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.
Source: www.classiccars.com