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The Ford Bronco was a 4x4 SUV produced from 1965 through 1996, initially as a competitor for the Jeep CJ-5 and International Scout. The Ford Bronco II accompanied the Bronco for several years in the 1980s, but the early 1990s saw the large Bronco outlive its little brother.
The full-size Broncos and the successor Expedition were produced at Ford's Michigan Truck Plant.
The Bronco permanently entered popular culture in 1994 as the vehicle in which O. J. Simpson traveled during his (in)famous low-speed chase with police through the Los Angeles area.
1966-1977
The original Broncos were small SUV's, intended to compete with Jeeps and International Scouts. Its small size made it popular for some but unpractical for others; for example they were popular as light-duty snowplows, but had little towing capability.
Engines:
1978-1979
The redesign of the Bronco in 1978 was based on the F100 truck, sharing many chassis, drivetrain, and body components. The increased size allowed them to compete with the full-size SUV's offered by GM ([[Chevrolet Blazer}} and Chrysler Dodge Ramcharger.
Engines:
1980-1986
The second oil crisis of the 1970s increased emphasis on fuel economy and led to the Bronco II design, nearer in size to the compact Ranger pick up and again sharing some chassis and drivetrain parts. However, full-size Broncos continued to be produced.
1987-1991
In 1987, the body and drivetrain of the Full-Size Bronco changed, as it was still based off of the full size F-Series. Again based on F-series trucks in their latest redesign, continued the towing capability and storage space that the compact Bronco II lacked. Along with the body change, also came EFI (electronic fuel injection), which improved power and fuel economy. They were built at the Michigan Truck Plant in Wayne, Michigan on the same line as F150s.
Engines:
1992-1996
An update of the 1987 edition to go along with an F-series truck update. Most changes were visible as 'cosmetics'. Primary changes occured inside of the cab, with changes concentrating in the dash and accessories. No major drivetrain changes occured.
1997
In the 1997 model year, the Ford Expedition, which more effectively competed with GM's Chevrolet Suburban (four doors, comfort, better sales), was introduced as the successor to the Bronco. The Bronco name was dropped.
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