1978 Jeep Wagoneer Custom 4x4: running 360 V8 SJ for under $5,000

Why we picked it

This full-size Jeep has the 360 V8, an automatic and four-wheel drive. The seller says it runs and drives very well, has only a little rust, and comes with a new driver-side quarter panel to fit. The seller also says the interior has been recovered, the floors undercoated and four new Mud Grip tires fitted. The instrument cluster needs work. Classic.com lists it at $4,500, and the seller's own description says $5,000, reduced from $6,000.

Running 1970s Wagoneers have mostly sold for $9,000 to $16,000 this past year. The cheapest comparable sale we found was $4,500. Non-running projects go for under $5,000, so the value here depends on the truck running as well as the seller says. The dealer says it is clearing its lot after selling the property, which may explain the price. Its website is now offline, so call before you travel.

The value check

The seller is asking $4,500. Comparable cars in the same condition have sold for $4,500–$16,000, so the middle of the market is about $10,250. That put this car 56% under.

Recent sales of running, unrestored 1973-79 Wagoneers went for $4,500 to $16,000 (BaT and Hagerty, Dec 2025 to Jul 2026), and most sold between $9,000 and $16,000. Non-running projects sold for $1,100 to $4,800, so this truck's price is fair only if it really does run and drive as described.

Where the numbers come from:

• CLASSIC.COM Jeep Wagoneer SJ (base) sold results
• 1973 Wagoneer sold $11,550 (BaT, Sep 2026)
• 1979 Wagoneer sold $16,000 (BaT, Jul 2026)

What to check

• The dealer's own website is now a parked page. Call Classic Cars of S.C. (864-313-2908 or 864-862-4427) to confirm the truck is still for sale and the price ($4,500 vs $5,000) before sending money
• Title status isn't stated. Ask for a clean SC title in the dealer's name
• SJ rust spots: rear quarters and wheel arches (one quarter already needs replacing), rockers, floor pans, tailgate, the lower windshield frame and the cowl
• The instrument cluster needs work. Also check the Quadra-Trac or transfer case, the front axle U-joints and the 360's timing chain
• The odometer reads 99,999, so true mileage is unknown. Inspect in person, as dealer sales of this kind are usually as-is

Making it drive like new

The SJ is a good base for a mild restomod. Bring the body and frame back to solid metal first. Add an EFI throttle-body kit for the 360, a GM 700R4 or 4L60E overdrive automatic with an adapter for highway gearing, and power front disc brakes with a dual-circuit master cylinder. Then fit modern shocks, a seat-belt upgrade and a Vintage Air system. This keeps the classic look and makes it a usable family 4x4.