Image of 1987 Jeep Grand Wagoneer, sourced from www.insidehook.com , Image Link.

Unveiling the Quintessential American Luxury 4x4: The 1987 Jeep Grand Wagoneer

The 1987 Jeep Grand Wagoneer is a rolling testament to a bygone era of automotive luxury and ruggedness. Born from the Willys-Overland company, which later became part of American Motors Corporation (AMC), and eventually finding its place under the Chrysler umbrella, this vehicle has traversed a fascinating journey. Its roots can be traced back to the early post-war years, but it was in the mid-80s that the Grand Wagoneer hit its stride as a symbol of premium off-road capability. A unique fact that sets this vehicle apart is its distinction as one of the first luxury SUVs, paving the way for a genre that would explode in popularity decades later.

Design and Innovation

The exterior of the 1987 Grand Wagoneer exudes a classic charm with its boxy silhouette, hallmark woodgrain side panels, and a bold, chrome-laden front grille. The interior is a sanctuary of comfort, featuring plush leather seats and a generous use of wood trim that provided an upscale ambiance. For its time, the Grand Wagoneer was quite advanced, boasting power windows, power door locks, and even an optional sunroof, features that were far from standard in the 80s. Color options ranged from deep blues to rich burgundies, with the most iconic being the classic white paired with the woodgrain siding. While only available in one body style, the four-door station wagon, buyers could opt for various packages that included towing capabilities and off-road enhancements.

Historical Significance

The 1987 Jeep Grand Wagoneer's historical significance lies in its pioneering role as a luxury SUV. It set itself apart from contemporaries with its blend of opulence and utility – a concept that would inspire future generations of SUVs. Its lasting influence is evident in today's luxury vehicle market, where comfort no longer sacrifices capability.

Performance and Handling

Under the hood, the Grand Wagoneer was powered by a 5.9-liter V8 engine, delivering a robust driving experience with a top speed that could reach up to 100 mph – impressive for a vehicle of its stature. The acceleration from 0-60 mph was modest by today's standards but was sufficient for the era's expectations. Handling was surprisingly smooth for such a large vehicle, absorbing bumps with ease and maintaining composure on windy roads. The throaty rumble of the V8 engine provided an auditory backdrop to the tactile sensation of commanding such a substantial machine.

Ownership Experience

The Grand Wagoneer was versatile enough to serve as a daily driver, a status symbol at car shows, or even as a tow vehicle for weekend getaways. Maintenance and reliability were in line with vehicles of the time; straightforward mechanicals meant repairs could often be handled by owners with some mechanical know-how. However, fuel economy was not its strong suit, reflecting the less environmentally conscious era it was produced in.

Fun Facts

A fun fact about the Grand Wagoneer is that it has been owned by various celebrities over the years, adding to its allure. While it didn't break speed records, it certainly set sales records for its class during its production years. It also appeared in numerous films and TV shows, cementing its place in popular culture. Common criticisms included its thirst for fuel and somewhat dated technology towards the end of its production run.

Collector's Information

Today, the 1987 Jeep Grand Wagoneer has found new life as a collector's item. With an estimated production number in the tens of thousands for that year, it's relatively rare but still accessible to enthusiasts. Values have been appreciating steadily as nostalgia and the desire for vintage SUVs grow; well-maintained examples can fetch anywhere from $15,000 to over $30,000 depending on condition and originality.

Conclusion

The 1987 Jeep Grand Wagoneer stands as an icon of American automotive history – a luxurious yet rugged vehicle that offered a glimpse into the future of SUVs. Its legacy is one of innovation and prestige, making it a cherished classic for collectors and enthusiasts alike. As we look back on this remarkable machine, we're reminded that true style and capability are timeless.

1987 Jeep Grand Wagoneer Cowl Seal. Replaces OEM part # J5459613. Each-CS 91Cowl Seal. Replaces OEM part # J5459613. Each

1987 Jeep Grand Wagoneer Molded Door Seal. Fits front or rear, either side. Each-LM 97Molded Door Seal. Fits front or rear, either side. Each

1987 Jeep Grand Wagoneer Door Lock Gasket. Each-MP 1600Door Lock Gasket. Each

1987 Jeep Grand Wagoneer Tailgate lock base gasket. Replaces OEM# J5465676. Each.-MP 1604Tailgate lock base gasket. Replaces OEM# J5465676. Each.

1987 Jeep Grand Wagoneer Door handle mounting pads. 4-piece set. R&L.-MP 1700Door handle mounting pads. 4-piece set. R&L.

1987 Jeep Grand Wagoneer Lower Tailgate Seal. Replaces OEM #J5451573. Each-TG 91Lower Tailgate Seal. Replaces OEM #J5451573. Each