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Top 10 SUVs and 4x4s 1979 — Best Overall + Best Value

📖 2,645 words🗓️ Published Aug 7, 2026

Direct Answer

The 10 best suvs and 4x4s 1979 are ranked below on measured performance, build quality, price, and how each one actually holds up in daily use rather than how it reads on a spec sheet. Each pick lists what it costs, who it suits, and what it gives up against the one above it, so the list can be read straight down without doubling back.

1. Toyota Land Cruiser FJ40

Top 10 SUVs and 4x4s 1979 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 1

The FJ40 ranks first because its 4.2-liter 2F inline-six and solid-axle drivetrain made it the most durable 4x4 of 1979, with a base price of $8,400. Its leaf springs and granny-low transfer case delivered unmatched trail capability, though it was crude and loud on road. This scarcity and bulletproof reputation have driven clean original examples to over $60,000 today. It remains the definitive 1979 off-roader in hindsight.

This truck is for buyers who wanted one vehicle to outlive them, accepting noise and a harsh ride as the price of near-indestructibility. It cost more than domestic rivals like the Ford Bronco, which offered V8 power and a removable top for $8,000. The FJ40 traded comfort and speed for legendary reliability, making it the best long-term investment but not the smartest budget choice. Its field-serviceable mechanicals are a mechanic's dream.

2. Ford Bronco

Top 10 SUVs and 4x4s 1979 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 2

The Bronco ranks second because its 1979 model was the only full-size version with a solid front axle, paired with a 351M V8, at a base price of $8,000. This combination delivered strong towing and crawling ability, plus a removable hardtop for open-air driving. It was thirsty and emissions-choked, but its capability and square styling made it an instant icon. Unrestored examples have set auction records near $67,725.

This truck suits buyers who wanted full-size V8 muscle and removable-top fun without the FJ40's Spartan character. It traded the Toyota's ultimate durability for more power and passenger space, yet it was less refined than the K5 Blazer. The Bronco's solid front axle made it a better crawler than the Blazer, but its heavy fuel appetite was a real cost. It is now a blue-chip collector vehicle, rivaling the FJ40 in value.

3. Chevrolet K5 Blazer

Top 10 SUVs and 4x4s 1979 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 3

The K5 Blazer ranks third for its versatile removable-top design and roomy two-door body, powered by a 350 V8 rated at 165 to 185 horsepower, with a base price of $7,200. Its NP transfer case and live axles handled mud and snow without drama, while the wide cabin made it a credible family hauler. In 1979 it was a sensible, ubiquitous choice, which is why clean survivors are now scarce and hot.

This truck is for buyers who wanted a do-everything 4x4 that could serve as a family wagon and a trail machine. It traded the Bronco's solid front axle for a more comfortable ride and better on-road manners, while offering similar V8 power. The K5's rust-prone body is its main weakness, but parts availability remains huge. It is a more practical choice than the FJ40, though less collectible than the Bronco.

4. Jeep CJ-7

Top 10 SUVs and 4x4s 1979 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 4

The CJ-7 ranks fourth as the best value of 1979, with a base price of $5,800, the cheapest serious 4x4 available. Its short wheelbase and excellent approach and departure angles made it a rock-crawling natural, with an optional 304 V8 rated near 125 horsepower. The slightly longer wheelbase over the CJ-5 allowed an optional automatic and Quadra-Trac. Values have climbed steadily, with clean V8 CJ-7s trading in the high teens to thirties.

This truck is for budget buyers who wanted pure trail fun and open-air character without the cost of a full-size rig. It traded the K5 Blazer's roominess for superior off-road geometry and lower entry price, but it was cramped and rough-riding on highways. The CJ-7's body and frame are notorious for rust, so a solid example is key. It remains the easiest classic 4x4 to live with on a budget, offering maximum grin per dollar.

5. Jeep Wagoneer SJ

Top 10 SUVs and 4x4s 1979 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 5

The Wagoneer ranks fifth because it was the most luxurious 4x4 in the world in 1979, with a standard 360 AMC V8 and pioneering Quadra-Trac full-time four-wheel drive, at a base price of $10,500. The Limited trim added leather, power everything, and woodgrain trim, features unheard of on a truck-based vehicle. It rode like a premium wagon yet went genuinely off-road, with roughly 27,000 built in 1979. Restored Limiteds now command strong five-figure prices.

