10 Cool Jeeps We Love
Jeeps are timeless, legendary, and affordable off-roaders. But that doesn’t mean they’re all created equal. Can you guess which cool Jeeps are the best on the block?
Written by Elaine Duvet
Reviewed by Kathleen Flear
If you’re ready for an off-road adventure this summer, what better to take than a decked-out
Jeep
. Known for their affordability, performance, and endurance these Jeeps are too cool for school.Cool Jeeps: Start your collection here
When it comes to cool Jeeps, we’re big fans of the SJ platform, which is appreciating at rapid speed. Specifically, the collection includes the 1974-1983 Jeep Cherokee, 1963-1983 Jeep Wagoneer, and 1984-1991 Jeep Grand Wagoneer.
Engines for these family friendly Jeeps range between a V8s, an AMC 1-6, or even a Buick V8. Buyers can find these vehicles in “rear-wheel drive, full-time four-wheel drive (with or without a low range), or part-time four-wheel drive with a two-speed transfer case,” according to
MotorTrend
.You remember how cool the Jeep Wrangler YJ was in the '90s? Jurassic Park? Back to the Future II? Not only can this Jeep escape at T-Rex, but it was also a well-received replacement model for the beloved CJ. The new YJ offered drivers more ride comfort while still incorporating military styling and off-roading capabilities.
However, not everyone was a fan of the new rectangular sealed-beam headlights. Buyers had the choice of a standard 2.5-liter AMC I-4 engine or an optional I-6 engine. While two-wheel drive came standard, the majority of YJ’s sported a four-wheel-drive system. If you’re lucky, you can find one for under $5,000.
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Cool Jeeps with great names
The Jeep Comanche was around 30 years before the 2020 Jeep Gladiator. Based on the Jeep Cherokee XJ, the 1986 Comanche came in two different bed lengths and a single-cab body. According to MotorTrend, “The Jeep Comanche had unibody construction for the cab and front clip, mated to a body-on-frame setup under the cargo bed.”
Similar to the Cherokee, the Comanche originally had a 2.5-liter I-4 engine or a 2.8-liter V6. For 1987, the V6 was upgraded to an AMC 4.0-liter I-6, and a 2.1 2.1-liter turbodiesel I-4 engine was also an option. A four-wheel-drive pickup with an I-6 engine and a five-speed manual transmission is the way to go.
With a great name like the Jeepster Commando, what’s not to like? The auto is a retro take on the 1960s off-roading scene. “Unlike its predecessor, the new-for-1967 Jeepster Commando offered four-wheel drive, as well as an optional Buick-sourced Dauntless V-6 engine. The standard Hurricane 2.2-liter I-4 was actually quite similar to the Go-Devil four found in the original Jeepster,” MotorTrend tells us.
In 1972, the SUV dropped the “ster” and was then known as the Jeep Commando. The Commando also received some upgrade styling and removed the seven-slat grille and separate fenders. The new standard engine was a 3.8L AMC 232 I-6. These go for about $15,000 on the aftermarket.
Based on the iconic Jeep CJ-7, the 1981-1986 Jeep Scrambler CJ-8 has a longer wheelbase by 10 inches and offers a 2.5-liter I-4 base engine. Drivers can also opt for a 4.2-liter I-6, and in 1981 the Scrambler offered a special 5.0-liter V-8 called the AMC 304. Expect to spend at least $20,000 for this capable off-roader.
MORE: The 12 Best Jeep Accessories
Oldies but goodies
One of the slowest Jeeps ever, the 1975 Jeep CJ-Renegade 4x4 can reach 60 mph in a whopping 11.4 seconds. The auto gets its power from a Willys Hurricane I-4 engine. It also features bucket seats, a bikini top, and a rear roll bar.
According to MotorTrend, “The Willys Jeep Station Wagon (1946-1964) and Truck (1947 to 1965), capitalized on the success and notoriety Willys gained in World War II building the MB general-purpose ‘Jeep.’”
Did you know these Willys used the same engine as the military Jeep and related CJ-2A? They housed the 2.2-liter Go-Devil I-4 and either a two- or four-wheel drive. These military-inspired rugged off-roaders have classic post-war styling and can be found as low as $15,000. Pristine condition Willys go for around $35,000.
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