix and in terms of utility usage, a trailer hitch, a swing-away rear tire carrier, and dual side mirrors were added. The truck currently sits on a suspension lift kit which is supported by 15” steel wheels, fitted with Firestone Destination tires.
The transmission was reportedly resealed and the transmission mounts, fuel lines, auxiliary fuel tank, and battery were replaced in 2019. The oil pan gasket and crankshaft seal were replaced in 2023. The engine was reported at 137 horsepower and 222 lb-ft of torque, and power is routed to the rear or all four wheels through the C4 three-speed manual transmission and a dual range transfer case. A 7.5-gallon auxiliary fuel tank was fitted from the factory as well.
Upon arrival at Canepa, every collector car for sale is put through an extensive and diligent process called the “Canepa Difference.” This includes a major and comprehensive mechanical inspection where all systems are checked, serviced, and restored as needed. They also receive award-winning Concours-level detailing, including a thorough cleaning of each and every surface.
