All this hype around the return of the Ford Bronco is making us nostalgic. If you could bring back one of these Jeep icons, which would it be and why? Let’s take a peek inside history’s garage…
Jeep Comanche 1985-1992
Before there was ever a Jeep Gladiator, there was a Jeep Comanche. The perfect blend of class and charisma, it was both rugged and robust. The compact pickup was introduced in 1985 and croaked at the ripe age of 7 in 1992. The Comanche was the spiritual successor to the Jeep Scrambler and though it certainly was not the most popular model in the Jeep brotherhood, it seems to be slowly becoming a classic over time.
While credible reports surfaced of the common rust issue that many U.S. 80’s vehicles suffered, many claimed the Comanche had “unheard of longevity” for its production era. And not only that, but perhaps the most surprising fact we found on the old timer was its international records held.
No seriously, back in the day, the Comanche set 7 speed marks for trucks and inherited 6 national and international records for vehicles of any kind (including passenger cars)! According to Top Speed, it set benchmarks for one-km, one-mile, and 10-km standing runs. And that’s not even all. The truck is said to have set a new speed record at 141.3 in a two-way run over a one-mile course at the Bonneville Salt Flats International Speedway.
It was the first truck with a unibody and removable bed and undeniably stood out in the market. But sadly, all good things must come to a tragic end. The decision to phase out the nameplate was backed up by 2 unavoidable facts: sales were declining (as the Cherokee model was taking off) and Chrysler Corp was trying to begin making the Jeep brand. As you’re likely aware, Dodge was also making trucks, so Chrysler decided to turn Jeep into an SUV-exclusive brand and wouldn’t release another pick-up until 2019.
Jeepster Commando 1966-1973
Originally introduced in 1966 as a clap-back to the International Scout, Toyota Land Cruiser, and Ford Bronco, the Jeep Jeepster Commando was more than a cute name. Again, not the most popular model but still a total classic.
Most of the Commandos were built between 1966-1971 and had 2 engine options. The standard was nicknamed “Hurricane Straight 4” that delivered 75 horsepower and 114-ft of torque. The second engine option was known as the Dauntless V6 and weighed heavy on the preferred side for buyers—producing 160 horsepower and 235lb-ft of torque doubling the output of Hurricane 4.
The name “Jeepster” fell off in 1971 and every following build was simply the Commando. Accompanying the new name was the option of 2 different inline six cylinder engines and also a 303 cubic inch V8 which produce roughly 210 horsepower.
Several redesigns followed until the last Commando rolled off assembly lines in 1973 due to, you guessed it, a decrease in sales.
Jeep Wagoneer 1962-1991
This one is exciting because we have reason to believe that the Jeep is not only bringing back the wagon, but its iconic wood paneling! Don’t act surprised. If leg warmers, scrunchies, and record players can make a comeback, certainly wood paneling on an SUV is entitled to as well. It would seem that when Ford announced that they were bringing back the Bronco to compete with the Wrangler, Jeep responded with “Two can play that game.”
Marketed for 3 decades between the early sixties and early nineties, the iconic Jeep Wagoneer is making its comeback in 2021. The Wagoneer’s pioneered 4×4 luxury design and was one of the first to claim “Sports Utility Vehicle” status when it hit show floors in 1962. The station wagon stayed in production for 29 model-years–making it the third longest-produced single generation car in the U.S. automotive history.
Jeep has a history of keeping it old school. Many of their models, including the Jeep Wagoneer didn’t have significant body structure altercations from their original design. So don’t expect to be disappointed with a complete remodel or “just another crossover,” because Jeep plans to keep its box and bulk with the 2021 Wagoneer.
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