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Model year · First Generation

1976 Bronco

Optional front discs, clearly documented

The 1976 Bronco paired its sole 302 V8 with optional power brakes that included front discs—not standard discs on every truck.

This U.S.-market page follows Ford's 1976 brochure where it corrects later summaries: power brakes were optional and included front disc brakes; integral power steering was also optional. Inspect individual equipment rather than assuming it from model year.

Why it matters

1976 is an important authentication year because a common brake claim is contradicted by Ford's own brochure.

What this page covers

Market: United States; first-generation Bronco.

Body styles: U15 Wagon — sole body style

What changed for this year

Front discs with optional power brakes
Ford's brochure says optional power brakes included front discs; front discs were not universal standard equipment in 1976. [1]
Special Decor
Ford's history identifies a 1976 Special Decor package; survivor graphics require documentary authentication. [2] [3]

Models and trims

Special Decor
The appearance group used distinctive striping and dark grille details. It was not a factory Bicentennial Edition. [2] [3]

Engines and transmissions

302 V8
The two-barrel 302 V8 was the sole regular engine. [1]
Steering and transmission
Integral power steering and transmission choice were configuration-dependent; verify installed equipment and originality. [1]

Capability and specifications

Production
Published historical tables report 15,256. This is a specialist historical total, not a Ford configuration-level report. [4]
Brakes
Optional power brakes included front discs; base-brake configuration must be inspected on the individual truck. [1]

Colors and interiors

Paint and stripes
Use the Ford brochure, data plate and build documentation; modern reproduction stripes do not authenticate Special Decor status. [1] [3]

Options and packages

No factory Bicentennial Bronco
Ford's documented Bicentennial group applied to specified F-Series pickups, not Bronco; modern Bicentennial Broncos are tribute builds. [5]

Safety and recalls

Inspect the actual brake system
Confirm whether front discs and power assist are present and correctly maintained; also inspect steering, fuel, belts, tires, wiring and corrosion. [1]

Owner and buyer notes

Do not assume equipment
A 1976 VIN alone does not prove front discs or Special Decor. Use component inspection, data plate and build evidence. [1] [3]

Stories from this year

The Bronco that informed the rebirth
Ford design leader Moray Callum's own 1976 Bronco was scanned as a proportion reference during development of the 2021 return. [6]

Sources and footnotes

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

  1. Ford 1976 Bronco sales brochure Manufacturer factory literature; pages 2 and 5
  2. Ford first-generation Bronco history Manufacturer history
  3. ClassicBroncos Special Decor research Owner/build-sheet reference
  4. Blue Oval Trucks production numbers Specialist historical compilation
  5. Blue Oval Trucks: 1976 Bicentennial Option Group Historical option reference
  6. Automotive News: Moray Callum's retro ride Trade-press profile

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

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