How much is a 1986 Bronco worth?
The typical value range for a 1986 Ford Bronco spans roughly from $8,000 to $60,000, depending on condition, trim, mileage, and originality. Most drivable, well-preserved examples fall between about $15,000 and $40,000, while pristine restorations or rare editions can push higher. Market demand and provenance can tilt the accuracy of any single listing.
This article breaks down what drives that range, how different trims influence pricing, and how to estimate what your own Bronco is worth in today’s market. We’ll look at condition bands, edition-specific value, and practical steps to price or buy with confidence.
What affects a 1986 Bronco’s value
Value hinges on several interrelated factors: overall condition, originality, mileage, maintenance history, and whether the vehicle remains stock or has aftermarket modifications. Documentation, rust-free status, and a clean, verifiable provenance can lift a price, while extensive non-factory alterations or poor maintenance can cap it.
Here are typical market bands and what they mean.
- Project or rough, non-running: 8,000–15,000 USD
- Driver-quality, running with functional cosmetics: 15,000–25,000 USD
- Good to very good condition with clean cosmetics and stock configuration: 25,000–40,000 USD
- Excellent, restored, or rare editions (Eddie Bauer, XLT, low miles): 40,000–60,000+ USD
Prices vary by region and market sentiment, and local demand can push values higher or lower than these bands.
Trim, edition and build considerations
Not all Broncos carry the same value. Editions like Eddie Bauer and XLT offered additional luxury features and options, making them generally more desirable to collectors—especially if they’re documented, original, or well-restored. Base models are more common and can be affordable, but condition remains a dominant driver of price.
Before considering the list below, note that modifications can either enhance or undercut value depending on the buyer’s preferences and the quality of the work.
- Eddie Bauer, XLT, and other higher-trim models typically command higher prices than base models, particularly when unrestored or well-preserved.
- Base models are plentiful; price tends to hinge more on condition and provenance than trim alone.
- Special editions or limited runs can affect desirability and price; verify paperwork and authenticity with records.
- Originality and proper documentation often trump heavy aftermarket modification in terms of resale value.
Recent listings and auction results show that a well-preserved or properly restored Bronco in the right trim can fetch more than a similarly priced but heavily modified example, underscoring the value of documentation and originality.
How to value your own 1986 Bronco
To arrive at a precise value, assess your Bronco against standard condition categories and compare with current market data from price guides and listings. A structured approach helps ensure your price aligns with buyer expectations in your region.
- Gather essential information: VIN, mileage, service history, restorations, and all modifications.
- Inspect for rust and frame integrity, along with paint and panel originality.
- Evaluate mechanical systems: engine, transmission, 4x4, brakes, steering, and suspension.
- Assess interior condition, factory options, and documentation (original manuals, window sticker, build sheets).
- Consult multiple sources for current values: recent sales, active listings, Hagerty/NADA price guides, and market data from Bring a Trailer or classic car auctions.
- Consider regional demand and seasonality, and whether matching-numbers or documented history adds value.
For a precise asking price or purchase budget, you may also seek a professional appraisal or a trusted mechanic’s inspection to back your valuation with objective findings.
Key sources for current values
To stay aligned with the latest market, consult: Hagerty Price Guide, NADA Classic Car Guide, Bring a Trailer auction results, and reputable dealer listings. These sources reflect current demand, inventory, and how originality or restoration status influence price.
In summary, the value of a 1986 Bronco is driven most by condition and originality, with trim and provenance as significant boosters. Whether you’re selling or buying, use a careful mix of documentation, local market checks, and trusted price guides to anchor your expectations.
Summary: The 1986 Ford Bronco occupies a broad price spectrum—from affordable drivers to highly collectible finishes. By assessing condition, verifying originality, and weighing the edition’s desirability, buyers and sellers can navigate the market with greater confidence. The most valuable examples tend to be well-documented, properly restored, and in or near stock configuration, while heavily modified or poorly documented units often sit at the lower end of the spectrum.
How much is a 1987 Ford Bronco worth today?
The value of a 1987 Ford Bronco varies significantly, but generally ranges from approximately $9,500 to over $22,500, with high-end examples potentially fetching even more. The price depends heavily on factors like condition, mileage, original options, and specific trim level, such as the Eddie Bauer or XLT.
Price ranges by condition
- Low Retail: Around $12,150
- Average Retail: Around $21,300
- High Retail: Up to $36,600
- Real-world examples: Listings show prices from as low as $9,495 to $21,995, with some sold examples reaching $22,500 or more for excellent condition vehicles.
Factors that influence value
- Condition: Excellent, highly original examples will command the highest prices. Poorly maintained or modified vehicles will be worth less.
- Trim Level: Higher trims like the Eddie Bauer or XLT are often more valuable than the base model, but this can vary.
- Mileage: Low mileage is a significant factor that increases value.
- Mechanical and cosmetic condition: A well-maintained engine and a rust-free body are crucial for a higher valuation.
- Originality: Vehicles that are as close to their original factory configuration as possible are more desirable to collectors.
What makes the 1986 Ford Bronco special?
This time, key innovations boosted fuel economy and ensured a smoother ride, both on-road and off. A change from solid front axle to independent front suspension (Twin-Traction Beam) was implemented to improve ride characteristics while not compromising ground clearance in rough terrain.
Are old Broncos worth anything?
The classic Bronco has been one of the best-performing vehicles in the collector market for the past decade. Prices have surged at major auctions, and well-restored examples often command values that exceed those of other classic SUVs.
How much is a 1986 Ford Bronco worth?
Typically, you can expect to pay around $21,360 for a 1986 Ford Bronco Eddie Bauer in good condition with average spec.