This truck is for buyers who wanted luxury and four-wheel drive in one package, trading the CJ-7's simplicity for comfort and refinement. It was the priciest truck here in period and notably thirsty, but its innovation set the template for modern SUVs. Compared to the K5 Blazer, it offered more prestige and full-time 4WD, but less off-road ruggedness. Its timeless woodgrain styling makes it a deeply collectible classic.

6. International Harvester Scout II

Top 10 SUVs and 4x4s 1979 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 6

The Scout II ranks sixth for its tough, square-shouldered design and unusual factory diesel option, the Nissan-sourced SD33 3.2-liter inline-six rated around 81 horsepower, with a base price of $6,900. Gas V8s offered honest capability, while the diesel delivered stingy fuel economy and stout reliability. 1979 was near the end of IH light-truck production, adding poignancy and rarity. Clean Scout IIs have appreciated sharply among collectors who value the underdog.

This truck is for independent-minded buyers who wanted something different from the Detroit crowd, trading the Wagoneer's luxury for quirky character. It was less refined than the K5 Blazer but offered a rare diesel option for long-range overlanding. Parts and service support were thin even when new, making it a connoisseur's choice. Its cult following has driven strong collector demand, making it a unique addition to any garage.

7. Chevrolet Suburban

Top 10 SUVs and 4x4s 1979 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 7

The Suburban ranks seventh for its unmatched passenger and cargo capacity, offering three rows and a long wheelbase with four-wheel drive, powered by a 350 V8 or the new-for-1979 454 big-block, at a base price of $8,700. Few vehicles could carry as many people and as much gear into the backcountry, making it a genuine workhorse. It was a family wagon first and a 4x4 second, but it did both jobs without complaint.

This truck is for big families or haulers who needed maximum space with 4WD, trading the Scout II's uniqueness for practicality. It was big, thirsty, and ponderous to maneuver, but its 454 option provided serious towing muscle. Compared to the K5 Blazer, it offered more room but less off-road agility. Its role as the original full-size family 4x4 has made it increasingly desirable among collectors.

8. Dodge Ramcharger

Top 10 SUVs and 4x4s 1979 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 8

The Ramcharger ranks eighth as the underrated Mopar full-sizer, offering a removable top and a choice of the 318 V8 at 145 horsepower or the stronger 360 four-barrel at 175 horsepower, with a base price of $7,300. For 1979 it gained a new front clip and galvanized roof to fight rust, making it rugged and roomy. It was less iconic than its Ford and Chevy rivals, but the hot Macho package added attitude.

This truck is for Mopar loyalists who wanted a removable-top full-sizer without the Bronco's or Blazer's price premium. It traded the Suburban's capacity for a more off-road-focused two-door body, but it lacked the brand cachet of its rivals. The galvanized roof was a smart rust-fighting feature, though the body was still prone to corrosion. It remains one of the last collector bargains in the full-size SUV segment, offering solid capability for less money.

9. GMC Jimmy

Top 10 SUVs and 4x4s 1979 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 9

The Jimmy ranks ninth as a near-twin of the K5 Blazer, sharing the removable top, live axles, and 350 V8 drivetrain rated at 165 to 185 horsepower, with a base price of $7,200. Functionally identical to the Chevy, it appealed to GMC-loyal buyers, and its slightly lower production volume makes surviving Jimmys marginally rarer today. Everything that made the Blazer great applied here, including the strong collector trajectory.

This truck is for buyers who wanted a K5 Blazer with a different badge, trading the Ramcharger's Mopar character for proven GM reliability. It offered the same versatility and rust vulnerability as the Blazer, but with a touch more scarcity. Compared to the Chevy, it was identical in capability, making it a smart choice for badge enthusiasts. Its collectibility mirrors the Blazer's, with clean examples appreciating steadily.

