With warmer weather fast approaching, delving into the wilds to commune with Mother Nature can be difficult to resist. There are many transport options for intrepid explorers, but this 1975 Jeep CJ-5 could be a hot prospect. Its relatively small dimensions mean it can maneuver into spaces beyond the reach larger off-roaders, while its original V8 offers the power and torque to climb every mountain and ford every stream. It has a few rust issues but nothing that could cause many sleepless nights. The Jeep is listed here on eBay in Rutledge, Tennessee. Bidding has reached $5,400 in a No Reserve auction, and I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder T.J. for spotting this promising classic.
The seller believes that most of the Code 600 Copper paint cloaking this Jeep is original. They acknowledge some touch-ups and patchiness in spots, but it retains a healthy shine. There are minor dings and imperfections, but none require immediate attention. It looks like someone recently restored the wheels because they are in as-new condition. Surface corrosion is visible in various locations, including heavy pitting on the floors. There is also penetrating rust requiring attention, including in the toolbox and at least one body mount. The seller supplies this excellent YouTube video revealing many faults and flaws. One additional item requiring attention is the windshield. Although it isn’t cracked, it is extremely cloudy around the edges. However, I had no trouble locating a replacement windshield and seal for under $200.
The best word to describe the interior of this CJ-5 is “utilitarian.” The seats feature Black vinyl upholstery, but the remaining surfaces wear paint. This interior is unmolested, but the painted surfaces would benefit from a refresh to lift its presentation. The seatcovers aren’t worn, but their slightly odd appearance makes me wonder whether the foam might be on the way out. However, with a pair of covers and foam available as a package for under $500, addressing the shortcoming will not be expensive. Although there isn’t a back seat, the bolt holes are present for those who want extra passengers. I performed a brief online search, locating a new seat for $250. Throw some rubber mats on the floor, and this Jeep’s interior would look pretty nice for under $1,000.
Although buyers could order their 1975 CJ-5 with a choice of two sixes under the hood, the best option was the 304ci V8. It brought a weight penalty to the table, but the combination of increased torque, power, and better weight distribution made the Jeep an accomplished off-roader. The original 304 in this beauty should send 150hp and 245 ft/lbs of torque to the road via a three-speed manual transmission and a dual-range transfer case. With most of the power and torque available at 2,000rpm, this beauty is perfect for crawling over almost any obstacle, but it can still cruise effortlessly at 65mph on the open road. The seller provides this YouTube video of the Jeep running and driving, and its V8 sounds crisp. There are no signs of smoke at idle, but there is some visible on the move. That could warrant further investigation. Otherwise, the seller believes it needs nothing beyond brake work, new tires, and some minor tinkering to be mechanically roadworthy.
Although pristine examples of the 1975 Jeep CJ-5 have experienced slow value growth in the past two years, the buying public’s willingness to embrace project vehicles has seen the values of those examples climb at an impressive rate. This Jeep fits within that category, and I won’t be surprised if the bidding threatens $10,000 before the auction concludes. It could be a bargain worth a close look if it doesn’t reach that figure in the dying moments. If you are considering venturing into the wilderness soon, would this Jeep be your weapon of choice?