Sport-utility vehicles (and more recently, crossovers) have become the people-movers of choice in the modern era, but fifty years ago, it was a big deal for a vehicle to delivery everyday driving comfort, all-terrain capability, and generous cargo-carrying space in one package.
The Pick of the Day is a 1978 Jeep Cherokee Chief 4×4 listed for sale on ClassicCars.com by a private seller in Pensacola, Florida. (Click the link to view the listing)
“Fully restored and ready to be a daily driver or just a toy that cruises the beach or the mountains,” the listing begins. “This Chief has every option and trim package offered at the time along with a few extras added during restoration, like the Warn winch.”
This Cherokee comes from the SJ-Series which was produced from 1974 through 1983 and based on the (aptly named, four-door wagon-style) Wagoneer. Since it was offered only in a two-door variant, the Cherokee was marketed as a sporty alternative to its four-door wagon sibling.
This 45-year-old SJ has an attractive neutral two-tone paint scheme and unmistakable Cherokee Chief rocker decals. Upgrades include a custom front bumper, the winch, a dual exhaust system, polished aluminum wheels, and BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A tires.
When new, the SJ-era Cherokee could be outfitted with several different engine choices ranging from a 258cid AMC inline-six to a massive 401cid AMC V8. This Cherokee has been updated with a newer Jasper 5.9-liter V8 that has driven just 3,500 miles since installation. The seller states, “Overall, excellent shape, runs great, and blows cold air!” Torque is sent to all four wheels through a “Quadra-Trac” 4×4 system.
In its day, the Cherokee was given plenty of accolades including Four-Wheeler of the Year when it came out in the mid-1970s. This example takes all the key ingredients of the successful Cherokee and adds a newer motor for max longevity.
“It will be a conversation piece anywhere you go… guaranteed!” the listing states. And speaking of going anywhere, that’s exactly what this Cherokee can do. Winch and all!
The asking price is $38,000 for this modernized Cherokee.
To view this listing on ClassicCars.com, see Pick of the Day.
These were very desirable field cars for those of us who were field reps for AMC/Jeep back then. Had a couple of them myself over the years. Sorry for the engine swap, would have preferred to see a refreshed 401 for authenticity. And, ‘fully restored’? What else did they skip besides the carpeting? Details like that, and the wiring hanging below the dash, make me say “Hmm …”
I agree, that carpet looks like it has been there since it’s inception. Could have gotten a better color to with the charcoal grey?