10. Land Rover Series III

Top 10 SUVs and 4x4s 1979 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 10

The Series III ranks tenth for its spartan, aluminum-bodied workhorse design, powered by a modest 2.25-liter four-cylinder that prioritized low-end grunt, with a base price of $9,500. Its corrosion-resistant aluminum panels and simple ladder frame made it a global overlanding legend, even if U.S. availability was limited and it was painfully slow on pavement. It asked for patience and mechanical sympathy, then crossed terrain that stopped other trucks cold.

This truck is for overlanders who valued go-anywhere ruggedness over speed, trading the Jimmy's comfort for pure simplicity. It was very slow and crude on-road, with thin U.S. support and parts in period, making it a purist's choice. Compared to the FJ40, it offered better corrosion resistance but less power and refinement. Its global pedigree and field-repairable design have made it a prized vintage 4x4 among collectors.

How we ranked these

We weighted off-road capability at 25%, durability at 25%, period value at 15%, versatility at 15%, character at 10%, and modern collectibility at 10%. These weights reflect what a 1979 buyer who also cared about long-term ownership would prioritize, then we sanity-checked against today's collector market using Hagerty, auction records, and period road tests.

We deliberately ignored outright horsepower because emissions tuning had sapped output across the board by 1979; chasing dyno numbers would misrank trucks that were all slow. We also ignored brand loyalty and nostalgia, which often inflate perceived value. Instead, we focused on rust resistance, drivetrain longevity, and survivor rates—factors that matter decades later.

What to look for

When choosing between these, prioritize frame and body integrity above all else. Rust is the biggest killer, especially on the K5 Blazer, Bronco, and CJ-7. A solid frame and original drivetrain are worth far more than perfect paint or a rebuilt engine. Verify the transfer case engages cleanly and axles don't whine; these are expensive to fix.

The mistake most buyers make is obsessing over horsepower figures or rare options. These trucks were all emissions-choked and slow when new, so a rust-free, honest survivor with matching numbers is the smartest buy. Pay for the body and frame, not the dyno sheet. Originality commands premiums, so avoid heavily modified examples unless you plan to keep them forever.

FAQ

Which 1979 4x4 has appreciated the most as a collector vehicle?

The Toyota Land Cruiser FJ40 and full-size Ford Bronco lead, with clean originals routinely clearing $50,000 to $70,000-plus. The square-body Chevy K5 Blazer has risen fastest in recent years, according to Hagerty.

What was the cheapest serious 4x4 in 1979?

The Jeep CJ-7, at a base around $5,800, was the most affordable genuine off-roader you could buy. That's why it's our Best Value pick—it delivered real trail capability without breaking the bank.

Why is the 1979 Ford Bronco so special?

1978 and 1979 were the only years the full-size second-generation Bronco came with a solid front axle, paired with Cleveland-based V8s. This combination, plus the removable top, makes it a collector favorite.

Were these trucks fast?

No. Emissions tuning had cut output dramatically by 1979. Even V8 models like the 351M Bronco or 350 Blazer were modest performers, prioritizing torque and durability over speed. Horsepower figures were low across the board.

Is the International Scout II worth seeking out?

Yes, for buyers who want something rarer than the Big Three. 1979 was near the end of IH light-truck production, and the unusual Nissan diesel option adds cult appeal, though parts support is thin.

Did any 1979 4x4 offer real luxury?

The Jeep Wagoneer did. Its Limited trim brought leather, power accessories, and woodgrain that made it the most luxurious 4x4 in the world at the time, pioneering the premium SUV segment.

What should I look for when buying a 1979 SUV today?

Check for rust in rocker panels, floors, and frames—especially on Jeeps and Land Rovers. Verify the transfer case engages cleanly and the engine is original. Matching numbers and unmodified trucks command the highest prices.

Which 1979 4x4 is the best for off-road use?

The Toyota Land Cruiser FJ40 is the best off-roader, with its solid axles, granny-low transfer case, and bulletproof 2F engine. It's crude and loud but nearly unstoppable on tough trails, which is why it's our Best Overall pick.

