Ford Bronco II

The Ford Bronco II was a compact SUV sold between 1984 and 1990 as a compact complement to the full-size Ford Bronco, as well as to compete with the Chevrolet S-10 Blazer and Jeep Wrangler. It was mechanically the same as the Ford Ranger, but had a 94 in (2388 mm) wheelbase and was enclosed in the rear.

The 1984 and 1985 models were equipped with a 2.8 L V6, which was similar to Ford's 2.8 available in Europe. The 1986 model year introduced a 2.9 L EFI V6. This engine was doomed from the beginning with design flaws, often suffering premature cylinder head failure and loss of valvetrain lubrication if not rigorously maintained. Although these flaws had been fixed by the 1989 model year, the Bronco II was steadily becoming unattractive to potential buyers due to safety concerns.

The Ford Bronco II was known to tip over in some circumstances – as with most SUVs – due to the high center of gravity, and led to a NTSB investigation along with criticism by independent automotive safety groups. The Bronco II platform underwent a major redesign, and was re-released as the wider and longer Ford Explorer in 1991.

Despite its reputation as an unreliable, unsafe vehicle, the Bronco II is still actively sought-after by those in the market for a cheap, solid 4x4 utility vehicle. Its similarities to the Ford Ranger make it a easy to work on vehicle as well. Many engine swaps popular with the Ranger are possible with a Bronco II such as swapping in a Ford Windsor engine.