1978 Ford Bronco II Dimensions, Size & Specs

The Ford Bronco II offers a ground clearance of 198 mm (about 7.8 inches), which is an important dimension for off-road performance. This ground clearance allows the vehicle to effectively traverse uneven terrain, small obstacles, and rough paths without damaging the undercarriage. Combined with its sturdy SUV design and 15-inch rims fitted with 235/75 R15 tires, the Bronco II is well-equipped for moderate off-roading and robust driving conditions.

The curb weight of the Ford Bronco II ranges from 2115 to 2140 kg (approximately 4665 to 4717 lbs), indicating the weight of the vehicle without passengers or cargo but with necessary fluids. Its maximum allowable weight is 2720 kg (around 5999 lbs), which includes passengers, cargo, and any additional equipment. This weight range ensures the vehicle maintains stability and robustness while accommodating a reasonable payload for an SUV of its class during that era.

The Ford Bronco II's dimensions—4580 mm (180.3 inches) in length, 2014 mm (79.3 inches) in width, and 1918 mm (75.5 inches) in height—mean it will generally fit into a standard residential garage, though with limited extra space. Typical garage widths range from 2400 mm (around 94.5 inches) to 3000 mm (118 inches), and lengths are often about 6000 mm (236 inches). Due to its width, you will have roughly 400-1000 mm (15-39 inches) of clearance on either side depending on garage size, so maneuvering space inside the garage might be tight but manageable.

The Bronco II's ground clearance of 198 mm (7.8 inches) paired with its tire size of 235/75 R15 (which corresponds to approximately a 29.9-inch overall tire diameter) mounted on 15-inch rims enhances the vehicle's ability to smoothly navigate off-road terrains. This combination provides a good balance of wheel articulation and traction, enabling the SUV to handle dirt, rocks, and shallow water obstacles. The moderately tall tire sidewalls also help absorb shocks from rough surfaces, contributing to a stable ride.

Compared to the original Ford Bronco (first generation, 1966-1977), the Bronco II is notably larger in length and width but maintains a similar height. The original Bronco was roughly 4000 mm (157 inches) long and narrower at about 1900 mm (75 inches) wide, making the Bronco II both longer and wider at 4580 mm (180.3 inches) in length and 2014 mm (79.3 inches) in width. This dimensional increase aimed to provide more interior comfort and off-road stability, though the Bronco II still stayed compact enough for maneuverability, reflecting a design evolution towards a more SUV-like vehicle.

During the late 1970s, the Ford Bronco II was competitive in size and weight compared to other compact SUVs. At 4580 mm (180.3 inches) in length and weighing roughly 2115-2140 kg (4665-4717 lbs), it was somewhat larger and heavier than its contemporaries like the Jeep Cherokee XJ, which was shorter and lighter. The substantial curb weight reflects robust construction, while its width and height made it more spacious inside and offered a commanding driving position, appealing to buyers wanting a capable yet manageable SUV for both urban and outdoor use.

The Bronco II from 1978-1979 comes with 15-inch rims fitted with 235/75 R15 tires. The tire width of 235 mm and aspect ratio of 75 means the tires have relatively tall sidewalls which help absorb shocks from uneven surfaces. The 15-inch rim size was common for SUVs of the period, providing a balance of strength and wheel diameter for off-road and on-road stability. This tire setup contributes significantly to a comfortable ride in different conditions and improves traction and durability, especially in rugged environments.

While exact interior volume data is less commonly detailed for the Bronco II, its exterior dimensions—length 4580 mm (180.3 inches), width 2014 mm (79.3 inches), height 1918 mm (75.5 inches)—suggest a relatively spacious cabin for up to four passengers comfortably with moderate cargo capacity. The SUV was designed to balance passenger comfort with utility, making it practical for both daily use and recreational activities. Its compact but tall body style provides good headroom and an elevated driving position typical of SUVs.

The 1978-1979 Ford Bronco II was designed as a compact, versatile SUV that filled the niche between a full-size SUV and smaller off-road vehicles. Its purpose was to offer consumers an agile, yet rugged vehicle capable of handling both urban settings and off-road adventures. The Bronco II represented Ford's response to growing demand for smaller SUVs with four-wheel drive capabilities. Its size, weight, and ground clearance all reflect a balance between comfort, capability, and maneuverability during a period when the SUV market was evolving.