Minneapolis Street Sighting: Jeep Grand Wagoneer

I have a soft spot for certain "timeless" SUVs; the original Range Rover, the Toyota Land Cruiser, the '73-'87 GM fullsizers, the Dodge Ramcharger, and the Jeep Grand Wagoneer. As far as SUVs go, nothing can be the 1970s to early 1990s as far as toughness goes. So many of this breed of virtually indestructible SUVs got used as they were intended to that finding a clean, unmodified, undamaged version is tough here in the rustbelt. But, they certainly do survive.
This particular Grand Wagoneer is real beauty. Not only has it remained in stock shape, it doesn't have a single ounce of salt-damaged metal on it. It surely looks showroom fresh, not only based off the paint that just screams "1980s luxury", but based on the unpeeled wood appliques as well. It's once in a blue moon that I see a 1980s vehicle in amazing condition here in Minnesota. Not only am I amazed about the fact that it has no rust anywhere on it, but the fact that all the trim is there simply astounds me. Chryslers are notorious for loosing bits and pieces as if they were being played with by a two-year old. This example is stunning, though.
The beige paint is incredibly shiny, almost appearing to be a garage queen when it isn't driven. The wood applique is in amazing shape. No rips, no tears, and no peeling to be found. Same story for all the original badging.
Since this particular example does without the AMC badging, it's probably a post 1987 vehicle. Even so, for a 20 some odd year old truck that suffers from a rather chronic rust problem, this example was absolutely pristine. These trucks command big money because of their extremely loyal following; like Land Rovers, these GWs in great shape are almost worth their new MSRP in today's dollars. Finding a well-optioned 1988-1990 model like this one will set you back about $15,500-or more. If you want one of the more sought-after ones with the overhead console, and wood interior bits, expect to fork over $35 large. Yes, I said $35,000. A more sedate, common version is still going to bring around $10,000. However, if you look around, deals can be had, provided the seller doesn't know the value of what he or she has.
Would I recommend buying one? Absolutely, if you are up to the task of preserving it. Why preserve it? These rigs are not very common at all. They weren't when new, either. Would I recommend it if you needed a vehicle to do well in the snow? Of course. The downside, though, is, like other Chrysler products, the paint protection is rather poor. When rust starts, it doesn't stop. So if you are one to daily-drive your vehicle, the Wagoneer isn't the truck for you. If you want something to stand out, and have the means to take excellent care of your vehicle? Sure, go ahead and buy one. It's well worth it.