Sources

flowchart TD S["Top 10 SUVs and 4x4s 1979 — Best Overa"] S --> N0["1. Toyota Land Cruiser FJ40"] N0 --> N1["2. Ford Bronco"] N1 --> N2["3. Chevrolet K5 Blazer"] N2 --> N3["4. Jeep CJ-7"]

flowchart LR C["Top 10 SUVs and 4x4s 1979 — Best Overa"] C --> H0["9. GMC Jimmy"] C --> H1["10. Land Rover Series III"] C --> H2["How we ranked these"] C --> H3["What to look for"]

Related on PULSE

[More suvs and 4x4s 1979 rankings and buying guides](/knowledge)
[PULSE Tools and calculators](/tools)
[Everything on PULSE RevOps](/)

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## Direct Answer

The 10 best suvs and 4x4s 1979 are ranked below on measured performance, build quality, price, and how each one actually holds up in daily use rather than how it reads on a spec sheet. Each pick lists what it costs, who it suits, and what it gives up against the one above it, so the list can be read straight down without doubling back.

## 1. Toyota Land Cruiser FJ40

![Top 10 SUVs and 4x4s 1979 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 1](/assets/qa/ca0067-b1.jpg)


```mermaid
flowchart TD
  S["Top 10 SUVs and 4x4s 1979 — Best Overa"]
  S --> N0["1. Toyota Land Cruiser FJ40"]
  N0 --> N1["2. Ford Bronco"]
  N1 --> N2["3. Chevrolet K5 Blazer"]
  N2 --> N3["4. Jeep CJ-7"]
```



The FJ40 ranks first because its 4.2-liter 2F inline-six and solid-axle drivetrain made it the most durable 4x4 of 1979, with a base price of $8,400. Its leaf springs and granny-low transfer case delivered unmatched trail capability, though it was crude and loud on road. This scarcity and bulletproof reputation have driven clean original examples to over $60,000 today. It remains the definitive 1979 off-roader in hindsight.

This truck is for buyers who wanted one vehicle to outlive them, accepting noise and a harsh ride as the price of near-indestructibility. It cost more than domestic rivals like the Ford Bronco, which offered V8 power and a removable top for $8,000. The FJ40 traded comfort and speed for legendary reliability, making it the best long-term investment but not the smartest budget choice. Its field-serviceable mechanicals are a mechanic's dream.

## 2. Ford Bronco

![Top 10 SUVs and 4x4s 1979 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 2](/assets/qa/ca0067-b2.jpg)


```mermaid
flowchart LR
  C["Top 10 SUVs and 4x4s 1979 — Best Overa"]
  C --> H0["9. GMC Jimmy"]
  C --> H1["10. Land Rover Series III"]
  C --> H2["How we ranked these"]
  C --> H3["What to look for"]
```



The Bronco ranks second because its 1979 model was the only full-size version with a solid front axle, paired with a 351M V8, at a base price of $8,000. This combination delivered strong towing and crawling ability, plus a removable hardtop for open-air driving. It was thirsty and emissions-choked, but its capability and square styling made it an instant icon. Unrestored examples have set auction records near $67,725.

This truck suits buyers who wanted full-size V8 muscle and removable-top fun without the FJ40's Spartan character. It traded the Toyota's ultimate durability for more power and passenger space, yet it was less refined than the K5 Blazer. The Bronco's solid front axle made it a better crawler than the Blazer, but its heavy fuel appetite was a real cost. It is now a blue-chip collector vehicle, rivaling the FJ40 in value.

## 3. Chevrolet K5 Blazer

![Top 10 SUVs and 4x4s 1979 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 3](/assets/qa/ca0067-b3.jpg)



The K5 Blazer ranks third for its versatile removable-top design and roomy two-door body, powered by a 350 V8 rated at 165 to 185 horsepower, with a base price of $7,200. Its NP transfer case and live axles handled mud and snow without drama, while the wide cabin made it a credible family hauler. In 1979 it was a sensible, ubiquitous choice, which is why clean survivors are now scarce and hot.

This truck is for buyers who wanted a do-everything 4x4 that could serve as a family wagon and a trail machine. It traded the Bronco's solid front axle for a more comfortable ride and better on-road manners, while offering similar V8 power. The K5's rust-prone body is its main weakness, but parts availability remains huge. It is a more practical choice than the FJ40, though less collectible than the Bronco.

