1985 Jeep CJ7

• An ideal beach truck painted Sunshine Yellow

• End of a lineage that began during World War II

• Last “Civilian Jeep” before the Jeep Wrangler

The Jeep CJ-7 was produced from 1976-1986, towards the end of the CJ line that started with the original CJ-1 - or “Civilian Jeep” – tracing back to the end of World War II. The Civilian Jeep has been called America’s Workhorse, stemming from the light utility vehicles utilized by the U.S. Army during WWII, and although this example on display doesn’t blend in as much as the military vehicles from the past, it is just as capable when the road turns to dirt.

This CJ-7 in Sunshine Yellow represents an ideal Newport summer vehicle. Light trucks like Jeeps, Defenders and Broncos are the most fun in environments like Newport because of how fun the experience is. Bouncing around in a bright truck like this at 25-40 MPH is a thrill you can’t explain. You simply feel like you are moving much faster than you are – especially with the doors and top removed!

In this period, the Jeep was a raw and unforgiving vehicle. Comfort was not a consideration when these were engineered, they were purpose-built utilitarian tools. The CJ-7 was a step in the right direction in terms of road manners. The CJ-7 was 10 inches longer than the outgoing CJ-5, a substantial handling improvement which gave the truck more balance and stability at speed. There were more than 10 different trim packages offered on the CJ-7, with four-, six- and eight-cylinder engine options. The CJ-7 was a major step from the utilitarian vehicle of the past. About 380,000 examples of the CJ-7 were produced, leading to the first Jeep Wrangler in 1987. Still one of the best beach cruisers, we think it looks just as good in Sunshine Yellow or Military Green!

Specifications

Engine: 4.2 liter inline-6

Horsepower: 112

Torque: 210 ft-lbs

Transmission: 5-speed manual

Weight: 2900 lbs