How much did a 1966 Ford Bronco cost new?
The base price for a new 1966 Ford Bronco was about $2,195 in 1966 dollars. That starting figure could rise with engine upgrades, top configurations, and other options. This article breaks down what that number meant at the time and how it translates today.
Pricing at launch
Ford introduced the first-generation Bronco in 1966 with a base price commonly cited around $2,195. The model was sold as a compact, rugged 4x4 designed for off-road capability and light utility work. The standard powerplant was a 170-cubic-inch inline-six, with a 289 cubic-inch V8 offered as an option for buyers seeking more torque. Optional features and configurations—such as various tops and transmissions—could push the total price higher than the base figure.
Inflation and modern value
When adjusted for inflation, the 1966 base price of roughly $2,195 equates to about $18,000–$20,000 in today's dollars, depending on the inflation index used. The Bronco’s original price sits in a mid-range for its era—affordable enough to attract buyers who wanted practical off-road capability without paying for a full-size SUV.
What buyers got for their money in 1966
At launch, the Bronco offered a blend of utility and off-road competence that appealed to ranchers, outdoors enthusiasts, and first-time SUV buyers. The price positioning placed it between basic, purpose-built Jeeps and more expensive, full-size sport-utility models, signaling Ford’s intent to make four-wheel-drive accessibly priced for everyday use and exploratory driving.
Summary
In 1966, a new Ford Bronco started at about $2,195, with options such as a V8 engine or different top configurations pushing the total price higher. In today’s dollars, that base figure roughly translates to around $20,000, reflecting a market strategy that paired rugged capability with an approachable entry price. The Bronco’s initial price helped anchor its legacy as an affordable, capable off-roader that would grow into a long-running staple of Ford’s SUV lineup.
What was the average price of a new car in 1966?
A new car in 1966 cost roughly $3,500 on average, though the price varied significantly depending on the model. For example, a basic car might have cost less, while a high-end model like an Oldsmobile 98 was around $3,399. The 1966 Chevrolet Corvette, a performance model, had a base price of $4,084.
- Average Price: About $3,500
- Specific Model Examples:
- Oldsmobile 98: $3,399
- Chevrolet Corvette (base price): $4,084
- Ford Mustang (base price): $2,416, with many options increasing the price
How much was a Ford Bronco in 1966?
A base model 1966 Ford Bronco had a starting price of $2,194. The open-body "roadster" model was listed at a slightly higher base price of $2,400.
- The starting price was for a vehicle with few standard amenities, though a wide array of options could be purchased through Ford and dealers.
- Options included things like bucket seats, a tachometer, a CB radio, and practical items such as a tow bar, snowplow, or winch.
- The original price of $2,194 is approximately $20,055 in 2022 dollars.
How many Ford Broncos were made in 1966?
23,776
Sales
| Year | Units |
|---|---|
| 1966 | 23,776 |
| 1967 | 14,230 |
| 1968 | 16,629 |
| 1969 | 20,956 |
How much was a Ford Bronco in 1996?
The original MSRP for a 1996 Ford Bronco ranged from approximately $23,035 for the base XL model to $29,285 for the Eddie Bauer trim. The specific price depended on the trim level and any additional options selected.
- XL: Starting MSRP was around $23,035.
- XLT: Starting MSRP was around $25,795 to $26,215.
- Eddie Bauer: Starting MSRP was around $28,865 to $29,285.
