1980 Jeep CJ5

Description

"Hey!" this 1980 Jeep CJ5 Renegade shouts to you, "Let's go play in the dirt!" V8-powered, lifted, and full of heavy-duty components, you don't have to worry about playing rough with this Jeep, which is exactly what it was designed to do. The fact that it also looks awesome is simply icing on the cake.

When you really look at it, there's really not much to the CJ5. A basic body tub with doors that are entirely optional, minimalist fenders that really only satisfy the letter of the law, and a hood that still latches itself down with spring-loaded hooks like those on a 1920s Model T. But really, that's the appeal, a simple, rugged machine that can go anywhere, and the fact that it looks so good doing it is a tribute to the quality of the whole concept. Of course, painting it a handsome shade of burgundy definitely helps and this particular CJ doesn't seem to suffer from the usual spots of rust around the wheel arches by virtue of being a southern vehicle all its life and the silver Renegade decals certainly dress it up. Simple black bumpers, a painted grille, rubber fender extensions over those wide-by-huge off-road tires, and a folding windshield all contribute to the elemental experience that only a Jeep owner truly understands.

I suppose you could call the place where passengers sit "the interior" but it's about as exposed as any vehicle this side of a motorcycle. But it's hardly uncomfortable thanks to supportive buckets that feature new seat covers and a back seat that's been upholstered to match. The tub is protected with spray-on bedliner material, so it doesn't mind getting dirty and it'll probably last forever. A rather comprehensive set of gauges are vital for off-road adventures, and while the layout is kind of haphazard, the appeal of the big, round instruments is in their simplicity and form-following-function attitude. And yes, if you do have delicate skin and need some protection from the elements, there's a bikini top that'll at least keep the sun off while you're playing in the dirt.

Jeep was part of the AMC empire, and when the rebuild was performed, they stuck with AMC power under the hood. With a 304 cubic inch V8, the lightweight CJ moves with ease, and is equally happy crawling along in low gear or zipping around town. Someone spent a lot of time under the hood, dressing it the way the factory might have, including a big industrial-grade air cleaner, corporate turquoise engine enamel, and lots of new parts. With a 4-barrel carb performance is impressive, and thanks to those side pipes, it sounds like a proper V8 should. The suspension has been augmented with a modest lift kit and off-road shocks, locking hubs up front, and heavy-duty hardware throughout, so you don't have to be afraid to hit the rough stuff. Flashy Pacer chrome wheels are a traditional off-road look that suits this 1970s Jeep just fine, and they sport genuinely massive 31x10.50-15 off-road radials that dig through the slippery stuff like they have claws.

Jeeps still offer the best fun-per-dollar ratio of anything on four wheels, and with lots of new equipment, this is one that you can enjoy without fear. Call today!