1973 Bronco — Wagon-only, with new comfort options

This page covers U.S.-market 1973 first-generation Broncos. The U14 Pickup ended after 1972, leaving the U15 Wagon. Ford's period brochure establishes the engine, transmission, steering and GVW availability; historical references establish the Ranger package date and the published total.

Why it matters

1973 shifts Bronco from a multiple-body utility range to a Wagon-only truck with more conventional convenience options.

What this page covers

Market: United States; first-generation Bronco.

Body styles: U15 Wagon — sole body style

What changed for this year

Wagon only: The Pickup was discontinued; the Wagon was the only 1973 body style. [1] [2]
200 six and convenience options: Ford listed a 200-cubic-inch six as standard, 302 V8 optional, and automatic transmission and power steering available with the V8. [1]
Ranger introduced: Ford's history dates the Ranger package to 1973, after Explorer's 1972 debut. [2]

Models and trims

Ranger: Ranger was the top-level period package. Authenticate original trim with data-plate and documentary evidence, not replacement graphics or upholstery. [2] [3]
Explorer and Sport: Explorer and Sport continued as distinct period package identities. [2]

Engines and transmissions

200 inline six: Ford listed the 200 six as standard for 1973. [1]
302 V8: The 302 V8 was optional; the C4 automatic and power steering were available with the V8. [1]

Capability and specifications

GVW and wheelbase: Ford listed a 4,300-pound standard GVW package; the early Bronco retained its 92-inch wheelbase. [1]
Production: A published historical total is 21,894. It is a historical compilation, not a factory configuration-level build record. [3]

Colors and interiors

Period finish: Use Ford's 1973 brochure and data-plate evidence for factory paint/interior claims; restored appearance is not proof. [1]

Options and packages

Automatic and steering: Automatic transmission and power steering are important 1973 configuration checks. Confirm components and documentation rather than assuming every V8 had both. [1]

Safety and recalls

Vintage inspection: 1973 predates modern crash ratings and airbags. Have brakes, steering, fuel, tires, belts, wiring and corrosion inspected by a vintage-4x4 specialist. [1]

Owner and buyer notes

Confirm a real Ranger: A claimed Ranger should have corroborating data-plate, trim and document evidence; reproduction graphics alone cannot establish original package status. [2] [3]

Stories from this year

The Bronco grows up without growing larger: The 1973 catalog narrowed the Bronco to one body but broadened its usability: automatic transmission and power steering made the compact Wagon easier to live with. [1] [2]

Sources and footnotes

Bracketed references beside a fact lead to the document that supports it.

Ford 1973 Bronco sales brochure Manufacturer factory literature
Ford first-generation Bronco history Manufacturer history
First-generation Bronco historical production and trim research Specialist historical reference

See something missing or wrong? Send a correction or source.

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