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1979 Ford Bronco Free-Wheeler Tribute
1979 Ford Bronco Free-Wheeler Tribute Vin #U15HLFD5172 Engine: 351cid-4V V-8 Transmission: 3 speed automatic Mileage: 275 Debuting in 1978 and touted as the evolution of the already iconic Bronco nameplate, the second generation Bronco saw the popularity of the SUV soar to new heights. According to Ford, the only two years of second generation production ('78/'79) proved to be some of the most popular models in the Bronco's 30-year production run. Much of this acclaim came as a result of the improvements garnished upon the second generation Bronco which transformed it into larger, more luxurious package which also retained its offroad characteristics. The key developments which contributed to the differentiation between Series 1 and 2 included the transition to a larger (and longer) body platform, shared with the F-100 full-size pickups, optional dual shocks for the front suspension, heavy-duty rear shocks, and front and rear sway bars to improve ride and handling. The front and rear axles, along with other key components, were carried over from the F-Series, and horsepower was amplified with two standard V8 engines (351cid 135hp and 402cid 149hp). Ford offered two transmission options on the '78 and '79 Broncos, either a four-speed manual, or an optional four-speed auto. With the automatic transmission came the availability of a full time four-wheel drive system. The notoriety of the second generation Bronco was further bolstered by the addition of new personalization aspects, both internally and externally. The sense of '80's-retro flare and luxury was a considerable step above the original Bronco which, in its original form, could be described as having "no frills." The front seats were offered in multiple configurations including low-back bucket seats, high-back bucket seats, a bench seat, and captains chairs (1979 only). The rear seat offers room for 3 passengers and is capable of flipping down for improved rear load space. Options such as sliding rear windows and a padded "GT" bar for rollover safety further improved interior livability. Lastly, the "Free-Wheeling Package" which was available on the Ranger XLT or Custom Broncos, featured a tri-color exterior livery consisting of orange/tan/cream or blue/white/green depending on the base color which was chosen. In addition to the exterior livery came blacked out bumpers front and rear, low-mount side mirrors, and optional upgraded wheels. This 1979 Ford Bronco XLT was purchased in 2020 by its current owner with the intention of creating a period-correct example of the second generation Bronco, which also benefits from the advantages of modern refinements. In order to do so, a full aesthetic and mechanical overhaul was carried out. This involved the disassembly of nearly the entire car, wherein each piece was re-assembled with parts from either NOS (new-old stock) or better, including aftermarket suspension from Rough Country. Each mechanical aspect of this Bronco also received attention including a rebuilt rear differential, as well as a teardown of the original engine and subsequent refinishing. The body and undercarriage was media-blasted and fully repainted in Black and custom Free Wheeling-style decals were printed in order to perfectly emulate the original Free-Wheeling Package appearance. The entire underside of the car was also finished with a rust-inhibiting coating. Inside, this Bronco received completely new upholstery and interior trim, which is also in the style of the original Free-Wheeling Package. Importantly, all of the fabric incorporated into the restoration was sourced from Ford, therefore matching the feel of the original down to the touch. The interior also benefits from revisions such as a modern radio, mirror-integrated backup camera, LED vanity lighting and backlit instrument cluster, and an overhauled air conditioning system. An itemized list of each aspect of the restoration is included with this lot, down to the bolts and lug nuts. Since the completion of its restoration, this Bronco has covered only 275 miles and currently resides with the owner/consignor in Miami, Florida with a clean title. IMPORTANT NOTICE FOR CAR BIDDERS ONLY: 10% buyer's premium available to phone bidders only. Please contact Kodner Galleries at 954.925.2550 M-F 10-5 EDT to register to bid. Bid deposit is required. Condition: Offered "As Is, Where Is" without warranties expressed or implied of any kind. For additional photos, videos or information, please contact assettomarquee.com or the gallery at info@kodner.com or 954.925.2550 IMPORTANT NOTICE FOR CAR BIDDERS ONLY: 10% buyer's premium available to phone bidders only. Please contact Kodner Galleries at 954.925.2550 M-F 10-5 EDT to register to bid. Bid deposit is required. Estimate: $75,000.00 - $100,000.00 Domestic Shipping: Buyer to arrange shipping
Item Condition: Offered "As Is, Where Is" without warranties expressed or implied of any kind. For additional photos, videos or information, please contact assettomarquee.com or the gallery at info@kodner.com or 954.925.2550 IMPORTANT NOTICE FOR CAR BIDDERS ONLY: 10% buyer's premium available to phone bidders only. Please contact Kodner Galleries at 954.925.2550 M-F 10-5 EDT to register to bid. Bid deposit is required.
Category: Automobiles
Estimate: $75,000.00 - $100,000.00
