Jeep CJ5 Renegade 1983

The Jeep CJ models are a series and a range of small, open-bodied off-road vehicles and compact pickup trucks, built and sold by several successive incarnations of the Jeep automobile marque from 1945 through 1986. The 1945 Willys "Universal Jeep" was the world's first mass-produced civilian four-wheel drive car.

In 1944, Willys-Overland, the primary manufacturer of the World War II military Jeep, built the first prototypes for a commercial version – the CJ, short for "civilian Jeep".The design was a direct evolution from the war jeep, but the most obvious change was adding a tailgate, and relocating the spare wheel to the side. Also, besides adding basic civilian amenities and options and legally-compliant lighting, the CJ required a sturdier drivetrain than the war jeep, because the targeted rural buyers would work the vehicles hard and expect years of durability, instead of mere weeks as during WWII.

From then on, all CJ Jeeps consistently had a separate body and frame, rigid live axles with leaf springs both front and rear, a tapering nose design with flared fenders, and a fold-flat windshield, and could be driven without doors. Also, with few exceptions, they had part-time four-wheel drive systems, with the choice of high and low gearing, and open bodies with removable hard or soft tops. A few stand-out changes during 42 model years were the introductions of round-fendered vs. flat-fendered bodies (1955 CJ-5), straight-6 and V8-engines, automatic gearboxes, and different 4-wheel drive systems. The 1976 CJ-7 stretched the wheelbase by 10 inches (25 cm), and made doors and a removable hardtop common items.

After remaining in production through a range of model numbers, and several corporate parents, the Jeep CJ line was officially ended after 1986. More than 1.5 million CJ Jeeps were built, having continued the same basic body style for 45 years since the Jeep first appeared. Widely regarded as "America's workhorse", the CJs have been described as "probably the most successful utility vehicle ever made.American Motors VP Joseph E. Cappy said the end of "CJ production will signal an end of a very important era in Jeep history."In 1987, the Jeep CJ-7 was replaced by the first-generation Jeep Wrangler. Looking very similar and riding on the same wheelbase as the CJ-7, it carried over some important components, including its use of leaf springs.

The similar model the DJ "Dispatcher" was introduced in 1956 as a two-wheel drive version with open, fabric, or a closed steel body in both left- and right-hand drives for hotel, resort, police, and later United States Postal Service markets.

The Willys CJ-5 (after 1964 Jeep CJ-5) was influenced by new corporate owner, Kaiser, and the Korean War M38A1 Jeep. It was intended to replace the CJ-3B, but that model continued in production. The CJ-5 repeated this pattern, continuing in production for three decades while three newer models appeared. "The CJ-5 has the distinct honor of being a vehicle that was hard to kill off... equaling the longest production run of note.

Jeep, originally a utility vehicle that played a pivotal role in the Allied victory, emerged as a symbol of resilience and limitless potential. The roots of the 1983 Jeep CJ-5 Std trace back to the aftermath of World War II. Inspired by the rugged conditions of war-torn landscapes, the M38A1's lineage directly influenced the creation of the CJ-5. With its distinct lack of doors and roof, the CJ-5 encapsulates the concept of open-bodied freedom. Under the guidance of Kaiser, the new corporate owner, CJ-5, underwent meticulous refinements. This stunning example of the 1983 Jeep CJ-5 we have here is an interesting case as the current owner believes its motor to be swapped.

Our subject 1983 Jeep CJ-5, commands attention with its red exterior while signifying a classic aesthetic. The vehicle is adorned with tasteful classic steel wheels, evoking a timeless charm. New Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac tires, complete with a spare tire, have been installed recently, further boosting the vehicle's capabilities. The included bikini top complements its design while providing an option for protective covering. It also features a shackle reversal modification paired with a recent replacement of shocks that enhances its off-road capabilities. With the back seat removed, as per the current owner's report, the interior of this 1983 Jeep CJ-5 offers a versatile space. The iconic Jeep logo prominently displayed on the dashboard pays homage, while the central focal point features a large gauge flanked by two smaller ones. Metal storage compartments enhance practicality, and the inclusion of the Lecarra 3-spoke steering wheel adds a touch of classic refinement.

Powering the 1983 Jeep CJ-5 is a rebuilt 4.2L 6-cylinder engine that isn't its original motor as per the current owner. This powerplant is paired with a 4-speed manual transmission sending power to the wheels. The integration of Mopar electronic fuel injection (EFI) elevates fuel efficiency and throttle response as a Borla header contributes to exhaust efficiency and overall engine performance. Notably, the clutch was replaced by the previous owner, confirming the careful upkeep of this vehicle.