What do Ford vehicles such as the first-generation GT, final-generation Thunderbird, and S197 Mustang have in common? One word: retrofuturism, which resulted in modern vehicles with heritage-inspired styling. The current Bronco is another example of that hybrid approach; the 60th Anniversary Bronco Roadster Concept that Jay Leno drives in the video below takes retrofuturism to a new level.
When the all-new, sixth-generation Bronco debuted as a 2021 model (after being absent for 25 years), it was clear that the first-generation model (1966-1977) inspired its looks. Back in the early days of the Bronco, Ford offered it in Sports Utility (single-cab pickup), two-door Wagon, and roofless and doorless Roadster body styles, the latter — and most visually interesting — of which was chosen as the basis for the 60th Anniversary Roadster Concept.
Developing the Roadster was more than just a matter of making it look like its ancestor. Bronco chief designer Rob Gelardi and his team had to approach the project with a certain mindset: one focused on eliminating anything excessive, another focused on simplifying the vehicle. Judging by the EcoBoost I-4-powered concept’s appearance, it seems that they succeeded. With its matte Wimbledon White finish, vintage-style bumpers, slotted Fifteen52 Analog HD wheels, and rear tailgate, the reborn roadster certainly bears a strong resemblance to its predecessor. The “Redster” trim on the lower body is a new touch, but it echoes the old-school roadster’s “contrails” over the rear wheels.
The elimination of the doors and roof, manual gearbox, low-back bucket seats covered in the same silver “diner vinyl” used on the original Bronco, and small open rear storage area strengthen the similarities between the two rigs.
Given the popularity of the current Bronco, if Ford could only build a street-legal production version of the 60th Anniversary Bronco Roadster Concept, it likely would sell every single one of them. However, I wouldn’t hold my breath waiting for that to happen — I’d be content watching the below Jay Leno’s Garage video to see the one-off in action.
