If you love the ‘77 Trans Am in Smokey and the Bandit like we do, but need a little more cargo space, we’ve got the truck for you. For sale out of Jim Babish Auto in Johnstown, PA is this ultra rare 1979 Jeep Cherokee (SJ) Golden Eagle edition with 79,488 miles.
Famous for its paint and graphics package featuring a striking golden eagle on the hood, this is a highly original example that has been very well-preserved throughout its life and includes a full accounting of all of its maintenance throughout its life.
If you’re a collector, you’re going to want to add this one to the stable.
The Jeep Cherokee SJ Golden Eagle Edition.
The Jeep Cherokee (SJ) was first introduced in 1974 and was based on the popular Jeep Wagoneer platform. It was targeted at younger 4×4 enthusiasts who had outgrown the smaller CJ-series Jeeps. The executives at Jeep believed they needed something between the Wagoneer at the top of the line and the much smaller CJ, so they created the SJ to slot in between them.
It offered more space and practicality than the CJ line, but was cheaper and sportier than the Wagoneer. The Cherokee nameplate has been in production non-stop since 1974 over five generations, with millions and millions sold and no sign that won’t continue.
The Cherokee SJ was offered with a number of different trim levels, including the S (Sport), Chief, Golden Eagle, Golden Hawk, and Laredo. Some, like the Golden Eagle and Golden Hawk were graphics packages, and others like the Laredo were interior trim packages. The Golden Eagle edition, like this example, was produced only in 1978 and 1979 model years increasing its rarity and collectibility.
In addition to its unique paint and graphics cues, this rig also includes the “Levis Edition” package, which has an interior upholstered in a Levis-style pattern with authentic brass Levis buttons. Super cool.
The Condition & Specs.
This SJ was originally purchased in Nebraska but lived most of its life as a summer cruiser for an attorney at his summer lake house. It was well cared for, and stored and stabled every winter, which is part of the reason why this SUV is completely rust free. The seller provided pictures, including underbody shots, definitely support this claim.
The sale includes a memo pad detailing all maintenance throughout its life along with original bill of sale and brochures and original owners manuals.
Here’s more of what you’ll get with this beautiful Golden Eagle:
THE HIGHLIGHTS:
- 5.9L 360CI V8
- 3-speed automatic transmission
- QuadraTrac 4-wheel drive
- Gold and brown Golden Eagle graphics package
- 31/10.5/R15 BFGoodrich tires (95% tread remaining)
- 15" steel wheels
- Luggage rack
- Reagan Bush ‘84 bumper sticker
- Bordeaux Metallic paint
- Tan Levi cloth interior
