Jeep CJ-7 Laredo
The Jeep CJ-7, produced from 1976 to 1986, was a significant evolution of the CJ formula that had been largely unchanged since the military Willys MB of World War II. With a ten-inch-longer wheelbase than the CJ-5 and a wider track, the CJ-7 offered improved stability, better ride quality, and the ability to accommodate an optional automatic transmission and molded hardtop that the shorter CJ-5 could not easily accept.
The Laredo package represented the most civilized expression of the CJ concept. Introduced in 1980, the Laredo transformed the utilitarian Jeep into something approaching a comfortable daily driver, at least by the standards of the era. The package included chrome exterior trim, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, higher-quality seat trim with more padding, carpeting, a center console, and a tachometer, amenities that were unprecedented on a CJ.
The standard engine for the Laredo was AMC's 258-cubic-inch inline-six, producing 110 horsepower and 205 lb-ft of torque. While not powerful by any measure, the torquey straight-six was well-suited to the CJ-7's intended use. The broad, flat torque curve provided consistent pulling power at low RPM, essential for off-road crawling, and the engine's iron construction ensured durability in harsh conditions. A five-speed manual transmission was standard, providing better highway fuel economy than the earlier four-speed units.
The CJ-7's longer wheelbase addressed many of the CJ-5's shortcomings. The additional ten inches between the axles provided a more planted feel on highways, reduced the tendency toward pitching over bumps, and improved approach-to-obstacle angles. The wider track also enhanced lateral stability, partially addressing the rollover concerns that had dogged the CJ-5. The CJ-7 was the first CJ to offer an optional automatic transmission, the Chrysler TorqueFlite three-speed, which made the vehicle significantly more accessible to buyers who preferred not to wrestle with a manual gearbox.
Off-road capability remained the CJ-7's core competency. The Dana 300 transfer case, introduced in 1980, was a heavy-duty unit with a 2.62:1 low range that provided excellent crawling ability. The live axle suspension front and rear, with its generous wheel travel and inherent durability, allowed the CJ-7 to tackle obstacles that would damage more sophisticated suspension designs. The optional Trac-Lok limited-slip rear differential improved traction on loose surfaces.
The Laredo's chrome accents and comfortable interior made it popular with buyers who wanted a Jeep for weekend recreation but needed a vehicle that was tolerable during the weekday commute. This was a prescient positioning that foreshadowed the SUV boom of the 1990s, when millions of Americans would discover that they wanted vehicles that could theoretically go anywhere, even if they rarely ventured beyond the shopping mall parking lot.
The CJ-7 was the last of the true CJ Jeeps, replaced in 1987 by the Wrangler YJ, which adopted a wider body, revised suspension, and rectangular headlamps that horrified Jeep purists but attracted a broader customer base. The CJ-7 remains one of the most popular models in Jeep's history, and well-preserved Laredo examples are particularly sought by collectors who appreciate the combination of CJ ruggedness and relative comfort.
Frame rust is the most critical inspection point; thoroughly check frame rails, crossmembers, and body mounts. The AMC 258 I6 is extremely durable but check for cracked exhaust manifold and head gasket seepage. Leaf springs sag over time. The Dana 300 transfer case is robust but check for worn bearings. CJ-7s with factory hardtops are more valuable. Laredo chrome and trim pieces are scarce. Manual transmission models outsell automatics among enthusiasts. Verify the tub has not been replaced; original bodies are more valuable.
The CJ-7 was produced from 1976 to 1986. It was the first CJ to offer an automatic transmission and removable hardtop. The Laredo was the luxury trim introduced in 1980. Total CJ-7 production exceeded 379,000 units. Built at Jeep's Toledo, Ohio plant under AMC ownership.