Ford Bronco II: history and specifications

Ford Bronco II

Ford Bronco at Arkhangelskoye Estate (Moscow Region, Russia)

The Ford Bronco II is a compact SUV from the American automaker Ford. Similar in size to the first Bronco, it was produced from 1984 to 1990. At that time, Ford also offered the third and fourth generations of the full-size Bronco.

Based on the Ford Ranger pickup truck, the Bronco II was available only as a three-door wagon. It competed with the three-door Jeep Cherokee, introduced that same year, as well as the compact Chevrolet S-10 Blazer and GMC S-15 Jimmy. GM had released these models a year earlier as more fuel-efficient SUVs with similar names.

In 1991, Ford replaced the Bronco II with the midsize Explorer, based on the Ranger. In addition to the three-door wagon, a five-door version was also introduced to meet greater demand. Ford’s next compact SUV was the 2001 Escape, which was only available in five doors. Until the release of the mid-size 2021 Bronco, the company had not produced a three-door SUV.

1989 Update

In 1989, the Bronco II was updated alongside the Ranger. Its exterior was redesigned: a new front end included a redesigned hood, front fenders, and a more robust front bumper. Interior changes were also made, with a redesigned instrument panel. These improvements not only altered the exterior but also increased the structural strength of the body. Production of the 1989 Bronco II lasted just under a year, ending in early 1990. It was replaced by the larger Ford Explorer, released in 1991.

The design of the 1990 all-wheel drive models produced after November 1989 underwent changes. The previous Dana 28 front axle was replaced by a Dana 35 axle.

Engines

The 1984–1985 models were equipped with a German-made, carbureted 2.8-liter Cologne V6 engine producing 115 HP at 4,600 rpm. This same engine was also used in the Ford Ranger of the same years. Initially, it was only available with all-wheel drive. In 1986, a 2.9-liter fuel-injected Cologne V6 engine, producing 140 HP, was introduced.

In 1986–1987, a 2.3-liter Mitsubishi 4-cylinder turbodiesel was available as an option. However, it was unpopular due to its low performance.