You wouldn’t think of a base model of being inherently appealing, but when a certain model begins to disappear from circulation due to general attrition, rust, or both, it can suddenly become a selling point. Why? Well, if a vehicle like a Jeep Wrangler, that is already prone to abuse, survives in any trim level, you start to pay attention. And, knowing how often the base spec is more likely to be abused and discarded, it makes finding a survivor like this 1989 Jeep Wrangler in New Mexico even more of an accomplishment. Find it here on eBay with bids to $5,800 and no reserve.
Firstly, the YJ has become a bit of an item in recent years. Those square headlights are synonymous with the 1990s in terms of Jeep history, and the look has come back into vogue along with most enthusiast vehicles from that era. The ones that command the most attention are the Islander and Sahara editions, but those go for big money if found in mint or otherwise preserved condition. And really, aside from decals, upholstery, and some perceived scarcity, are they dramatically better than this super clean base model? Probably not – especially since this one has the 4.2L inline-six engine.
The 4.2L holds sentimental value for me. My best friend in high school was a Jeep fanatic, and I can remember the day he brought his truck home. It was an ’89 like this one, and similarly equipped with the rarely seen automatic transmission. I remember thinking it was a 4.0, like other Jeeps from the era, but he was quick to correct me that his truck had the larger engine, a whopping 4.2 versus a 4.0! How silly of me. The truck shown here has just over 101,000 miles so it’s no spring chicken, but these are hearty engines that don’t cost much to run beyond oil changes and spark plugs.
Despite the mileage, the interior is in excellent condition, and suggests that along with the preserved exterior, this Jeep has been in the care of enthusiast ownership. It is, however, the absolute blandest of color schemes imaginable, with a tan exterior and matching tan interior! Base spec with the inline six plus tan on tan suggests a first owner who wanted a truck that would be bulletproof and absolutely blend into the background. Ironically, given it was in New Mexico most of its life, it would literally blend in to a desert landscape! This Jeep is a true survivor and could be a smart buy if the reserve is below $10,000.
Believe our buddy Howard has a similar unit, 5sp, but w the rugged AMC 2.5 4pot.
You know, it’s pretty tough to quit commenting when these come up. Nice “Wrongler” and it’s rectangle, not square( right Rw?) To be clear, I have a base YJ, this is actually a well optioned Jeep. The 6, the automatic, that I sorely wish I had( not available until ’95 with the 4 cylinder) a much fancier interior, AND, a plausible number for this Jeep. With 230 viewers, there’s no question demand for a clean Jeep under $10gs is still attractive, WITH a 6, that is. Neighbor had a really nice one for sale, 4 cylinder and it sat. The 4 cylinder is adequate, but like all 4 cylinders, has to be driven too hard to be as dependable as the 6. Hardtop too, I wouldn’t have a Jeep without one where I live. Potential buyers, check the frame under the skid plate. Many times, it’s the only thing holding it together, even if it looks this nice topside, so beware. I wouldn’t drag your feet on this one.
I like it. I’m kind of a sucker for base models for some reason, and it appears to be the same color as a 1980 CJ5 I owned way back when. I don’t mind the automatic, but I think it won’t have overdrive, whereas the 5 speed would. Could be wrong, though.
Wouldn’t the base model be 2WD?
As is the case with current model Wranglers, all Wrangler YJ trim levels were four-wheel drive.
I’ve never heard of a 2wd CJ.
As much as I prefer the round headlights if this was a manual I would be interested in it. Solid and clean, with a great motor.
And not prices at $45k, like the previous one posted.
$10k and under the is a good price.
Right you are, Rw. The 2wd JKs were 4dr and only lasted until ’09 or ’10. No 2dr 2wd Jeeps other than Dispatchers that I know of.
Would I like it more with a 5-speed? Sure. Would this be alright? Absolutely. I know that there were Saharas, Islanders, Renegades and it could have been a 2 seater, but aren’t all YJs rather base?
Ok, I misspoke last time I commented on the YJ that was quite expensive. YJ headlights are rectangular. Don’t know why I said square. How about not round? Will that work? This looks like a very nice Jeep but I prefer the manual transmission. The bid is up to $9,100 and there is only two bidders. With three days left the 10K “good deal” threshold will most likely be exceeded.