Year by year
Gen 1 · 1966–1977
1966Launch year · three bodies · six then V81967Safety update · first Sport package1968Last roadster · last 289 · Lifeguard safety1969302 V8 · no roadster · record year1970Sport becomes a model · evap tanks1971Dana 44 · Stroppe Baja1972Ranger arrives · last half-cab1973Automatic and power steering arrive1974Detail changes · California emissions1975V8 only · catalytic converter1976Front disc brakes · quicker steering1977Final year · fuel doors · HD 9-inch
Gen 2 · 1978–1979
1978Debut of the full-size Bronco · 351M or 400 V8 · solid axle1979Final solid-axle full-size year · rectangular lamps · catalytic converter
Gen 3 · 1980–1986
1980All-new third generation · TTB front · 300 six returns198117-character VIN · last F-O-R-D hood · last 351M1982Blue oval grille · 351 Windsor · stronger frame · XLS19838.8 rear axle arrives · XLS final year1984351 H.O. with 210 hp · first EEC computer controls1985Fuel-injected 302 · Eddie Bauer debuts1986Final third-gen year · best seller of the generation