It is almost inevitable that SUVs will incur physical damage during off-road adventures. Panel damage is common, while interiors suffer at the hands of mud and other icky substances. However, this 1994 Geo Tracker is a dazzling exception to those rules. It presents superbly, and with only 70,000 miles on the clock, it should offer its new owner years of motoring fun. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Curvette for spotting the Tracker listed here on Craigslist in Spokane, Washington. The seller set their price at $13,500 for this turnkey classic.
Introduced in 1988 for the 1989 model year, the First Generation Geo Tracker was a joint venture between Suzuki and General Motors of Canada. Early examples were built in Japan, while full production commenced in Canada in late 1989. This 1994 example is an absolute gem that rolled off the line wearing vibrant Bright Red. It has led a sheltered life, clocking most of its miles hooked to the back of an RV. The lack of cosmetic imperfections indicates that it hasn’t ventured into the wilderness often. The original paint holds a beautiful shine, and the panels are laser-straight. The decals look crisp, with no checking or other shortcomings. Although the seller doesn’t supply any underside shots, I see no evidence of rust that could spoil the ownership experience. The trim and glass are in good condition, as are the wheels.
I admit that if one aspect of this Tracker truly impresses me, it is the interior. Cloth trim and carpet often suffer when the going gets muddy, but this Tracker is almost perfect. The driver’s seat outer edge exhibits very slight wear, but there is no evidence of developing holes. The remaining upholstered surfaces are immaculate, and with a back seat, this gem could take four people deep into the wilderness. The carpet is spotless, and the dash isn’t cracked or damaged. I can’t spot any aftermarket additions, and it is worth noting that this Geo isn’t lavishly equipped. The buyer receives cloth trim and an AM/FM radio/cassette player. There is no air conditioning, but the heater works perfectly.
The Geo Tracker isn’t a big, heavy vehicle, which means that it never required mountains of power to provide respectable performance. This beauty features Suzuki’s 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 80hp and 94 ft/lbs of torque. The power reaches Planet Earth via a five-speed manual transmission and a dual-range transfer case. The engine’s specifications don’t sound startling, but the reason these cars proved so effective was their low-end torque delivery. The four is remarkably flexible, allowing the Tracker to clamber over harsh territory with the motor barely ticking over. The odometer shows 70,000 miles, but the seller states that most of those were clocked with the Tracker hooked to the back of an RV. They say that it runs and drives perfectly, and is a turnkey proposition for its new owner.
This 1994 Geo Tracker has led a sheltered life, and its overall condition reflects that fact. The Tracker is a surprise packet because, despite its size, it is an accomplished off-roader capable of reaching locations beyond the reach of larger vehicles of the same type. This 1994 example is only the eleventh Tracker we have seen at Barn Finds, and I would stick my neck out and say it is also the best. The seller’s price is at the top end of the market, but the condition justifies it. If delving into the wilderness appeals, would this Geo Tracker be the vehicle you would choose?
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