From Battlefield Legends to Collector’s Dreams: A Look at the Most Iconic and Valuable Vintage Jeeps
By Brett T. Evans | MotorTrend | Photography by MotorTrend Archive, Mecum Auctions | Illustration by Alan Muir | December 31, 2024
From the war-torn roads of Europe to the scenic byways of the American countryside, Jeep has built a legacy like no other. What began as a military necessity has evolved into one of the most recognizable and beloved automotive brands in the world. With over eight decades of history and innovation behind it, Jeep offers an exciting and diverse portfolio of collectible vehicles that continue to capture the hearts of off-road enthusiasts and vintage car collectors alike.
Whether it’s the battle-proven Willys MB or the wood-paneled luxury of the Grand Wagoneer, these Jeeps are more than just vehicles—they’re cultural touchstones, mechanical time capsules, and, in many cases, smart investments. Based on recent sales data from Mecum Auctions, here are some of the most collectible Jeeps in history—each with its own unique story and legacy.
1941–1945 Willys MB / Ford GPW
The original Jeep, born from a U.S. military contract before America even entered World War II, combined Willys’ powerful “Go Devil” engine, Bantam’s nimble suspension, and Ford’s efficient body design. The MB and GPW models became indispensable tools for Allied soldiers and later inspired the civilian CJ series.
Current Value: $20,000–$30,000
Horsepower: 60 HP
Claim to Fame: The Jeep that started it all
1947–1965 Willys Jeep Truck
Expanding beyond the battlefield, Willys introduced the Jeep Truck with robust four-wheel drive and work-ready features. Ideal for forestry and municipal work, it helped establish Jeep’s reputation for versatility.
Current Value: $10,000–$30,000
Horsepower: 63–140 HP
Claim to Fame: Jeep’s first pickup truck
1948–1951 Willys-Overland Jeepster
A stylish attempt to bridge utilitarian Jeeps and traditional cars, the rear-wheel-drive Jeepster offered sleek design and convertible fun. Though not a sales hit, it’s now cherished for its uniqueness.
Current Value: $15,000–$30,000
Horsepower: 63–85 HP
Claim to Fame: Possibly Jeep’s first “crossover”
1956–1965 Jeep Forward Control (FC)
This cab-over-engine design squeezed maximum cargo capacity into a compact footprint. Popular with municipalities, the FC’s quirky looks and short length now make it a favorite among rock-crawling enthusiasts.
Current Value: $15,000–$40,000
Horsepower: 75–115 HP
Claim to Fame: Jeep’s unconventional, ultra-compact workhorse
1963–1988 Jeep Gladiator / J-Truck
Jeep’s full-size answer to mainstream pickups, the Gladiator (later renamed J-Truck) offered power, capability, and longevity. Built on the same platform as the Wagoneer, it evolved through AMC’s ownership and remained in production until Chrysler took the reins.
Current Value: $10,000–$40,000
Horsepower: 140–210 HP
Claim to Fame: Jeep’s answer to the full-size truck boom
1963–1991 Jeep Wagoneer / Grand Wagoneer
A trailblazer in the SUV segment, the Wagoneer combined rugged four-wheel drive with comfort and luxury. The Grand Wagoneer, in particular, became a status symbol with upscale touches and timeless wood paneling.
Current Value: $15,000–$50,000
Horsepower: 140–210 HP
Claim to Fame: The original luxury SUV
1976–1986 Jeep CJ-7
With a longer wheelbase and more creature comforts than its predecessors, the CJ-7 marked a turning point in Jeep’s off-road evolution. Popular trims like the Golden Eagle and Laredo made it as much a lifestyle vehicle as an off-roader.
Current Value: $10,000–$40,000
Horsepower: 98–126 HP
Claim to Fame: Jeep for everyday adventurers
1981–1986 Jeep CJ-8 Scrambler
Essentially a CJ-7 turned into a compact pickup, the Scrambler featured a longer wheelbase and tiny bed. Its rarity—and endorsement from none other than Ronald Reagan—makes it highly collectible today.
Current Value: $20,000–$40,000
Horsepower: 98–126 HP
Claim to Fame: A presidential favorite and compact pickup hybrid
1985–1992 Jeep Comanche (MJ)
A blend of unibody and body-on-frame construction made the Comanche both unique and capable. Sharing much with the Cherokee, it offered strong off-road chops in a small truck package.
Current Value: $10,000–$25,000
Horsepower: 85–190 HP
Claim to Fame: Jeep’s quirky, durable compact truck
1988–1995 Jeep Wrangler Sahara (YJ)
Made famous by its role in Jurassic Park, the Sahara trim added upscale interior finishes and rugged charm. Though the square headlights of the YJ remain polarizing, the Sahara is a nostalgic favorite.
Current Value: $10,000–$15,000
Horsepower: 190 HP
Claim to Fame: Hollywood’s dinosaur-hunting 4×4
1991–1994 Jeep Wrangler Renegade
An eccentric design from the early ’90s, the Renegade stood out with flared body cladding and funky styling. It’s an acquired taste—but one that’s gaining value thanks to its rarity and retro charm.
Current Value: $15,000–$30,000
Horsepower: 190 HP
Claim to Fame: Bold ’90s style meets off-road utility
1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee 5.9 Limited
In its final year before a generational update, the ZJ Grand Cherokee received a potent 5.9-liter V-8, transforming it into one of the earliest performance SUVs. It was quick, luxurious, and ahead of its time.
Current Value: $8,000–$15,000
Horsepower: 245 HP
Claim to Fame: Jeep’s first high-performance SUV
2004–2006 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited (LJ)
Jeep stretched the short-wheelbase TJ into a more practical format with the LJ. Known for its added cargo room and improved ride, the LJ has become a highly sought-after version of the Wrangler family.
Value Today: Prices vary depending on trim and condition
Horsepower: Similar to standard TJ Wranglers
Claim to Fame: A fan-favorite blend of utility and off-road prowess
Jeep’s storied past is filled with rugged charm, bold innovation, and a relentless commitment to go-anywhere capability. Whether you’re into military history, off-road adventures, or automotive nostalgia, there’s a collectible Jeep with your name on it. And the best part? Many of them remain surprisingly affordable—at least for now.
