Cult Classic: 1982 Jeep CJ8 Scrambler – Sold?

April 5, 2021 Update – We just confirmed the listing for this “Classifind” expired, so with no replacement found we’re assuming this ride “Sold?” While this one got away, please reach out either by email or call Rudy directly if you’d like to be informed when we come across something similar.

One of the few CJ-Series Jeeps that we will often put to the top of our feature list is actually the spiritual predecessor of the modern Wrangler Gladiator:  the CJ-8 Scrambler pickup.  We came across what appears to be either a survivor-quality or older restored 1982 Scrambler originally listed in March 2021 on Craigslist near Raleigh, North Carolina with an asking price of $25,000.   Comparing this price against the Hagerty Insurance Online Valuation Tool confirms this private seller has the Scrambler priced between the #2 “Excellent” appraisal of $32,100 and the #3 “Good” estimate of $21,100. As a second data point, the Collector Car Market Review reveals the seller’s ask falls between this guide’s #2 “Very Good” estimate of $22,000 and its #1 “Excellent” appraisal of $33,000.

Jeep launched the hard cab pickup CJ-8 Scrambler in 1981.  To develop the pickup box, Jeep gave the CJ-8 a ten-inch longer wheelbase and then extended the rear overhang versus the CJ-7.  Buyers could choose either a hard fiberglass pickup cab with steel doors like the example featured here or a folding vinyl pickup top with vinyl doors.  Powertrain options were the same as the CJ-7.

This vintage Jeep 30-second TV spot asks consumers “Why drive a car when you can drive a Jeep?” Well, for starters $6,765 didn’t buy you a top but we digress…

We love the period-correct color scheme of this rare Scrambler.  Unfortunately, the seller’s brief description has us wondering whether their CJ8 is a nicely preserved survivor or a restored piece.  Either way, you’ll definitely get the approving Jeep wave everywhere you drive this Scrambler. Good luck with the purchase!

Here’s the seller’s brief description:

“1982 Jeep Cj8 Scrambler
6 cylinder engine, 4 speed transmission
New tires, as well many new parts, brake calipers and pads , new gas tank and fuel lines . call or text , I don’t need any help selling it
Title in hand“

Do you have a CJ-8 Scrambler story you’d like to share?  Comment below and let us know!