1978 Jeep CJ7 Golden Eagle

Description

There's no denying the fun and versatility that a Jeep offers. This 1978 Jeep CJ7 Golden Eagle represents the best of the classic "old school" CJs, and combines the rugged good looks of the traditional off-roader with daily driver friendliness that includes a V8 engine, comfortable seats, and an effective stereo system. We don't see real Golden Eagles too often, especially restored and ready for the road.

You recognize them from a quarter-mile away with their cheerful round headlights and 7-slot grille, a look so iconic the latest Wranglers still wears a version of it. Jeepers wave to each other the way motorcyclists do, and as any of them will tell you, owning a CJ like this is a lifestyle, not mere transportation. Fortunately, this Golden Eagle is a limited edition that stands out with its handsome desert-oriented color scheme. It's also a southern car, so rust is obviously a non-issue, particularly in the critical areas above the rear wheel wells. The repaint is in great condition with a shine that's just right: it looks awesome when you take it to work on sunny days, but on weekends you can still take it out and get it dirty without guilt. The Golden Eagle graphics are surely inspired by the other highly decorated machines of the period but tie into the Jeep's distinctly American heritage; is there any vehicle more patriotic than this? And if you do take it out in the brush, you'll appreciate the burly front bumper with grille guard, tubular step bumpers, and the oversized spare tire mount.

Inside, the Jeep is basic, but that also means that it's virtually indestructible. Have some fun with the top and doors off, then hose it out, that's the name of the game. The tan seat covers are recent, so they fit well and are quite comfortable for a day of play, and the floor has been covered in contrasting brown carpets that look rather handsome and upscale. And underneath the carpet, a color-matched liner has been professionally sprayed throughout the tub, leaving the interior protected for decades to come. The controls will look as familiar to your grandfather who fought in the Korean War as they do to you, with a big steering wheel, T-handle shifter for the 3-speed, and gauges clustered in the center of the dash. There's also a factory tachometer to the right of the correct Golden Eagle steering wheel, a clock to the left (where it's supposed to be) and a pair of auxiliary gauges with a 12-volt power point mounted under the dash. The original radio is gone, replaced by a newer Kenwood AM/FM/CD stereo system, which powers a pair of speakers in their own enclosures in the back seat area. Removable doors and a folding top mean that it seals up tightly enough to be driven regularly, especially with the massive heater that'll keep you warm no matter what.

Power comes from AMC's torquey 304 cubic inch V8, which delivers muscle car punch in the lightweight CJ. This one has been mildly upgraded with an electronic ignition system and an open-element air cleaner, but otherwise it's the same trail-rated machinery that has been doing the job for decades. There's a rebuilt carburetor, fresh engine enamel to make it look good, and a newer radiator up front. In fact, it looks like there are a lot of new components living under the hood and it drives superbly. The suspension is fortified with a slight lift kit and new off-road shocks all around, and a newer side-exit exhaust system gives it just the right grumble and may even free up a few horsepower. And while you're looking around, just note how truly clean this Jeep is underneath. Nice right? Gotta love the warm South! That off-road-ready stance comes from a set of oversized Ridge Runner tires on flashy aluminum wheels.

Tradition is alive and well for Jeep fans, and the CJ7 holds a very special place in the off-roading hall of fame. Golden Eagles don't pop-up often, and they never last, especially when they're in such great shape. Call today!