- Seller: Anthony A
- Location: Meridian, Idaho
- Mileage: 98,477 Shown
- Chassis #: J9M83EC025265
- Title Status: Clean
- Engine: 304 V8
- Transmission: 4-Speed Manual
Purchasing a classic where the hard work is done is tempting, especially if the vehicle is a turnkey proposition that a new owner can enjoy immediately. Such is the case with this 1979 Jeep CJ-5. The current owner has splashed some cash on this beauty, with the panel and paintwork fairly new. It is a rock-solid, rust-free off-roader featuring the range-topping V8 under the hood. There is scope for the winning bidder to personalize this ride, although leaving it untouched is a viable approach. The owner feels it is time for this Jeep to find a new home, and has listed it exclusively with us at Barn Finds Auctions.
The CJ-5 enjoyed a long and illustrious production run, with examples gracing showrooms from late 1954 until 1983. The vehicle evolved during that period as the company refined the design. Our feature Jeep rolled off the line in 1979 and presents exceptionally well. The owner lavished care and attention to ensure no nasty surprises are awaiting potential buyers. He massaged the panels until they were dead straight before applying a fresh coat of Olympic White paint. It shines nicely, with no evidence of significant flaws or defects. This is easily understood because only a short time has passed since the work ended. The Jeep’s beauty is more than skin deep because the frame was blasted and undercoated to keep future rust problems at bay. The result is a CJ-5 that is as solid as the day the first owner took delivery. The bikini top is in excellent condition, and the windshield is crystal clear. Rounding out the exterior is a fresh set of wheels wrapped in tires from the good folks at BF Goodrich.
This Jeep’s interior is a model of simplicity and practicality. It also presents as impressively as the exterior. The painted surfaces received a refresh during the recent refurbishment and appear to be perfect. The Black vinyl seat covers are free from wear and distress, and when combined with the undercoated floor, make the interior hard-wearing and low-maintenance when the buyer delves into areas featuring mud and slush. They could add rubber mats to lift the overall presentation without spending a fortune, but doing so will be a matter of personal taste. One notable practical feature is the sturdy color-matched roll bar. I always work on the theory that it is better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it. Delving into the wilds can bring unforeseen hazards, and there’s no doubt the new owner would welcome the roll bar if things do go wrong. The gauges feature clear lenses and crisp markings, while the AM/FM radio/CD player provides in-car entertainment wherever this CJ-5 ventures.
Buyers could order a 1979 CJ-5 with a 258ci six under the hood that provided respectable performance. However, this Jeep’s first owner threw caution to the wind by selecting the range-topping 304ci V8. It sends 119hp and 229 ft/lbs of torque to the road via a four-speed manual transmission and a dual-range transfer case. The low-end torque delivery of the V8 makes it a better proposition than the six for crawling over harsh terrain. It is also a more accomplished vehicle on the open road without bringing a significant fuel consumption penalty when compared to the smaller powerplant. Potential buyers can consider this classic a turnkey proposition. The owner confirms that it runs and drives well, meaning that the winning bidder could indulge in some immediate off-road adventures while the weather remains fine and warm.
This 1979 Jeep CJ-5 is a wonderful classic offering an opportunity for immediate enjoyment and adventures. The winning bidder could leave it untouched, although there is scope for personalization if they choose to add mats, cosmetic enhancements, or practical items like a winch. The attraction of these vehicles is that they enjoy a well-earned reputation for longevity. Therefore, I see no reason why it couldn’t still be plying the roads or venturing through the undergrowth for many years to come. If you long for that type of life, it might only be a bid away.
Bid On This Auction
ddh2153 bid $4,300.00 2024-08-09 08:18:19
Lyn bid $4,000.00 2024-08-09 07:14:07- ddh2153 bid $3,750.00 2024-08-08 20:24:06
- Lyn bid $3,500.00 2024-08-07 17:20:30
- ddh2153 bid $3,000.00 2024-08-07 17:05:57
- Lyn bid $2,500.00 2024-08-07 07:57:45
- ddh2153 bid $2,000.00 2024-08-06 14:21:26
- Lyn bid $1,500.00 2024-08-06 11:06:50
Nic bid $1,000.00 2024-08-06 10:05:06
Splendid in all its simplicity. Drive it with respect or it’ll bite you.
Indeed Nelson. In 1980 had 78 CJ 5 with a 304. It would go anywhere except around a curve fast, it threw me right out and I got a big ouch. I was lucky tho. I pulled into a gas station one night & happened upon good friend who was filling up his built CJ 5. We talked while getting gas, upon leaving I turned West and drove on, he turned East, gunned it, and lost control and hit old brick barber shop building which collapsed right into his lap. I didn’t learn until the next day he’d been killed.
Similar story, Butcher. The year after graduation one of my classmates was killed while driving his. Young energetic farm boy who should have known better. Maybe too much freedom and celebration. Still think about him 45 years later.
Is there any way to see this when I head to Idaho? This is where I am moving and wish to see it and drive it first.
Can’t skip a Jeeper post. It’s a beaut, although the wheels may be subjective, and a CJ didn’t need a V8. Fact is, not really designed for one, and not needed. In the “3 little bears” mentality, the V8 was too much, the 4 cylinder not enough, the 6 was just right. I disagree, a 6 will pull down a lot lower than a V8, and it’s not about brute power. Newsflash, a Jeep was created to go through rough conditions, and never made to be a 1/4 mile hide scorcher.
Make no mistake, I sure like it, and a CJ is a little rough around the edges, compared to say, my YJ, and beyond, but if you want a CJ with attitude, here you go.
I liked the inline six as well, but when by brother rebuilt his with a fiberglass body back in the late 80s he added a small block chevy. It wasn’t fast because of the gearing used, but it would crawl through or over almost anything. We had a lot of fun in the Pine Barrons with that thing. I got to drive it for a week while my Honda was blown up and it was indeed a bit twitchy on the road with that short wheelbase.
I had a 74 CJ5 and I ordered it new. I talked to several friends with a 258 cu./ in. and they got terrible gas mileage. I decided on the 304 cu.in. and did not have any regrets.My performance was great and gas mileage was much better than the 258 Cu.In. I wish that I had it back.
My dad owned a V8 CJ5, whilst waiting for his new troopie.
He should have kept the CJ5, it was unstoppable off road. But I do conside the troopie had more room.
I hope this one finds a home that can appreciate it awesome off road capilities.
PS, I owned and XJ Cherokee, loved it.