Old Bronco vs. 2021 Ford Bronco | What's Changed in the Past 25 Years?

There's no question that Bronco enthusiasts are excited about the new 2021 Ford Bronco, but how does this rereleased model compare to the original. We will make a complete old Bronco vs. 2021 Ford Bronco comparison to see what has changed over the years. We look at the old vs. new Bronco capability, performance, features, and pricing.

Release Dates | Old Bronco vs. 2021 Ford Bronco

The old Bronco was released in 1966 and transitioned from a compact SUV to full-size in 1978. The 2021 Ford Bronco release date is scheduled for early next year in Spring 2021.

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Trail & Terrain Capabilities | Old Bronco vs. 2021 Ford Bronco

It's clear that the new Bronco is geared for hitting the trails, but you can't overlook the capability of the old Bronco. In fact, the 1971 Bronco has superior geometry, geared for hitting any terrain. However, it has some rear overhang, hindering its departure angle.

Old Bronco vs. 2021 Ford Bronco Off-Road Technology & Power

Don't underestimate the capability of the old Bronco, but you also want to know about all the new technology included with a 2021 Ford Bronco.

25 Years Ago, Bronco:

• Ground clearance: 13.3 inches
• Approach angle 45.0 degrees
• Breakover angle 31.2 degrees
• Departure angle: 34.0 degrees

2021 Ford Bronco of Today:

• Ground clearance: 11.6 inches
• Approach angle: 43.2 degrees
• Breakover angle: 20.9 degrees
• Departure angle: 37.2 degrees

Models & Price | Old Bronco vs. 2021 Ford Bronco

As of now, we are expecting five varying trim levels with the 2021 Ford Bronco. However, the original only came with one model.

Old Ford Bronco

• Base | $2,400 (original MSRP), $36,000 (average retail price today)

2021 Ford Bronco

• Base | $26,660
• Big Bend | $28,160
• Outer Banks | $32,160
• Badlands | $34,155
• First Edition | $39,655

Engine & Horsepower | Old Bronco vs. 2021 Ford Bronco

The 1966 Bronco came with Ford's 170-cubic-inch six-cylinder engine that produced 105 horsepower. It was the same engine used in the Econolines and Falcons at that time. Shortly after its debut, a 289-cubic-inch V8 was available. Today, the 2021 Ford Bronco comes with either a 2.3-liter four-cylinder producing 270 horsepower or a 2.7-liter twin-turbocharged V6 outputting 310 horsepower. 

Towing Capacity | Old Bronco vs. 2021 Ford Bronco

To tow with the 1966 Ford Bronco, owners had to upgrade the SUV with aftermarket parts. The 2021 Ford Bronco will tow 3,500 pounds and is capable of hauling 1,370 pounds.

MPG & Fuel Tank Capacity | Old Bronco vs. 2021 Ford Bronco

The 1966 Ford Bronco got an estimated 16 mpg with its 13-gallon fuel tank. We don't know the 2021 Ford Bronco mpg rating yet, but we know it has a 16-gallon fuel tank.

Transmission | Old Bronco vs. 2021 Ford Bronco

The original Bronco came with a three-speed manual transmission, while the newer Bronco models will include a ten-speed automatic.

Interior & Exterior Design | Old Bronco vs. 2021 Ford Bronco

The 2021 Ford Bronco is meant to look similar to the original Bronco with its boxy style. The first-generation Bronco measures 151.5″ L x 68.5″ W x 71.6″ H, which is significantly smaller than the new Bronco at 173″ L x 74″ W x 70-74″ H. The 1966 Bronco also included 15-inch wheels, while the 2021 Ford Bronco comes with 17- or 18-inch wheels.

The biggest upgrade is the amount of technology in the new Bronco. After all, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and features, such as the SYNC 4 infotainment system, weren't available back in the sixties.

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Color Options | Old Bronco vs. 2021 Ford Bronco

Both models come in a variety of color options.

1966 Ford Bronco

• Interior: (1) light gray
• Exterior: (11) Raven Black, Arcadian Blue, Caribbean Turquoise, Sahara Beige, Holly Green, Rangoon Red, Marlin Blue, Wimbledon White, Skylight Blue, San Jose Plant, and Springtime Yellow

2021 Ford Bronco

• Interior: (2) brown/black (yellow accents), white/gray (red accents)
• Exterior: (11) Oxford White, Velocity Blue, Rapid Red Metallic Tinted Clearcoat, Cyber Orange Metallic Tri-Coat, Area 51, Cactus Gray, Shadow Black, Carbonized Gray, Antimatter Blue, Iconic Silver, and Race Red

Buy A New Ford Bronco

Buy a new Ford Bronco and experience the thrill of this iconic SUV. With so many Bronco models to choose from, there is one that fits your needs.

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Buy A Used Ford Bronco

We can also find a pre-owned Ford Bronco if you prefer the older generations. Talk to our team about your Bronco dreams today.

Lease A New Ford Bronco

Save some money while fulfilling your off-road desires. We have Ford Bronco lease deals that will fit your budget.