Grand Wagoneer Alternative: 1987 AMC Eagle – SOLD!

January 7^th, 2021 Update: We just confirmed the private seller of this ride deleted their Craigslist ad, so we’re now able to call this one “Sold!”  While this one got away, if you have your heart set on something similar, email us the details of what you’re looking for or call Rudy directly at (908)295-7330.

One of the foremost vintage SUVs of the 1980s is the Jeep Grand Wagoneer, long the choice of family-oriented executives and vineyard barons alike. The wood paneling, leather seats – it’s a sumptuous experience. But if you care less about appearances but still place a high value on utility, the AMC Eagle – like this 1987 model originally featured in October 2020 on Craigslist – should be on your shortlist. Located in Leeds, Massachusetts, the Eagle is said to be a fine driver with some minor cosmetic and mechanical faults, listed for $3,000. Comparing this price against the American Collectors Insurance Guide confirms this private seller has priced his Eagle well below the “Low” retail price of $6,925. 

AMC’s vision for what customers would eventually want was practically prophetic – high-riding, four-wheel-drive wagons with dead-nuts reliable drivetrains they didn’t have to think too hard about. While the Subaru Outback undoubtedly had the timing better for bringing such a concept to the masses, AMC’s engineers and designers deserve a ton of credit for building what now can be considered an incredibly advanced vehicle for the time. Throw in the company’s dalliances with rallying all the way to the 24 Hours of Nürburgring and it’s immediately clear that ingenuity knew no bounds; it’s a shame the company doesn’t exist in that same form today.

The YouTube Channel AutoMoments published this modern review of a similar ’86 AMC Eagle Wagon:

Buying an Eagle wagon isn’t exactly a risky decision, as the robust drivetrains stand a better chance of surviving than the bodies do, which were often used in snowy climates without much thought to long-term preservation. The example shown here runs and drives and oddly comes with a brand new paint job, according to the seller, but will still need a new exhaust and an axle. The problems can’t be too severe, as the seller contends you can still drive it home. The seats are slightly tattered and the wheels could use a coat of paint, but otherwise, the Eagle looks incredibly solid – and tough, with that lifted suspension. As a final year model, this seems like an example worthy of buttoning up the loose ends and using as a Radwood-approved ride to Okemo. Good luck with the purchase if you check this AMC Eagle out, located in the shadow of Northampton, Mass.

Here’s the seller’s description:

“1987 Eagle, 4Wd, auto 4.2L 6cyl. Brand new Deep Garnet Metallic paint, runs and drives. Its a driver and will need some attention like the interior (seat ripped and springs worn), exhaust, and an axle, etc. Fun collector that’s all there. Drive it home.“

Do you have an AMC Eagle story you’d like to share?  Comment below and let us know!