1979 Jeep Cherokee Chief

Description

Before the current SUV craze, there was only one name in full-sized 4x4 SUVs: Jeep Cherokee. Descended from the Wagoneer, this 1979 Jeep Cherokee Chief is one of the best we've seen, a strong-running off-roader that's sure to attract a lot of attention anywhere it goes, whether it's a car show or a romp in the dirt.

Quite honestly, we haven't seen one of these in years, let alone one this clean. Still wearing the original paint and decals, this Cherokee has lived the easy life with someone who loved it. The angular lines are instantly familiar, although the fact that it has only two doors might be something our younger readers may not have seen before. Don't worry, that's how they were and you'll find that this one still has all the space and capabilities you'd expect. Aside from a few minor touch-ups here and there, the body and paint are in fantastic condition for their age and given these trucks' propensity to rust almost instantly, this one obviously lived in a dry climate because it's quite straight and clean. A few heavy-duty off-road type upgrades have been added, most notably the grille guard up front and the cool roof rack, as well as LED lighting (including the headlights!). There's also a custom rear bumper and a giant spare tire carrier that can handle the big off-road meats this truck is wearing. It certainly looks ready for an adventure, don't you think?

Inside, it's pure 1979 but that's a good thing. Check out the sporty bucket seats that are wearing their original seat covers, the long list of options, and the cavernous cargo bay. This was the top-of-the-line in 1979 and a rather expensive machine, so the upholstery looks and feels upscale, there are neatly tailored door panels, and the carpets are quite plush and show only modest wear. Options include a tilt wheel, cold A/C, and a sunroof overhead that really makes a difference inside. The original radio is gone, replaced by a modern AM/FM/CD stereo head unit and it appears that everything is operational, a real rarity for an AMC product in the '70s! The gauges are clear, bright, and cover all the important stuff and the 65,660 miles showing on the odometer are authentic. As I mentioned, the cargo area is enormous and includes plush carpets and stainless rub strips that dress it up a bit.

The only engine you could get in your Cherokee Chief was a 360 cubic inch V8, and it makes the big SUV feel quite muscular around town. It's obviously the truck's original engine and it has been properly maintained throughout its life so it runs superbly. Recent work includes new gaskets, seals, and hoses, which are particularly important on an off-road vehicle, but it is mostly stock so it retains its good road manners and decent performance. Corporate turquoise engine enamel is bright inside the brown engine bay, and you'll note that it's equipped with power steering and power front disc brakes, so even with those big tires it remains easy to handle. The 3-speed automatic transmission feeds a very advanced transfer case that offers full-time all-wheel-drive, which was a Jeep exclusive in 1979. Heavy-duty axles, twin steering stabilizers, and a Flowmaster exhaust system all make it a lot of fun to drive. Oversized black wheels lend it a hardcore look and carry brand new 33x12.50-15 Cooper off-road radials.

Go try to find another one this nice. If you like vintage off-roaders but enjoy your creature comforts, this Cherokee Chief delivers in a very big way. Call now!