These days, nearly every automaker builds a variety of SUVs to pamper drivers while offering high ground clearance. So it’s hard to picture a time when a tall four-door vehicle wasn’t the default choice for most families. But squint at this 1970 Jeep Wagoneer recently offered on eBay Motors, and you’ll see the template for most everything we see on our roads now.
In retrospect, however, it shouldn’t be surprising that the pioneer in this market came from Jeep. After all, Jeep has been building the go-anywhere CJ and its forebears since the Second World War. So moving upmarket with the same capability makes a lot of sense.
A Family Wagon That Conquers Trails
In the 1960s, four-wheel drive was unusual. Specialist trucks, including the Jeep, offered 4WD. But getting the sure-footed traction of a four-wheel drive was out of reach for vehicles that could haul an entire family in comfort. Then, the Wagoneer came along.
The Wagoneer was based upon the chassis of the Jeep J-series pickup trucks but gave plenty of room for six people and their stuff. No wonder the same basic Wagoneer lasted for 29 years—from 1962 to 1991.
The Wagoneer was built by three different companies over the years. It started with Kaiser Jeep, followed by American Motors. Finally, Chrysler took over in the late 1980s.
Several engines powered the Wagoneer over the years. The list includes inline sixes made by Kaiser Jeep and AMC—and then V-8s from AMC. A Buick 350 V-8 motivates this 1970 example on eBay. That engine is desirable because parts are more readily available for Buick engines rather than those from AMC.
Imperfections Make an Affordable Driver
The $12,500 Buy-It-Now price reflects a condition below concours quality. A glance at the column shift indicator, with shift positions handwritten in black permanent marker, will confirm those impressions. In addition, the seller mentions that the Wagoneer was painted with a roller using marine bottom paint meant to resist abrasions and rust.
We think that’s just fine. You should protect any vehicle used off-road against the elements, so a rough surface on the bodywork is perfect. This Jeep Wagoneer looks free of any structural rust, meaning it should last a long time. It looks delightful and not the least bit fussy.
The only requirement is that the next owner thoroughly enjoys this high-riding family-oriented Wagoneer.
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This article is meant to provide general guidance only. Automotive maintenance, repair, upgrade, and installation may depend on vehicle-specifics such as make and model. Always consult your owner's manual, repair guide for specific information for your particular vehicle and consider a licensed auto-care professional's help as well, particularly for advance repairs.