International Trucks

Further testament to Ford truck desire for improved fuel efficiency appeared in 1984 when the Ranger-based Bronco II sport-utility vehicle was added to the lineup. Both the Ranger and Bronco II carried styling cues that linked them to their F-Series and Bronco big brothers, which was probably both helpful and intentional.

Another bit of noteworthy news for 1984 came not in the form of a change or addition, but of a loss. The Ford F-100, a model name that had been around since 1953, was discontinued (as was the E-100 van), probably because its gross vehicle weight (GVW) fell below the threshold that would have allowed it to get by on the less-stringent emission standards that applied to heavy-duty trucks.

But this was more of a historical loss than a sales one, as the slightly beefier F-150, which had been introduced in 1975, absorbed those buyers — as evidenced by the fact it would soon become the nation’s best-selling full-size pickup, and soon after the best-selling vehicle of any type.

Ford entered the compact-SUV arena with the 1984 Bronco II. Introduced early in the 1983 calendar year, it closely followed the Chevrolet S-10 Blazer and GMC  truckJimmy to market in what was essentially a new segment — and was closely followed by the Jeep Cherokee. All were designed in response to the 1979 gas crisis, which is why these direct competitors went on sale at about the same time.

Bronco II was based on the compact Ranger pickup, introduced the previous year. All models came with four-wheel drive and a 2.8-liter (171-cubic inch) V-6. Compared to its big Bronco brother, the Bronco II was shorter by 10 inches in wheelbase and 19 inches in overall length, and — most significantly — lighter by more than 800 lbs. A sporty XLS package added tri-color tape stripes and wheelwell “spats.”

After siring its SUV stablemate, Ranger was given a rest for 1984, and saw no significant changes. Note the similarities between the Ranger and Bronco II, particularly from the cab forward.