Ford Unveils Bronco Inspired by Off-Road Racing Champion from 1960s [Video]

In 1966, the first Ford Broncos rolled off the production line as the automaker’s first sports utility vehicle (SUV), setting the tone for a market expected to generate some $333 billion in revenue this year, according to Statista.

The Bronco promised to be a new breed for off-road enthusiasts, who soon started modifying Broncos for off-road racing. Perhaps no one was more legendary for their work modifying Broncos than Bill Stroppe. According to Ford, Stroppe’s work made the brand the competitive force it is today.

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In 1969, Stroppe modified a Bronco that became the first and still the only outright winner of a stock 4×4 at the Baja 1000. Baja races are held on the Baja California Peninsula in Mexico.

Stroppe partnered with Ford motorsports legend …