No one outside of the company has seen the off-roader yet but it’s already a hit. Looking back, several other Ford models have enjoyed this unusually high level of success. The original Mustang introduced in 1964 stands out as one of its best-known home runs. The members of the new-for-1949 range are more obscure than the popular pony car yet they’re the superstars that saved Ford from an uncertain fate.

As we wait for the Bronco to break cover, we’re taking a look at how – and why – Ford developed its 1949 models in record time. Without them, there would likely be no Mustangs or Bronco to speak of.