17k Original Miles: 1970 Jeep CJ-5

With summer fast approaching, the minds of many will turn to the idea of off-road adventures. Picking the ideal candidate can be challenging, but this 1970 Jeep CJ-5 could be a strong contender. It is a genuine barn find with 17,000 miles showing on its odometer. Lifting the hood reveals the range-topping V6, while the overdrive increases its versatility. The seller has listed the Jeep here on eBay in Calhan, Colorado. They set their BIN at $9,500, and it appears they are firm on that figure.

Launched in 1954, the CJ-5 was a model of longevity. It remained on sale until 1983, with global sales of over 600,000 vehicles. This CJ-5 rolled off the line in 1970 and would have looked stunning in its prime with sparkling Avacado Mist paint. The exterior now looks slightly baked, and it is unclear whether the tired paint would respond favorably to intensive attention using a high-quality polish. If not, the buyer would be left to choose between a cosmetic refresh and preserving this classic as a genuine survivor. On a more positive note, the panels are surprisingly straight and free from significant blemishes, and there is no evidence of penetrating rust. The glass looks good, and the Kelsey Hayes alloy wheels should assist this Jeep when the going gets tough.

Life aboard the CJ-5 represents motoring at its most basic. The buyer doesn’t receive air conditioning or power accessories, and there is no radio. However, this interior’s greatest strength is its practicality. The new seats are trimmed in Black vinyl, and there is no carpet on the floors. That means that mud and slime won’t be an issue, and cleaning the interior after a day of adventure would require little beyond a bucket, a sponge, and a hose. That thought will undoubtedly appeal to many potential owners.

Lifting the hood confirms that the first owner ordered this Jeep with the range-topping 225ci “Dauntless” V6. They teamed the V6 with a three-speed manual transmission and a Warn overdrive for added versatility. Jeep’s 1970 sales literature reports power and torque ratings of 160hp and 235 ft/lb for the Dauntless, but that only tells part of the story. The motor’s low-end torque delivery, which peaks at under 2,000rpm, makes it ideal for clawing its way through the undergrowth and across extremely harsh terrain. The seller states they recently installed a new battery, and the photos indicate the alternator is new as well. They haven’t tried starting the V6, confirming it hasn’t run for twenty-five years. However, it turns freely, meaning that revival may be relatively straightforward.

This 1970 Jeep CJ-5 could be an excellent candidate for those wishing to revive a genuine barn find. It appears free from major rust issues, while the power and torque from its V6 should allow it to tackle some pretty harsh terrain effortlessly. The View and Watch List tallies of 213 and 25, respectively, confirm that it has caught the attention of many enthusiasts seeking outdoor adventures. The sticking point could be the price, which, taken at face value, looks slightly optimistic. However, if the odometer reading is verified, it might be realistic. If that is the case, would you consider pursuing this CJ-5 further?