Nostalgia often brings about thoughts like “simpler times” or “back-to-basics.” In this edition of Auction Dilemma, we check out two SUVs from the days ago when these were more workhorse than the leather-filled vehicles covering today’s suburban parking lots. Let’s look at a 1986 Jeep Cherokee Pioneer up for auction at Bring a Trailer and a 1988 Toyota 4Runner SR5 at auction on Doug DeMuro’s Cars and Bids.

1986 Jeep Cherokee Pioneer

Auction Dilemma: Jeep Cherokee Vs Toyota 4Runner
bringatrailer.com

Soldiering on in the U.S. from 1984 to 2001, the Cherokee (under Jeep’s XJ body code) helped usher in the modern SUV craze thanks to a lighter-weight unibody platform. This approach was a radical departure from the automaker’s heavy and bulky body-on-frame design that we last saw with the original Grand Wagoneer and previous generation Cherokee. Thanks to a refinished body completed by the previous owner, this Jeep shows in good condition despite having 160,000 miles on the odometer. However, the vehicle’s history report does show a minor to moderate accident along the passenger side in 2001. No additional details are provided.

Power comes from a 2.1-liter turbodiesel engine that was sourced from Renault. No surprise, as this was during the time of the AMC (which owned Jeep) and Renault hookup (which predates the Chrysler takeover of AMC in 1987). While underwhelming in the horsepower department (with output at 86 hp), this small oil burner does offer a bit of torque at 135 lb-ft. Power for this 4WD Jeep is managed by a five-speed manual and a two-speed transfer case.

Auction Dilemma: Jeep Cherokee Vs Toyota 4Runner
bringatrailer.com

Take one look into the cabin, and the geometric pattern on the upholstery is a dead giveaway that this Cherokee dates from the Reagan administration. Yet, the interior appears in good condition despite being on the road for 35 years. And this vehicle is definitely a prime example of back-to-basics. There’s no air conditioning and about the only interior upgrade is an aftermarket Pioneer audio system.

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1988 Toyota 4Runner SR5

Auction Dilemma: Jeep Cherokee Vs Toyota 4Runner
carsandbids.com

Toyota 4Runners enjoy a reputation for ruggedness and reliability that is arguably better than even older Jeeps like its Auction Dilemma counterpart. First appearing in the U.S. for 1984, the 4Runner was a clever addition to Toyota’s lineup that sought to take advantage of the company’s truck platforms while embracing the burgeoning market for SUVs. This first-generation 4Runner is a two-door SUV, something commonplace in the 1980s but virtually non-existent today. Vehicle history shows an accident-free background, with most of its 184,000 miles appearing to have happened in New England. Given its mileage and location, the exterior blemishes and underside rust are almost expected. Interestingly, this 4Runner features a removable hardtop which can make for some fun summertime adventures.

Under the hood, a 3.0-liter V-6, which was originally rated for 145 HP and 180 lb-ft of torque, sends power to all four wheels via a four-speed automatic. The 4WD system includes locking hubs.

Auction Dilemma: Jeep Cherokee Vs Toyota 4Runner
carsandbids.com

Minus a few upholstery imperfections, the cabin in the 4Runner is in decent condition, and that angular dashboard is another reminder of the 1980s. Like the Jeep, there’s not much in the way of interior exteriors, but this Toyota does have air conditioning.

Is One Of The 80s SUVs Worth A Back-to-Basics Bid?

Auction Dilemma: Jeep Cherokee Vs Toyota 4Runner
bringatrailer.com/carsandbids.com

While far from perfect examples of SUVs from more than 30 years ago, both these vehicles are still-running examples that maybe simplicity is everlasting. With two days left, the 1986 Jeep Cherokee Pioneer has a current high bid of $5,000. With a $4,000 high bid, the 1988 Toyota 4Runner has three days left on its auction.

Sources: bringatrailer.com, carsandbids.com, automobile-catalog.com

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