The first Ford Broncos pretty much created the modern SUV craze. There were others before the Bronco, but few combined utility, rugged good looks, and go-anywhere abilities as well as the Ford. This 1969 Ford Bronco is an excellent example of the breed, and it's set up properly with a lot of upgrades that make it a pleasure to drive, on-road or off.Part of the Bronco's appeal is most definitely the look. Not too big, not too small, but just right to be comfortable yet maneuverable. Then there's the classic upright profile that's instantly identifiable from a mile away. Of course, this one has been augmented and features bright white fender flares to cover the oversized rubber and the front bumper has gone from safety feature to styling statement in this truck's case. The paint job is right for the application, not so nice that you'll be afraid to use it as intended and the color is called "Reef Blue," which was this truck's original color and they worked hard to get it right. It's a familiar Ford look that looks right at home on the squared-off Bronco. It was finished only about 1000 miles ago, and while these trucks were notorious for rusting in the most demonic ways possible, but this one appears to have been clean from the get-go. Other features include all-new weather seals and tubular front and rear bumpers.The interior has been tastefully restored without diminishing any of the truck's legendary functionality. Fresh black carpets protect the floors, there are simple door panels, and a steel dash are still the primary elements, and the low-back bucket seats look a lot like Mustang chairs, even though they're not. The list of upgrades is pretty short, including the thick padded steering wheel, and it's probably worth noting that the blue paint in the A-pillars is original, so you can see just how well it matches. There's a radio block-off plate in the center of the dash, so you can either leave it stock or easily add your own entertainment system and the rear bench has been freshly reupholstered. With the hardtop and doors in place, this truck seals up well and remains a lot of fun to drive thanks to three-on-the-tree shifting and, of course, the 4-wheel-drive system.Early Broncos were saddled with a small inline-six, but this one is powered by a freshly rebuilt 302 cubic inch V8, which was a late addition to the Bronco's option list. Still largely running in stock configuration, it includes a factory 2-barrel carburetor and intake manifold, Ford Blue paint on the block, and a stock ignition system. Dressed up with chrome accents and Edelbrock valve covers, the engine bay has a functional look that's only a little flashy, and power steering and front disc brakes make it easy to wheel around the underbrush. There's also a giant radiator up front to keep it cool at low speeds, as well as optional dual gas tanks. Underneath, it's fully equipped with a C4 3-speed manual transmission, 2-speed transfer case, and a dual exhaust system that sounds like a V8 Ford should. Flashy aluminum wheels carry 31x11.5x15 off-road tires that look like they could climb a wall.If you're looking for a trail-ready early Bronco, this one is ready to roll and built for fun. With restoration photos and receipts included, this is an early V8 Bronco you can buy with confidence and enjoy right away. Call now!