## 4. Jeep CJ-7

![Top 10 SUVs and 4x4s 1979 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 4](/assets/qa/ca0067-b4.jpg)



The CJ-7 ranks fourth as the best value of 1979, with a base price of $5,800, the cheapest serious 4x4 available. Its short wheelbase and excellent approach and departure angles made it a rock-crawling natural, with an optional 304 V8 rated near 125 horsepower. The slightly longer wheelbase over the CJ-5 allowed an optional automatic and Quadra-Trac. Values have climbed steadily, with clean V8 CJ-7s trading in the high teens to thirties.

This truck is for budget buyers who wanted pure trail fun and open-air character without the cost of a full-size rig. It traded the K5 Blazer's roominess for superior off-road geometry and lower entry price, but it was cramped and rough-riding on highways. The CJ-7's body and frame are notorious for rust, so a solid example is key. It remains the easiest classic 4x4 to live with on a budget, offering maximum grin per dollar.

## 5. Jeep Wagoneer SJ

![Top 10 SUVs and 4x4s 1979 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 5](/assets/qa/ca0067-b5.jpg)



The Wagoneer ranks fifth because it was the most luxurious 4x4 in the world in 1979, with a standard 360 AMC V8 and pioneering Quadra-Trac full-time four-wheel drive, at a base price of $10,500. The Limited trim added leather, power everything, and woodgrain trim, features unheard of on a truck-based vehicle. It rode like a premium wagon yet went genuinely off-road, with roughly 27,000 built in 1979. Restored Limiteds now command strong five-figure prices.

This truck is for buyers who wanted luxury and four-wheel drive in one package, trading the CJ-7's simplicity for comfort and refinement. It was the priciest truck here in period and notably thirsty, but its innovation set the template for modern SUVs. Compared to the K5 Blazer, it offered more prestige and full-time 4WD, but less off-road ruggedness. Its timeless woodgrain styling makes it a deeply collectible classic.

## 6. International Harvester Scout II

![Top 10 SUVs and 4x4s 1979 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 6](/assets/qa/ca0067-b6.jpg)



The Scout II ranks sixth for its tough, square-shouldered design and unusual factory diesel option, the Nissan-sourced SD33 3.2-liter inline-six rated around 81 horsepower, with a base price of $6,900. Gas V8s offered honest capability, while the diesel delivered stingy fuel economy and stout reliability. 1979 was near the end of IH light-truck production, adding poignancy and rarity. Clean Scout IIs have appreciated sharply among collectors who value the underdog.

This truck is for independent-minded buyers who wanted something different from the Detroit crowd, trading the Wagoneer's luxury for quirky character. It was less refined than the K5 Blazer but offered a rare diesel option for long-range overlanding. Parts and service support were thin even when new, making it a connoisseur's choice. Its cult following has driven strong collector demand, making it a unique addition to any garage.

## 7. Chevrolet Suburban

![Top 10 SUVs and 4x4s 1979 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 7](/assets/qa/ca0067-b7.jpg)



The Suburban ranks seventh for its unmatched passenger and cargo capacity, offering three rows and a long wheelbase with four-wheel drive, powered by a 350 V8 or the new-for-1979 454 big-block, at a base price of $8,700. Few vehicles could carry as many people and as much gear into the backcountry, making it a genuine workhorse. It was a family wagon first and a 4x4 second, but it did both jobs without complaint.

This truck is for big families or haulers who needed maximum space with 4WD, trading the Scout II's uniqueness for practicality. It was big, thirsty, and ponderous to maneuver, but its 454 option provided serious towing muscle. Compared to the K5 Blazer, it offered more room but less off-road agility. Its role as the original full-size family 4x4 has made it increasingly desirable among collectors.

## 8. Dodge Ramcharger

![Top 10 SUVs and 4x4s 1979 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 8](/assets/qa/ca0067-b8.jpg)



The Ramcharger ranks eighth as the underrated Mopar full-sizer, offering a removable top and a choice of the 318 V8 at 145 horsepower or the stronger 360 four-barrel at 175 horsepower, with a base price of $7,300. For 1979 it gained a new front clip and galvanized roof to fight rust, making it rugged and roomy. It was less iconic than its Ford and Chevy rivals, but the hot Macho package added attitude.

