1981 Jeep Cherokee

Description

For pure off-roading fun, there's still only one Jeep. Vehicles like this ultra-clean 1981 CJ7 have been a staple of having fun in the mud for decades, and even with all of today's technology and performance, a jeep is still the vehicle to beat when the trail truly turns against you.

Finding an all-steel CJ that hasn't been bashed to death on the rocks, or eaten alive by rust is no easy task, yet this black Laredo shows off its original Arizona bodywork with pride. Sure, it's probably been off-roading a few times, but it certainly doesn't appear that anybody has abused this Jeep, and the extra details throughout indicate that someone truly loved it (the warm desert weather probably helped, too!). The rockers are protected by shiny panels, and the black paint is extremely slick and will be easy to clean. With basic panels and soft doors, there aren't really any panel gaps to align, but the hood snugs down easily with those chrome latches, and the drop-down tailgate shows zero signs of abuse or rust. Simple bumpers have been fitted so as to be both light and effective, and the traditional Jeep grille nestled between those fat fenders is protected by a polished stainless steel grille. Rubber fender flares cover the oversized tires and keep the mudslinging to a minimum, and you'll probably want to lower the windshield at some point for the full frontal experience. Rounding out the package are fresh Laredo decals and a strip kit, accurately re-creating 1981, and to be honest, it looks great!

Inside, it's rugged and basic, with black vinyl high-back bucket seats designed to be cleaned with a hose. The floor has been covered with spray-in bedliner material for the same reason, but that doesn't mean the CJ is bereft of comfort and convenience features; in fact, this might be one of the more luxurious CJs we've seen. There's a full array of gauges, which are critical when you're out in the wilderness, and an AM/FM/CD stereo is present, and a locking center console for valuables. Other desirable upgrades include the automatic transmission and tilt steering column. The soft top and matching doors are easy to remove and stow, and lend the Jeep its traditional military-bred look while still offering decent weather protection.

Power comes from AMC's durable and torquey 304 cubic inch V8, which is a rather rare option but definitely the one you want. It isn't designed for all-out speed, but it's plenty snappy around town, and for off-roading, what you really want is a smooth flow of power (which this engine delivers), good low-speed torque (in spades), and bulletproof reliability (check). It hasn't been modified and was obviously nicely maintained, and the engine was recently treated to a complete valve job and a repainted block to really brighten up the engine bay. Underneath, it's extremely solid with a stock 3-speed automatic transmission, a 2-speed transfer case, and stock axles fore and aft, all of which make this CJ highly maneuverable in the brush. The dual exhaust system has a hearty V8 rumble, which always makes folks do a double-take when they hear it coming from a Jeep, and it rolls on original chrome wheels with brand new 31x10.50x15 Wild Country off-road radials.

If you're looking for adventure, this is the vehicle that'll get you there. Awesome colors, a great pedigree, and lots of recent work all add up to a Jeep that's easy to love. Call today!