The 1986 Jeep Grand Wagoneer sits at the heart of automotive history as the original luxury SUV, pioneering the entire segment decades before Range Rovers became commonplace in suburban driveways. By ’86, AMC had perfected the formula that Brooks Stevens first sketched in 1963: four-wheel-drive capability wrapped in wood-grain luxury that appealed to affluent families who wanted more than a station wagon but weren’t ready to sacrifice comfort for capability. This particular example, currently up for grabs on Bring-a-Trailer features Wagonmaster restoration that transforms the grandfather of luxury SUVs into a trail-ready machine without abandoning its refined roots.
The Wagonmaster Touch
When Chrysler pulled the plug on the Grand Wagoneer in 1991, Leon Miller saw an opportunity that others missed. His Kerrville, Texas-based Wagonmaster operation became the unofficial keeper of the Grand Wagoneer flame, transforming tired examples into museum-quality machines. This particular ’86 example received the full treatment, emerging with that distinctive silver paint job accented by black and red pinstripes — a departure from the classic wood-grain panels but one that gives this truck a more contemporary, trail-ready aesthetic.
The modifications strike that sweet spot between preserving the Grand Wagoneer’s original character while addressing its inherent limitations. Steel Dozer bumpers with recovery points, a Smittybilt XRC8 winch, and an Arksen roof basket turn what was originally a suburban status symbol into something that can actually handle serious off-road duty.
Power and Performance Upgrades
Under the hood sits a replacement 401ci V8 that’s been properly sorted with forged pistons, a mild performance cam, and hardened rods, all leading to a Flowmaster exhaust. The three-core aluminum radiator rectifies the cooling issues that originally plagued these trucks. Paired with the original three-speed automatic and Selec-Trac four-wheel-drive system, this setup delivers both the torque and capability the Grand Wagoneer always promised but didn’t always deliver.
The lift kit and 33-inch BFGoodrich All-Terrains mounted on Mickey Thompson beadlock-style wheels completely change the truck’s stance and capability. Bilstein shocks and Warn locking hubs complete the transformation.
Interior Refinement
Inside, the burgundy leather and cloth interior give you that classic Grand Wagoneer luxury feel while adding modern conveniences like Bluetooth connectivity through an Alpine head unit paired with a Rockford Fosgate subwoofer. Power everything, from seats to windows to locks, keeps the premium experience intact, while the original analog gauges and leather-wrapped steering wheel preserve the vintage charm.
Spec Sheet
Model: 1986 Jeep Grand Wagoneer (Wagonmaster-modified)
Engine: Carbureted 401ci V8 with performance modifications
Transmission: Three-speed automatic with Selec-Trac 4WD
Mileage: 54,000 miles
Suspension: Lift kit with Bilstein shocks
Wheels/Tires: Mickey Thompson 15″ beadlock-style wheels, 33″ BFGoodrich All-Terrains
Notable Features: Glass sunroof, Smittybilt winch, steel bumpers, Alpine stereo system
Pricing & Availability
Currently sitting at $20,000 on Bring-a-Trailer with one day remaining, this 1986 Grand Wagoneer around 54,000 miles and a clean Carfax report with no accidents.
Recap
1986 Jeep Grand Wagoneer Auction
Currently bidding at $20,000 on Bring-a-Trailer, this Wagonmaster-restored 1986 Jeep Grand Wagoneer transforms the original luxury SUV pioneer into a trail-capable machine through thoughtful modifications like a rebuilt 401ci V8, lift kit, and serious off-road hardware while preserving the refined interior that made these trucks suburban status symbols.