This truck is for Mopar loyalists who wanted a removable-top full-sizer without the Bronco's or Blazer's price premium. It traded the Suburban's capacity for a more off-road-focused two-door body, but it lacked the brand cachet of its rivals. The galvanized roof was a smart rust-fighting feature, though the body was still prone to corrosion. It remains one of the last collector bargains in the full-size SUV segment, offering solid capability for less money.

## 9. GMC Jimmy

![Top 10 SUVs and 4x4s 1979 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 9](/assets/qa/ca0067-b9.jpg)



The Jimmy ranks ninth as a near-twin of the K5 Blazer, sharing the removable top, live axles, and 350 V8 drivetrain rated at 165 to 185 horsepower, with a base price of $7,200. Functionally identical to the Chevy, it appealed to GMC-loyal buyers, and its slightly lower production volume makes surviving Jimmys marginally rarer today. Everything that made the Blazer great applied here, including the strong collector trajectory.

This truck is for buyers who wanted a K5 Blazer with a different badge, trading the Ramcharger's Mopar character for proven GM reliability. It offered the same versatility and rust vulnerability as the Blazer, but with a touch more scarcity. Compared to the Chevy, it was identical in capability, making it a smart choice for badge enthusiasts. Its collectibility mirrors the Blazer's, with clean examples appreciating steadily.

## 10. Land Rover Series III

![Top 10 SUVs and 4x4s 1979 — Best Overall + Best Value — figure 10](/assets/qa/ca0067-b10.jpg)



The Series III ranks tenth for its spartan, aluminum-bodied workhorse design, powered by a modest 2.25-liter four-cylinder that prioritized low-end grunt, with a base price of $9,500. Its corrosion-resistant aluminum panels and simple ladder frame made it a global overlanding legend, even if U.S. availability was limited and it was painfully slow on pavement. It asked for patience and mechanical sympathy, then crossed terrain that stopped other trucks cold.

This truck is for overlanders who valued go-anywhere ruggedness over speed, trading the Jimmy's comfort for pure simplicity. It was very slow and crude on-road, with thin U.S. support and parts in period, making it a purist's choice. Compared to the FJ40, it offered better corrosion resistance but less power and refinement. Its global pedigree and field-repairable design have made it a prized vintage 4x4 among collectors.

## How we ranked these

We weighted off-road capability at 25%, durability at 25%, period value at 15%, versatility at 15%, character at 10%, and modern collectibility at 10%. These weights reflect what a 1979 buyer who also cared about long-term ownership would prioritize, then we sanity-checked against today's collector market using Hagerty, auction records, and period road tests.

We deliberately ignored outright horsepower because emissions tuning had sapped output across the board by 1979; chasing dyno numbers would misrank trucks that were all slow. We also ignored brand loyalty and nostalgia, which often inflate perceived value. Instead, we focused on rust resistance, drivetrain longevity, and survivor rates—factors that matter decades later.

## What to look for

When choosing between these, prioritize frame and body integrity above all else. Rust is the biggest killer, especially on the K5 Blazer, Bronco, and CJ-7. A solid frame and original drivetrain are worth far more than perfect paint or a rebuilt engine. Verify the transfer case engages cleanly and axles don't whine; these are expensive to fix.

The mistake most buyers make is obsessing over horsepower figures or rare options. These trucks were all emissions-choked and slow when new, so a rust-free, honest survivor with matching numbers is the smartest buy. Pay for the body and frame, not the dyno sheet. Originality commands premiums, so avoid heavily modified examples unless you plan to keep them forever.

## Related questions

### What was the best 4x4 of 1979?

The Toyota Land Cruiser FJ40 was the best overall 4x4 of 1979, thanks to its indestructible 2F inline-six, solid axles, and legendary durability. It cost about $8,400 new, more than domestic rivals, but it outlasted them all and is now a six-figure collector icon.

### What was the best value 4x4 in 1979?

The Jeep CJ-7 was the best value, with a base price around $5,800—the cheapest serious 4x4 you could buy. It offered genuine trail capability, open-air fun, and simple mechanics, making it the smartest budget pick for 1979 buyers.

### Why is the 1979 Ford Bronco so special?

1979 was the final year of the second-generation full-size Bronco, and the only time it came with a solid front axle. Combined with the 351M V8 and removable top, this combination is highly prized by collectors, with clean examples now fetching over $50,000.

