1979 Jeep Wagoneer

Description

This 1979 Jeep Wagoneer is the original go-anywhere station wagon. We take SUVs for granted today, but in the 1970s, if you wanted a 4-door wagon that could climb a mountain, the Jeep store was the only place to go. With V8 power, a sophisticated 4-wheel-drive system, modern amenities, and enough room for the whole family, these Jeeps represent the beginning of an entirely new category of vehicles.

You're used to seeing these with wood paneling, but the originals had no such pretensions and came pretty much the way you see this one today. The Jeep bodywork is easy to recognize even at a distance and for a vehicle that's more than 35 years old, this one is remarkably well preserved. It's been restored as needed over the years, but never warranted a full dis-assembly thanks to an easy southern life, giving it a sturdy all-of-a-piece feeling going down the road. The bodywork is in good order, just about the way you'd expect for a vehicle with this one's capabilities: not perfect, but certainly nice enough to be driven with pride. The paint has been re-sprayed in its original color and although it does show some signs of use and age, quite honestly there's nothing that says all-weather competence like this Wagoneer. A few chrome pieces add distinction, including the window surrounds, big Jeep grille, and a shiny luggage rack up top that's practical as well as handsome.

The tan interior is spacious, perfect for family vacations to that out-of-the-way spot most folks don't know about. The control layout should be familiar to anyone who has driven a full-sized Jeep product of the era, with a fairly comprehensive array of gauges for the driver and plenty of comfort and convenience items. A column-mounted automatic transmission works with the sophisticated 4-wheel-drive system to ensure that you've always got traction and things like the AM/FM/CB radio, A/C (fully functional, by the way), and a tilt steering column make it feel far more luxurious than its price would suggest. The carpets are brand new, and cover floor boards that have been professionally coated with bed-liner, should you want bring the elements inside the cabin. Door panels and seat covers are original and in great condition and the back seat is spacious enough for a no-complaints road trip from anyone you put back there. Of course, there's also the massive cargo bay, which is neatly carpeted and looks like it would carry just about anything you could imagine.

AMC's rugged and torquey 360 cubic inch V8 was standard equipment and with a recent top-end freshening, this one is not only fresh but drives superbly. The under-hood area is beautifully detailed and is very correct, from the air intake to the factory engine enamel on the block, to the ultra-clean firewall and inner fenders. Turn the key and it starts easily and has a muscular V8 sound thanks to a correct single exhaust system. Underneath, you'll be amazed by how clean this Wagoneer is (especially if you've ever been under one of these before) and it looks like it's never been anywhere more challenging than a gravel driveway. Recent shocks give it a very smooth ride and with power steering and brakes, this big wagon handles well and is still a great choice for today's modern world. Industrial-looking and correct steel wheels are a favorite 4x4 look and they're wrapped in right-sized 235/75/15 Firestone all-terrain radials.

With a 2-page list of new parts, this expertly maintained Wagoneer is a rare find. There are plenty of later Grand Wagoneers around, but very few like this. Nicely preserved and maintained by a meticulous owner, this truck is ready to be enjoyed but won't last long, so call today!