1971 Ford Bronco Specs & Restoration Guide: The Evolution of a Classic
By 1971, the Ford Bronco had already been on the market for five years, and it had undergone several important changes and improvements. The 1971 model year represents a sweet spot for many Bronco enthusiasts, as it combines the classic styling of the early models with some of the more desirable features of the later first generation Broncos. At HighLine Classics, we have a deep appreciation for the 1971
Bronco, and we’re excited to share our knowledge with you.
What’s New for 1971?
The 1971 model year saw a few key changes to the Bronco. The most significant of these was the introduction of the Dana 44 front axle as standard equipment. The Dana 44 was a much stronger and more durable axle than the Dana 30 that it replaced, and it made the Bronco even more capable off-road.
Another important change for 1971 was the introduction of a new, larger 200-cubic inch inline-six engine, which replaced the 170-cubic-inch six. The 200 was a more powerful and more refined engine, and it provided a welcome boost in performance for base-model Broncos. .
1971 Ford Bronco Specifications
Here’s a look at the key specifications for the 1971 Ford Bronco:
Engine Options
200-cubic-inch Inline-Six: The base engine for the 1971 Bronco was the new 200-cubic-inch inline-six. It produced 120 horsepower and was a significant improvement over the 170-cubic-inch six.
302-cubic-inch V8: The optional engine for the 1971 Bronco was the same 302- cubic-inch V8 that had been introduced in 1969. It produced 205 horsepower and was a popular choice for those who wanted more power.
Transmission
The only transmission available for the 1971 Bronco was a column-shifted three-speed manual.
Axles and Suspension
The 1971 Bronco featured a Dana 44 front axle and a Ford 9-inch rear axle. The front suspension used coil springs and radius arms, while the rear suspension used leaf springs.
Body Styles
The 1971 Bronco was available in the same three body styles as previous years: Roadster, Pickup, and Wagon.
Restoring a 1971 Ford Bronco
Restoring a 1971 Bronco is a rewarding project, and it’s a great way to experience the classic Bronco lifestyle. Here are a few things to keep in mind when restoring a 1971 model:
Engine
Whether you’re restoring a 1971 Bronco with a six-cylinder or a V8, you’ll be happy to know that parts are readily available. The 200-cubic-inch six is a reliable and economical engine, and the 302 V8 is a popular choice for those who want more power. We can help you build the engine of your dreams, whether you’re looking for a stock restoration or a high-performance upgrade.
Axles
The Dana 44 front axle is a desirable feature of the 1971 Bronco, and it’s a major selling point for many enthusiasts. When restoring a 1971 model, it’s important to inspect the axles for any damage or wear and to replace any faulty components.
Interior
The interior of the 1971 Bronco is simple and functional, but it can be customized to meet your specific needs. At HighLine Classics, we offer a wide range of interior options, from stock-style restorations to full custom builds.
Your Bronco Restoration Partner
At HighLine Classics, we’re your one-stop shop for all things classic Bronco. We offer a wide range of services, from basic maintenance to full frame-off restorations. We also have a selection of pre-owned Broncos for sale, so you can find the perfect vehicle to start your own Bronco adventure.
Contact us today to learn more about our services and to start planning your dream Bronco.