The collector car market can be unruly and unpredictable, but one aspect rings true — when one segment begins to take off, similar vehicles aren’t too far behind. And the 4×4 market is no different.
Richard Kane Mansir reports that the last decade has been more than kind of vehicles like the Jeep Wagoneer, Ford Bronco, and Chevy Blazer. Their off-road capabilities and the die-hard fans keep their prices at a steady high. But Jeep has experienced particularly dramatic value boosts in the last five years especially.
For the average car owner, such vehicles are depreciating assets. But collectors would disagree. According to the latest price guide, some Jeep models have more than doubled in value. Here are five of them:
1976-1983 Jeep J-10
The Wagoneer and Cherokee appreciation certainly helped skyrocket the price of this late ’70s/early ’80s Jeep J-10 — it’s up 151% compared to five years ago!
During this era, the J-series found its way onto Jeep’s full-size platform, boasting large cargo capacity to compensate for the lack of passenger accommodation.
Some experts suggest the rarer nature of the model may make it more appealing to collectors since they aren’t often seen roaring down the highway.
That said, there’s a distinct sparseness of parts, making the J-10 trickier to restore than its Ford or Dodge cousins — although many would argue it pays off in the end.
1977-1980 CJ-7 Golden Eagle
Boasting a five-year price increase of 136%, the CJ-7 has brilliant features: elegance, robustness, top-down off-road traveling, and simplicity. And, to spice things up, the Golden Eagle displays giant hood graphics and gold highlights on the inside. No wonder collectors adore the model!
Available in a range of colors, collectors seek the Daisy Duke (i.e., white and tan) with Levi’s package for the classic late-’70s CJ look.
1984-1987 Cherokee Turbodiesel
The XJ Jeep Cherokees have been popular for ages thanks to their maneuverability, unflappable axles, and a variety of transfer cases for modest storage.
Perhaps the most recognizable model is the 190-hp 4-liter from the 1990s, which has experienced a price increase of 130%. But the 1984 to 1987 models beat them with a price hike of 155%.
Those who have shopped for an XJ before will understand the rarity of diesel models, which many collectors dub the reason for the extortionate value increase.
1986-1992 Jeep Comanche
Put a bed behind the front seats of the Cherokee and the Comanche is born.
It holds a unique spot in the market as the manufacturer didn’t see the point in continuing its production. Therefore, the 4×4 never saw its promised 1997 refresh.
That said, factory Grand Cherokee and Cherokee parts work with the Comanche. Thus, the pickup truck is great for trail vehicles and OEM+ rebuilds.
1997-1999 Jeep Wrangler
Exhibiting a five-year price increase of a massive 168%, the Wrangler boasts a four-link rear suspension and a Dana 35 axle like the Grand Cherokee. Receiving a refresh in 2003 for improved features, it’s a highly sought-after model due to its improved handling and extra articulation.
