What is a 1968 Bronco worth?
Across the market, a 1968 Ford Bronco can fetch anywhere from roughly $15,000 for a rough, non-running project to more than $150,000 for an exceptionally preserved, numbers-matching example. Most examples in good-to-very-good condition are typically in the $40,000 to $100,000 range, with price influenced by originality, provenance, and options.
The 1968 Bronco is part of Ford’s first-generation Broncos (1966–1977), a time when compact, rugged utility vehicles became cultural icons. This article examines current pricing, what drives value, and how buyers and sellers can gauge a Bronco’s market worth in today’s collector-car landscape.
Market snapshot
Prices for a 1968 Bronco vary widely based on condition, originality, and documented history. Here’s a practical guide to current market ranges to help buyers and sellers set expectations.
- Project/needs work or non-running: typically $15,000–$25,000. These are often frames with missing parts, rust issues, or mechanical needs requiring significant investment.
- Fair condition (drivable but cosmetically rough): roughly $25,000–$40,000. Runs and drives but may need bodywork, interior refresh, or mechanical attention.
- Good condition (drivable, solid mechanically, decent cosmetics): about $40,000–$70,000. Clean daily-driver potential with functional ergonomics and presentable appearance.
- Very good to excellent (well-restored or largely original with quality work): around $70,000–$110,000. Attractive to collectors and enthusiasts, often with documented history.
- Concours/number-matching or highly sought-after options (hardtop, rare colors, factory equipment, pristine restorations): typically $110,000–$180,000+ and can exceed six figures in top-tier auctions.
These ranges reflect current appetite for first-generation Broncos, with notable price inflation in recent years driven by limited supply, nostalgia, and strong aftermarket support. Auction results, dealer listings, and private sales can skew higher on rare combinations or well-documented builds, while rougher projects can sit at the lower end for extended periods.
What drives value
Several factors determine where a 1968 Bronco falls within the price spectrum. Buyers weigh originality, condition, and provenance just as much as mechanical reliability and cosmetic appeal.
Originality and documentation
Valuers prize engines, transmissions, and axles that are original or correctly period-correct replacements. Documentation—such as build sheets, VIN history, dealership records, and restoration receipts—can substantially boost perceived value and sale comfort for buyers.
- Numbers-matching drivetrain and original engine if applicable
- Factory options verification (hardtop vs. soft top, wheels, trim, interior)
- Comprehensive history including ownership timeline and maintenance records
Well-documented Broncos with correct colors and factory equipment tend to command premium in the market, especially when paired with credible restoration details.
Condition and restoration quality
How the Bronco has been cared for or restored matters as much as how it looks in photos. The quality of metalwork, paint finish, and interior restoration often determines whether a vehicle lands in the “excellent” or “average” category in valuations.
- Quality bodywork with minimal filler and solid frame
- Premium, period-correct detailing (grille, badges, trims)
- Reliable mechanicals (engine, transmission, steering, brakes) and safe electrical system
Investments in authentic restoration or a meticulous, quality refresh can push a Bronco into higher brackets, while sloppy workmanship or non-period-correct parts can limit value gains.
How to assess a Bronco for value
Appraisers and buyers typically run through a practical checklist to gauge worth quickly. Here are common steps you’ll see in market evaluations and inspections.
- Inspect the frame and undercarriage for rust and repairs; check for consistent welding and corrosion prevention
- Verify the engine and drivetrain are period-appropriate or correctly replaced with updates that are reversible
- Check for matching numbers where possible (engine, transmission, axles) and document provenance
- Assess the interior for wear consistency with stated mileage and restoration quality
- Evaluate options like hardtop, soft top, and aftermarket gear for market desirability
Getting a professional pre-purchase inspection or a documented appraisal can provide clarity on market value, especially for higher-end examples or unusual configurations.
Summary
The value of a 1968 Bronco hinges on condition, originality, and documented history, with a broad market range from roughly $15,000 for rough projects to well over $150,000 for pristine, numbers-matching specimens. For buyers, prioritize authenticity, documented restoration, and a solid mechanical baseline; for sellers, accurate presentation of provenance and high-quality workmanship will help maximize value in today’s competitive market.
Bottom line: if you’re shopping for a 1968 Bronco, aim for a well-documented example in good to excellent condition with genuine parts and a restoration that respects the original character. If you’re selling, present clear documentation, a compelling restoration story, and a clean, inspection-ready vehicle to command top dollar.
