Offered between 1965 and 1977 for the 1966 through 1977 model years, the first-generation Bronco holds a special place in the pantheon of 4x4 greats. It also happens to be the most special generation of the Bronco yet, for its box-section ladder frame wasn't shared with any other Ford, Mercury, or Lincoln from that epoch.
Considering that replacement frames haven't been produced since 1977, the aftermarket is booming in this regard. Australian engineering and manufacturing firm Premcar developed one of the best Gen 1 frames out there, designed to accept the 10R80 transmission, naturally-aspirated Coyote V8, and full-time 4WD.
You can't buy Premcar's frame per se, though. Manufactured in the United States by Michigan-based RLE International, said frame is exclusive to Illinois-based Bronco specialist Gateway Bronco. The Aussie company needed two years to develop the Gateway Bronco-exclusive platform, which includes anti-lock brakes, traction control, electronic stability control, as well as custom-designed suspension components.
That's part of the reason why the LUXE-GT restomod in the photo gallery carries a starting price of 400,000 freedom dollars, which is a tremendous amount of cash. On the other hand, remember that Gateway Bronco is arguably the best name in the Gen 1 Bronco space.
The LUXE-GT's ladder frame is reportedly 70 percent stiffer than alternatives from the aftermarket. Premcar's frame also integrates crush zones fore and aft for better protection in the event of a crash. Complemented by a structurally reinforced body painted in white, the frame is a truly tremendous upgrade over Ford's original.
Photo: Gateway Bronco
Beautified by a color-matched Bimini top, the LUXE-GT further sweetens the deal with gradient stripes on the sides, soft-close doors, and – get this – a soft-close tailgate. Birdseye maple wood makes the cargo area genuinely special. Equipped with LED headlights and taillights, this rather expensive restomod sports a four-point roll bar, 18-inch wheels mounted with BFG KO2s, push-button start, and a bi-modal active exhaust.
Of course, power windows and a rearview camera are featured as well. Highlights further include a CarPlay screen with Bluetooth connectivity, air conditioning, all-weather denim upholstery for the door cards, dashboard top, and seats, plus a Focal hi-fi sound system.
The LUXE-GT is 100% road legal, despite sporting a crate engine that doesn't come with emission controls in said crate. The Gen 3 Coyote, which features one throttle body as opposed to two for the fourth generation, is listed on Ford Performance's website with 460 horsepower and 420 pound-feet (570 Nm) of torque to its name.
Limited to 25 units per year, of which 12 orders have already been placed for 2023, the Gateway Bronco LUXE-GT needs 5.3 seconds to reach 60 miles per hour (97 kilometers per hour). Braking to a screeching halt takes an equally impressive 148 feet (45 meters).
After a 1:43 scale model of a Ferrari 250 GTO sparked Mircea's interest for cars when he was a kid, an early internship at Top Gear sealed his career path. He's most interested in muscle cars and American trucks, but he takes a passing interest in quirky kei cars as well. Full profile
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