With prices of classic 4x4s on the rise, grab one of these gems quickly.
The best affordable classic 4x4s worth buying today is a wide-open topic that can lead to lengthy and sometimes impassioned discussions.
For instance, what does the best affordable classic 4×4 mean? If you’re flush with cash, finding a reasonably priced classic 4×4 could mean spending much more than the average classic 4×4 enthusiast may define as affordable. Let’s set some boundaries before we get deep into this conversation.
Keep in mind that most classic 4×4 fans are likely to be pretty handy with a wrench and a welder. They will need to be. Most classic 4x4s are not in showroom condition. The truth is that for a classic 4×4 to be truly affordable to most buyers, it will have some issues.
It’s probably going to have an imperfect body, faded or peeling paint, a patina of rust here and there, some missing parts, and mechanicals that will need to be repaired, replaced, or otherwise tended to.
Also, in recent years, prices for classic 4x4s have started soaring to stratospheric heights. We’ve seen this through live auctions like Barrett-Jackson and online auctions like Bring-a-Trailer.
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The Top 5 Best Affordable Classic 4x4s
Let’s look at our top five picks for the best affordable classic 4x4s, how they were equipped, and things to watch for.
Naturally, prices vary depending on the vehicle’s mechanical condition, along with its level of upgrades and modifications. Mileage of 100,000 miles or greater is common among older vehicles. Under these circumstances, the state of its body and undercarriage can widely differ, depending upon which region of the country it spent most of its life — the Rust Belt versus the Southwest.
Ford Bronco (1978-1979)
As if running examples of the first-generation Ford Bronco weren’t expensive enough, the news and launch of Ford’s modern retro SUV have sent asking prices for 1966-1977 Broncos into an upward trajectory that makes them nearly unobtainable to the average classic 4×4 enthusiast. We have good news, though.
One of the best affordable classic 4x4s is the second generation of the Ford Bronco. It’s more powerful, larger, and comes with more features than the prior generation. Running examples of it are much more affordable today than first-generation Broncos.
These factors together make the second-generation Ford Bronco one of our top affordable classic 4x4s worth buying today.
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Boxy Is Cool
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Popular Then & Now
Toyota 4Runner (1996-2002)
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4Runner Drivetrain
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Great Aftermarket Support
Datsun/Nissan 720 Pickup (1980-1986)
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US Debut
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720 Survivors
Jeep Wrangler TJ (1997-2006)
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Wrangler Rubicon
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Chevrolet Blazer (1973-1991)
Powertrain and Drivetrain Options
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K5 Blazer Mid-Cycle Updates
- 30-spline axle shafts for the Corporate 10-bolt axles
- A single serpentine accessory drive belt on the standard 5.7L V8
- A switch to the New Process 241 transfer case with an improved oiling system, upgraded planetary gear, and a higher GVWR rating