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Dealer Selling 1983 Jeep CJ-8 Scrambler for New Wrangler Money

1983 Jeep Scrambler 16 photos
Photo: Garage Kept Motors
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Care for an old and rather rare Jeep? How about a CJ-8 Scrambler born over four decades ago, which still looks like it is ready for a great adventure off the beaten path?
But what exactly is a Jeep CJ-8 Scrambler, you ask? Well, the images speak for themselves, as it is basically a pickup variant of the Wrangler’s predecessor. This model is a great conversation starter, as most car enthusiasts will likely ask you a few questions about it, whether they are Jeep fans or not. Mind you, you'd have to buy this vehicle for that, so let's talk about some of its features.

As specified above, you are looking at a 1983 Jeep Scrambler with almost 86,000 miles (~138,400 km) on the clock, which means it has covered a little over 2,000 miles (3,200+ km) annually since it left the dealer lot. Power is supplied by a 258 ci inline-six engine paired with a five-speed manual transmission. The vendor also mentions the dual-range transfer case, front disc brakes, Rancho shocks, 15-inch steel wheels finished in white and wrapped in chunky tires, and roll bar.

1983 Jeep Scrambler
Photo: Garage Kept Motors
This old-timer has a Mist Silver Metallic paint finish, Scrambler decals on the fenders, a full-size spare wheel attached to the tailgate, and a very basic interior with black seats, analog gauges, a simple steering wheel, and not much else. It is clear that whoever buys it won’t turn it into a daily, as it's more suitable for the occasional drive off the lit path. Its next owner will also get the manual, window sticker, and service records to brag about to their Jeep enthusiast friends.

The seller describes this Jeep Scrambler as "a rare find" due to its "blend of vintage appeal, capable drivetrain, and well-maintained condition." And while it may be rare indeed and ready to hit the road again, this classic truck is quite pricey. At the time of writing, it was advertised for $39,900, which is the same as that 1995 Jeep Wrangler boasting LS firepower and a few other bits and bobs that we wrote about earlier this week.

For what it's worth, this Jeep CJ-8 Scrambler costs brand-new Wrangler money, with the base 2025 Wrangler beginning at $32,690 with two doors and $37,290 with four doors. The entry-level Sport is followed by the Sport_S, which starts at $35,695 and $40,295 with two and four doors, respectively. A new Wrangler Willys will set you back north of $40,000.

Nevertheless, if this old-timer sounds more appealing than a new Wrangler, then you can access the online listing on Garage Kept Motors here. But are you really prepared to fork out $40k for an old Jeep CJ that hasn't even been fully restored?
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About the author: Cristian Gnaticov
Cristian Gnaticov profile photo

After a series of unfortunate events put an end to Cristian's dream of entering a custom built & tuned old-school Dacia into a rally competition, he moved on to drive press cars and write for a living. He's worked for several automotive online journals and now he's back at autoevolution after his first tour in the mid-2000s.
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