The 1966 Ford Bronco is one of the most iconic and collectible off-road vehicles in automotive history. Introduced as a direct competitor to the Jeep CJ-5 and International Harvester Scout, the first-generation Bronco quickly established itself as a rugged, versatile, and uniquely American 4×4. Among the 1966 Bronco variants, the U13 Roadster stands out as a rare and highly coveted model.
Overview of the 1966 Bronco
Model Year: 1966
Also Known As: 66 Bronco, 66 Ford Bronco
Platform: Early Bronco (First Generation)
Body Styles: U13 Roadster, U14 Half Cab, U15 Wagon
Production Year: First year of Bronco production
The 1966 Bronco marked Ford’s entry into the compact SUV segment. All three initial models shared a 92-inch wheelbase, 4-wheel drive, and a boxy design that emphasized utility over aesthetics.
U13 Bronco Roadster: The Open-Air Original
The 1966 Ford Bronco U13 Roadster is the most rare and collectible version of the original Bronco line.
Key Features:
No Doors or Roof: The U13 Bronco was designed as a minimalist, open-air off-roader.
Removable Door Inserts and Top: A soft top and snap-in doors were optional accessories.
Low Production: Fewer than 5,000 U13 Bronco Roadsters were produced between 1966 and 1968. Only around 2,600 were made in 1966.
No Side Windows: This was part of the stripped-down roadster design.
Why It’s Rare:
By 1968, the U13 Roadster was discontinued due to low demand, making surviving examples—especially unrestored ones—highly valuable.
Value Today:
Restored 1966 U13 Bronco: $100,000+ depending on originality and condition
Unrestored or Barn Find Condition: $40,000–$70,000
U14 Bronco Half Cab: The Compact Pickup
The U14 Bronco, also called the Half Cab, featured a metal bulkhead behind the front seats and a short steel roof. It was designed to serve as a two-door pickup with off-road capability.
Features:
Two Seats with a Steel Bulkhead
Small Pickup Bed
Optional Bench Seat
The U14 was more popular than the U13 but still relatively rare today. It shared the same drivetrain and wheelbase.
U15 Bronco Wagon: The Everyday Classic
The U15 Bronco Wagon was the most practical and highest-selling model of the three. It came standard with a full-length hardtop, side windows, and more creature comforts.
Features:
Full Hardtop Roof
Bench Seats for Up to Five
Optional Rear Bench Seat
The U15 became the default body style for most of the Bronco’s early years.
Engine and Performance
All 1966 Ford Broncos came with a 170-cubic-inch inline-six engine producing 105 horsepower. In March 1966, Ford offered an optional 289 V8 engine in response to consumer demand for more power.
Transmission: 3-speed column-shift manual
Transfer Case: Dana 20 4WD
Axles: Dana 30 front, Ford 9-inch rear
1966 Ford Bronco Collectibility and Market
The 1966 Bronco—particularly the U13 Roadster—has become a favorite among collectors, restorers, and vintage 4×4 enthusiasts.
U13 Roadster: Most rare and valuable
U14 Half Cab: Desirable for its truck-like utility
U15 Wagon: Common, but still very collectible in original condition
If you come across a 1966 Ford Bronco U13 for sale, especially in running or restorable condition, it’s worth serious consideration.
Buying Tips
Check for VIN: Original U13 models have specific VIN tags.
Look for Original Parts: Many U13s have been converted into U15s or U14s over the years.
Frame and Rust Inspection: Rust is common around the cowl, floor pans, and rear quarters.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re searching for a 1966 U13 Bronco for sale, restoring a 1966 Ford Bronco Roadster, or just curious about the history of the 66 Bronco, there’s no denying the cultural and collectible significance of the first-year Ford Bronco lineup. From bronco u13 roadster to bronco u14 and u15 bronco, each body style represents a unique chapter in the Bronco legacy.
If you’re a vintage 4×4 enthusiast, the 1966 Ford Bronco isn’t just a vehicle—it’s a piece of American history.