Classic sports utility vehicles (SUVs) are becoming increasingly popular because of their utility and style. Although SUVs are now a common sight on public roads, these vehicles were once far rarer and were designed for off-road driving. Here at Classic Auto, we appreciate the beauty and power of classic and antique SUVs. If you’re thinking of investing in one of these breathtaking collectible SUVs, consider one of these eight stunning classics.
Ford Bronco
Ford manufactured its original Bronco from 1966 to 1977, and the vehicle was Ford’s first-ever compact SUV. The Bronco offered drivers top-notch off-road capabilities while also supplying an incredibly comfortable ride. Another element that makes the original Bronco special is the fact that Ford created a completely new chassis for the vehicle that wasn’t based on any previous Ford iterations. The SUV utilized a box-section body-on-frame construction.
The first-generation Ford Bronco came with different powertrain options. Its engine options were a 170 cu in Straight-6, a 200 cu in Straight-6, a 289 cu in small-block V8, and a 302 cu in small-block V8.
Today, Broncos that are in decent shape and feature their original straight-6 or V8 engines are incredibly valuable.
Chevrolet K5 Blazer
Chevrolet manufactured the K5 Blazer in order to compete with the Ford Bronco. Chevrolet focused on delivering the same impressive off-road capabilities of the Bronco while also providing an even more comfortable interior as well as air-conditioning. The company was ultimately successful as it surpassed the sales of the Ford Bronco.
The first generation of the Blazer was also known as the GMC Jimmy. It came with four different engine options and three different transmissions. Drivers could cruise with a 250 cu in I6, a 292 cu in I6, a 307 cu in V8, or a 350 cu in V8. The transmission options were the 3-speed TH-350 automatic, 3-speed manual, and 4-speed manual.
Mitsubishi Montero Sport
The Mitsubishi Montero Sport is based on the Mitsubishi Triton pickup truck. The SUV features many names, including the Mitsubishi Challenger and the Mitsubishi Pajero Sport. The Japanese motor company began manufacturing the Montero Sport in 1996, and they still produce the vehicle today. Even modern iterations of the vehicle still have that classic SUV look.
The first generation Mitsubishi Montero Sport featured many different engine options, but its most common engine was the 3-liter V6 engine that produced 175 horsepower at 5,000 rpm.
Land Rover Discovery
Land Rover Ltd. originally manufactured this SUV also known as the “Disco.” Today, Jaguar Land Rover continues producing these luxurious and powerful SUVs.
Land Rover produced the Discovery Series I from 1989 to 1998. Although the vehicle’s design was heavily based on expensive Range Rovers, the SUV utilized smaller engines, making them far more affordable. The Series I could come with many different engine types, including the 2.0 L T-Series I4, 3.5 L Rover V8, 3.9 L Rover V8, and the 4.0 L Rover V8. The stunning SUV also came with either a 4-speed ZF 4HP22 automatic transmission or a 5-speed manual.
International Harvester Scout
The International Harvester Scout serves as an enviable model for off-road vehicles. Its simplicity and elegance make it a highly sought-after SUV. International Harvester produced the SUV from 1961 to 1980, and the manufacturer produced seven iterations of the vehicle as well as several special editions.
The original International Harvester Scout, the Scout 80, came equipped with a 152 four-cylinder engine, and it was gasoline-powered. Although the vehicle was originally produced to compete with Jeeps, the design laid the foundation for future SUVs.
Jeep CJ
The Jeep CJ is an incredibly iconic and high-selling vehicle that came with different body styles. The vehicle is based on the classic World War II jeep produced by Willys-Overland in the 1940s. CJ stands for “civilian jeep,” and its 2-door SUV body style offered drivers both power and stunning off-road capabilities.
The Jeep CJ SUV didn’t experience much popularity from its early days in the mid-1950s because it was smaller than the average SUV. In response, Jeep produced the CJ-7, which was longer and more stable than previous SUV iterations. The CJ-7 also laid the foundation for the highly popular and similar-looking Jeep Wrangler.
Jeep Grand Cherokee ZJ
The Jeep Grand Cherokee ZJ was the first iteration of the Jeep Grand Cherokee SUV. The American Motors Corporation initially began designing this powerhouse vehicle in the 1980s, but Chrysler took over production after acquiring the American Motors Corporation in 1987.
The SUV sported a wheelbase of 105.9 in. The 1993-1995 iterations of the Cherokee sported a length of 178.7 in and a width of 69.2 in. From 1996 to 1998, Chrysler distributed Cherokees with a length of 181.2 in, and this significant size made the vehicle more suitable for families.
The Grand Cherokee ZJ’s engine options were the 2.5 L VM Motori 425 OHV I4, 4.0 L AMC 242 I6, 5.2 L Magnum V8, and the 5.9 L Magnum V8.
Isuzu VehiCROSS
The Isuzu VehiCROSS is the rarest SUV featured on our list. The Japanese company Isuzu only produced 4,000 of these stunning 3-door mini SUVs. It came with either a 3.2 L 6VD1 V6 or a 3.5 L 6VE1 V6 engine and a 4-speed automatic transmission. In addition to its notable engine, the VehiCROSS also featured a firm suspension, making for a highly enjoyable ride.
Protect Your Stunning SUV
The most critical thing you need to do to keep your classic SUV on the road for years to come is obtain premium classic car insurance. Here at Classic Auto, we offer robust and customizable protection plans on classic, luxury, and antique vehicles. To learn more, call us today at 888-901-1338, or click here for an instant quote.
