Ford Bronco II: A Compact Off-Road Companion

The Ford Bronco is a legendary name in the world of off-road vehicles. However, the Bronco wasn't always the full-size behemoth we know today. In the mid-1980s, Ford offered a smaller, more manageable version called the Bronco II.

Debuting in 1984, the Bronco II carved its niche as a compact SUV, capitalizing on the growing popularity of the segment. This article will delve into the history, features, and legacy of the Ford Bronco II.

A Compact Take on the Bronco Legacy

The Ford Bronco II wasn't a direct descendant of the original, full-size Bronco. Instead, it shared its platform with the Ford Ranger compact pickup truck. This kinship resulted in a smaller, nimbler vehicle that was well-suited for navigating tight trails and off-road adventures.

The Bronco II was offered solely as a three-door wagon, a configuration that prioritized cargo space and off-road capability over passenger comfort. It directly competed with the likes of the Jeep Cherokee, Chevrolet S-10 Blazer, and GMC S-15 Jimmy, all of which offered similar features and targeted the burgeoning compact SUV market.

Engine and Drivetrain Options

The Bronco II came with a variety of engine options throughout its production run:

• 2.8L Cologne V6: This base engine offered decent power and fuel economy for everyday driving.
• 2.0L I4: Introduced later in the production cycle, this engine provided a more budget-friendly option.
• 2.3L I4: This optional engine delivered a good balance of power and fuel efficiency.
• 2.9L Cologne V6: The top-of-the-line engine offered robust power for tackling challenging terrain.

Buyers could choose between rear-wheel drive (RWD) for on-road driving or a four-wheel drive (4WD) system for venturing off the beaten path. The 4WD system offered different configurations depending on the model year, including manually-engaged systems and electronically-controlled options.

Features and Trims

The Bronco II offered several trims throughout its lifespan, catering to different needs and budgets:

• Base: This trim provided the essentials for off-roading, including skid plates, a tow hitch, and off-road tires.
• XL: This trim added amenities like cloth upholstery, a stereo system, and upgraded interior trim.
• Eddie Bauer: This top-of-the-line trim boasted features like bucket seats, upgraded carpeting, and unique exterior graphics.

Beyond trims, several packages were available to further customize the Bronco II. These packages could include features like a sunroof, fog lights, a heavy-duty suspension, and a winch for serious off-road enthusiasts.

Strengths and Weaknesses

The Bronco II had its fair share of strengths and weaknesses:

• Strengths:
• Compact size and maneuverability
• Off-road capability with available 4WD systems
• Variety of engine options
• Affordable price point
• Weaknesses:
• Cargo space could be limited with rear seats in use
• Ride quality could be rough on uneven terrain
• Safety concerns due to a rollover incident (discussed later)

The Rollover Incident and Legacy

The Ford Bronco II's legacy is somewhat tarnished by a series of rollover accidents that occurred in the late 1980s. These incidents involved the vehicle's rear suspension design, which could contribute to rollovers in certain situations. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) issued a warning and Ford ultimately issued a recall to address the issue.

Despite the safety concerns, the Bronco II remained in production until 1990. Following its discontinuation, Ford wouldn't offer another compact Bronco until the 2023 model year, which shared the name but was a completely different vehicle built on a different platform.

The Ford Bronco II: A Footnote in Off-Road History

The Ford Bronco II's place in history is as a competent compact SUV that offered off-road capability in a smaller package. While its production run was cut short due to safety concerns, it found a niche among those seeking an affordable and maneuverable off-road companion. The return of the Bronco name on a new compact SUV in 2023 shows that Ford continues to see the potential in this segment, albeit with a renewed focus on safety and modern features.