Vehicle Description
In 1987, Jeep fans had a hard time adopting to the all-new YJ and
its accompanying square headlights, but the years have been kind to
the Wrangler, making it one of the most beloved (and capable)
off-roaders ever built. So if you're looking for a real Jeep with
real off-road cred, perhaps this 1987 Jeep Wrangler will appeal to
you.
All the body panels were new on the YJ but there's no mistaking its
DNA. And while all Wranglers are "Trail Rated," this one looks like
it's had a pretty easy life on the street and not bashing around in
the rough, although the winch and oversized rubber might suggest
otherwise. The handsome burgundy paint sure looks good on the burly
off-roader, giving it a no-nonsense look that probably looks as
good covered in dirt as it does all polished up. Wide fender flares
work with the YJ's increased wheel well clearance to provide more
room for the big tires, plus a big, wide-shouldered look that makes
it look rugged. The grille is the same familiar 7-bar setup that's
been in use since the '40s, and even with the half doors, stripes,
winch, and rear-mounted spare, this truck feel civilized, not
crude. The paint, given that it's more than 30 years old (yes,
really!), still looks great, more proof that it has been
well-maintained and treated like something special.
Forget crude interiors, this Jeep is comfortable enough to drive
every day. The stylish two-tone upholstery is in great condition,
probably due to its unique fabric that's designed for the outdoors
and wears like granite. Civilization arrived in the Jeep in the
form of functional A/C, carpets on the floors, and a full array of
legible instruments arrayed across the instrument panel. The center
stack offers well-marked controls for the HVAC and aftermarket
AM/FM/CD stereo, and the levers for the 5-speed manual transmission
and transfer case fall readily to hand. A full roll cage has been
part of the Jeep spec sheet for decades, and its reassuring
presence off-road is very welcome. A folding top makes the Jeep the
ultimate open-air off-road machine, and even when it's stowed
there's plenty of storage space behind the back seat.
Powered by a "high output" 4.2 liter inline-six, the Jeep makes
short work of just about any situation thanks to smart gearing and
light curb weight. Remember, the point isn't speed, but capability,
so you'll be grateful for its reliability when you're miles from
help. With just 47,644 original miles, it still runs beautifully
and should continue to do so for years to come, and the only
modifications are the air filter and a fuel pressure regulator.
It's been nicely maintained, and the clean engine bay is more proof
that this Jeep has the look, but hasn't spent a lot of time in the
dirt. A smooth-shifting 5-speed manual transmission is linked to a
2-speed transfer case with high and low ranges, so it's happy to
climb over rough terrain barely off idle. The YJ still used the
same leaf spring suspension that the CJ made famous, and as I said,
there's plenty of room in the fenders for the oversized tires on
flashy polished aluminum wheels.
If your idea of fun involves dirt, rocks, and lonely stretches of
wilderness, then this Wrangler is an ideal choice. Refined but not
too civilized, it manages to be both comfortable and effective.
Call today!