How much did a Bronco cost in 1980?
In 1980, a new Ford Bronco typically carried a sticker price around $9,000, with fully optioned models approaching about $12,000. Prices varied by engine choice, four-wheel-drive equipment, and optional features, and regional dealer pricing could shift this figure by a few hundred dollars.
The Bronco entering the 1980 model year represented a updating of Ford’s compact-to-mid-size SUV line, aimed at buyers seeking serious off-road capability without stepping up to full-size trucks. The price reflected a balance between rugged performance, interior space, and the era’s inflationary pressures on consumer goods.
Price snapshot for the 1980 Ford Bronco
The 1980 Bronco’s sticker price differed by configuration. A reasonably equipped base model started in the upper-$8,000s to around $9,000, while adding V8 power, a manual or automatic transmission, and extra options pushed the price higher—typically into the low to mid-$10,000s and, in well-equipped configurations, near $12,000.
Engine and trim impact
Engine choices and trim levels were the primary drivers of price. The Bronco offered V8 options that increased power and capability, and transmissions (manual or automatic) plus convenience features or off-road packages added to the total. These options explained much of the variance seen in the sticker price from model to model and dealer to dealer.
Context and market placement
In 1980, the Bronco competed with other mid-size sport-utility vehicles and rugged 4x4s. Its price positioned it as a capable, relatively premium choice within the segment, reflecting its blend of off-road capability, cargo space, and daily usability at the start of a new decade.
Notes on accuracy and availability
Historical pricing comes from Ford’s official price lists for the 1980 model year and contemporaneous automotive publications. Actual purchase prices varied by dealership, regional taxes, and optional equipment or packages installed at the factory or after delivery. For precise figures, vintage Ford catalogs or dealership brochures are the best primary sources.
Summary
The 1980 Ford Bronco generally started in the high $8,000s and could exceed $12,000 for well-equipped versions. A typical buyer paying around $9,000–$10,000 would find a reasonably equipped Bronco, with higher prices tied to engine upgrades and optional packages. The exact price depended on engine choice, drivetrain configuration, and selected options, along with regional pricing differences.
Overall, the 1980 Bronco marked a pivotal year for Ford’s SUV lineup, offering substantial capability at a moderate to premium price point for its era.
