There’s no doubt that some classic vehicle owners make some unusual decisions. Such is the case with this 1982 Jeep CJ-8 Scrambler and its owner. After performing a “no expense spared” restoration on the Jeep, the owner has elected to place it on the market. Therefore, their loss could be your gain. Located in Riverview, Florida, you will find the CJ-8 listed for sale here on eBay. The bidding has been pretty frantic on this classic, pushing the price beyond the reserve to $38,525. I have to say a huge thank you to Barn Finder T.J. for spotting this gem for us.

Apart from “stunning,” there are few words to describe the visual impact this Scrambler makes. Its color combination of Black and Copper Brown makes a bold statement and ensures that this Jeep will command attention wherever it goes. The owner has been meticulous in his quest for perfection, utilizing mainly NOS parts to retain the vehicle’s originality. The paint shines beautifully and cloaks panels that are laser straight. There is no evidence of prior accident damage and not a hint of rust. The underside shots reveal floors and a frame that are spotlessly clean and wear a consistent covering of protective undercoat to help the Scrambler remain rust-free. The timber trim and chrome appear showroom fresh, as are the wheels wrapped in new BF Goodrich tires. The glass is flawless, and cosmetically, this Jeep seems to need nothing.

With 110hp and 205 ft/lbs of torque finding its way from the 258ci straight-six engine through a three-speed automatic transmission and a dual-range Dana 300 transfer case, the Scrambler could climb its way into some pretty inaccessible locations. Its ten-inch longer wheelbase compared to the CJ-7 makes it less maneuverable in tighter spots, but the inclusion of power steering and a bit of forward planning by the driver should allow it to negotiate most obstacles that Mother Nature can throw at it. Given the exterior presentation, it is no surprise that lifting the hood reveals a spotless engine bay. Its appearance gives the impression that this Jeep has recently rolled off the showroom floor, and it doesn’t flatter to deceive. The seller indicates that it has a genuine 45,000 miles on the clock and that it runs and drives like new. There are no fluid leaks or other nasty gremlins that the buyer would need to tackle.

Vehicles of this type and age can have a history of hard use, with mud and other icky substances wreaking havoc on trim and carpet. If this Jeep has been through those types of experiences, it no longer shows any ill effects. The upholstered surfaces are spotless, as are the dash and pad. The carpet is in as-new condition, while the gauge lenses and markings look crisp and clear. I keep mentioning aspects of this Scrambler presenting in showroom condition, but that wouldn’t stretch credibility with the interior. It needs nothing, and the inclusion of factory air conditioning should make the off-road adventures a comfortable experience. The owner purchased a new Classic radio with Bluetooth, and while he hasn’t installed the unit, he includes it in the sale.

If you weren’t in a position in 1982 to buy one of the 7,759 Jeep Scramblers that rolled off the line in that production year, perhaps your luck has changed. The overall condition of this example is close to perfect, and you will struggle to find a nicer one in today’s market. It would have cost its original owner around $7,600 when they drove it off the showroom floor, which equals $22,150 today. The current bid remains well above that figure, but its overall condition and rarity may well justify it. Hagerty lists a #2 condition at around $32,200, although they specify $44,400 for a Concours vehicle. However, I prefer to look at current offerings in the market and recent sales results as a more accurate guide because these reflect what people are actually willing to pay. These suggest that this Scrambler should have little trouble topping $40,000 and that it could nudge beyond $45,000. The current record sales price stands at $55,000, which is well beyond Hagerty’s valuation. It has already attracted an impressive thirty-two bids, suggesting a few people like what they see. It could be worth monitoring this auction because with the vehicle’s overall condition and the bidding intensity, it might be a case where this 1982 Scrambler threatens the existing record.