We’ve seen lots of ups and downs over the past few years in the classic vehicle market, but there’s one category of vehicles we seem to overlook: those that will rebound slightly and reside at a strong price point for the foreseeable future. Let’s face it: lots of vehicles spiked and people bought at an elevated price point that would be difficult to repeat. That’s certainly unfortunate, but it shows you how important it is to pay attention to the fundamentals of any market. In the case of classic SUVs and 4x4s, I don’t think we’ve seen the market truly rise to where it should be at this juncture, and that’s why gorgeous specimens like this 1982 Jeep Grand Wagoneer listed here on eBay likely still have some ways to go in terms of future values. Thanks to Barn Finds reader T.J. for the tip.
For the longest time, I’ve felt like of all the vehicle segments, vintage trucks were the most misunderstood and poorly marketed. It’s different from someone who pays six-figures for a 21-window VW Bus and then realizes how miserable they are to drive; there’s really not much you can do with an old Bus besides use it to look like a surfer or as expensive decor in front of a trendy clothing store that never makes any money. An SUV, however, that actually has off-road chops is a vehicle with very real value at its most basic level: you can still use a Grand Wagoneer like an SUV without feeling like you’re suffering for the experience.
Leather seats, tons of space, power features, and ample torque all make for a vehicle that’s enjoyable to spend time in. Yes, the Grand Wagoneer like so many other vehicles got an artificial bump during the pandemic craze, but that was to be expected – after all, the Grand Wagoneer is the poster child for being parked outside your beach house or ski chalet. But they’re also still being used in places where the tin doesn’t rust because they’re downright durable. Yes, they rust, and yes, the vacuum system can be a nuisance like anything from this era, but when it’s fully sorted, what a rig it is with full-time four-wheel-drive and respectable road-holding manners for something this ancient and big.
Really, its age is the common complaint about the Grand Wagoneer, since it dates back several decades – quite literally to the early 60s. When the Grand Wagoneer was in its final years, it was still rolling with a carbureted V8 against the likes of the fuel injected Range Rover County and FJ80-series Toyota Land Cruiser. Really, it was a dinosaur, but it’s one that is about as American as cherry pie and fireworks with an attitude that effectively screams, “I’m old, a fuel hog, and handsome – get over it.” The Grand Wagoneer shown here looks quite tidy with no obvious rust and a well-preserved interior, and the seller is asking for a Buy-It-Now of $25,500.
Good looking Old School Wagoneer! Always think of these being outlawed by the FIA re: offroad rallys after all the hue and cry after the shellacking “Moby Dick” shelled out in Michigans Press On Regardless Rally in 1973.
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Would gladly shell out the cash to replace the carb with an aftermarket FI instead of having to suffer the headaches of the Range Rover air suspension and rust. Too, the electrical issues are just part and parcel of owning almost any English SUV of the era.
At the opposite end of the spectrum of course is the Land Crusher, pushing the envelope of practically unbreakable and more common accordingly.
Maybe a little pricey for many of us but this one is a remarkably well cared for ‘80’s iteration of a decent SUV.
PS
Period correct cup coozy on the floor there😆atop the what appears to be shag carpeting.
Lose the silly steering wheel cover..
Good find TJ and another great Jeff L piece-thoughtful pros and cons discussion sir.
Seems to be a very well cared for vehicle however at that price point I’m probably going to look at a sorted Land Cruiser just based on durability and longevity. Still a great find and excellent write up of piece of American motoring history.