What are the models of the 1968 Ford Bronco?
The 1968 Ford Bronco offered three discrete trim levels: Bronco (Base), Bronco Custom, and Bronco Sport.
For context, the Bronco's first generation (1966–1977) established the vehicle as a compact, rugged SUV built on a truck chassis. In 1968, Ford streamlined the lineup into three primary models, each with its own mix of features, interior appointments, and available options. Availability and exact equipment could vary by market and dealer.
Trim lineup explained
Below is a concise breakdown of the three primary 1968 Bronco models and how they were typically positioned within the lineup.
- Bronco (Base) – The entry-level model with essential equipment and straightforward styling. It emphasized value and rugged practicality, serving as the platform for buyers who preferred minimal frills and the option to specialty-build from a solid base.
- Bronco Custom – The mid-range trim, adding upgraded interior materials and exterior trim, along with additional conveniences over the base model. It represented the more comfortable option without stepping into top-tier luxury.
- Bronco Sport – The off-road–oriented variant, featuring a more rugged appearance and equipment geared toward outdoor use. This model typically emphasized versatility for trails and recreational driving, with features that appealed to the adventure-minded buyer.
Note: The exact features and package contents could vary by year, region, and dealer, and some brochures used different naming conventions for similar equipment packages.
Historical context of the 1968 Bronco lineup
The first-generation Bronco debuted in 1966 as Ford’s compact, go-anywhere SUV. By 1968, Ford had crystallized the lineup into three primary models, aligning with consumer demand for both economical base transportation and more capable off-roading iterations. The Bronco shared its chassis and many mechanicals with Ford’s compact truck family, reinforcing its reputation for durability and versatility.
Engine options
Across the 1968 Bronco lineup, buyers could choose from engine options that balanced performance and efficiency for a small SUV. Common choices included a 170-cubic-inch inline-six and a 289-cubic-inch V8, with transmissions that typically offered manual and automatic configurations depending on the build and market.
Notable features
Removable tops and doors were hallmark features of the Bronco’s design, underscoring its open-air versatility. The Custom and Sport trims often included upgraded interior and exterior accents, while the Base trim remained focused on durability and value. The Sport trim, in particular, displayed a more rugged aesthetic and options tailored toward off-road use.
Summary
The 1968 Ford Bronco’s model lineup consisted of three primary trims—Bronco (Base), Bronco Custom, and Bronco Sport—catering to a range of buyers from value-focused to off-road enthusiasts. As a member of Ford’s first-generation Bronco family, the 1968 models shared core engineering while offering distinct levels of equipment and styling to suit different needs. The result was a versatile, enduring design that helped define the Bronco’s early legacy.