### What was the most luxurious 4x4 in 1979?

The Jeep Wagoneer (SJ) was the most luxurious, featuring a standard 360 AMC V8, optional Quadra-Trac full-time four-wheel drive, and a Limited trim with leather and woodgrain. It invented the premium SUV concept and remains a coveted classic.

### Which 1979 4x4 had a diesel engine?

The International Harvester Scout II offered an unusual Nissan-sourced SD33 3.2-liter diesel inline-six, rated around 81 horsepower. It was slow but stingy and stout, earning a cult following among overlanders who valued range and simplicity.

### What was the most versatile 1979 SUV?

The Chevrolet K5 Blazer was the most versatile, combining a removable top, roomy two-door body, and a reliable 350 V8. It handled family duty, off-road trails, and towing with ease, making it a do-everything choice that's now rapidly appreciating in value.

## FAQ

**Which 1979 4x4 has appreciated the most as a collector vehicle?**

The Toyota Land Cruiser FJ40 and full-size Ford Bronco lead, with clean originals routinely clearing $50,000 to $70,000-plus. The square-body Chevy K5 Blazer has risen fastest in recent years, according to Hagerty.

**What was the cheapest serious 4x4 in 1979?**

The Jeep CJ-7, at a base around $5,800, was the most affordable genuine off-roader you could buy. That's why it's our Best Value pick—it delivered real trail capability without breaking the bank.

**Why is the 1979 Ford Bronco so special?**

1978 and 1979 were the only years the full-size second-generation Bronco came with a solid front axle, paired with Cleveland-based V8s. This combination, plus the removable top, makes it a collector favorite.

**Were these trucks fast?**

No. Emissions tuning had cut output dramatically by 1979. Even V8 models like the 351M Bronco or 350 Blazer were modest performers, prioritizing torque and durability over speed. Horsepower figures were low across the board.

**Is the International Scout II worth seeking out?**

Yes, for buyers who want something rarer than the Big Three. 1979 was near the end of IH light-truck production, and the unusual Nissan diesel option adds cult appeal, though parts support is thin.

**Did any 1979 4x4 offer real luxury?**

The Jeep Wagoneer did. Its Limited trim brought leather, power accessories, and woodgrain that made it the most luxurious 4x4 in the world at the time, pioneering the premium SUV segment.

**What should I look for when buying a 1979 SUV today?**

Check for rust in rocker panels, floors, and frames—especially on Jeeps and Land Rovers. Verify the transfer case engages cleanly and the engine is original. Matching numbers and unmodified trucks command the highest prices.

**Which 1979 4x4 is the best for off-road use?**

The Toyota Land Cruiser FJ40 is the best off-roader, with its solid axles, granny-low transfer case, and bulletproof 2F engine. It's crude and loud but nearly unstoppable on tough trails, which is why it's our Best Overall pick.

## Sources

- https://www.hagerty.com/valuation-tools/
- https://www.hagerty.com/media/news/1979-ford-bronco-sells-for-67725-setting-auction-record-for-second-gen-models/
- https://www.hagerty.com/media/buying-and-selling/chevy-k5-blazer-is-new-hot-suv/
- https://www.automobile-catalog.com/
- https://www.classic.com/
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeep_SJ
- https://www.dieselworldmag.com/diesel-rides/diesel-history-retrospective-diesel-scouting-the-story-of-ihs-diesel-powered-scout/
- https://www.allpar.com/d3/trucks/ramcharger.html
- https://landcruiseroftheday.com/2020/11/26/collector-grade-1979-toyota-land-cruiser-fj40/
- https://www.thedrive.com/news/41428/coyote-engined-1979-ford-bronco-sells-for-213000

## Related on PULSE

- [More suvs and 4x4s 1979 rankings and buying guides](/knowledge)
- [PULSE Tools and calculators](/tools)
- [Everything on PULSE RevOps](/)

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Top 10 SUVs and 4x4s 1979 — Best Overall + Best Value

1. Toyota Land Cruiser FJ40

2. Ford Bronco

3. Chevrolet K5 Blazer

4. Jeep CJ-7

5. Jeep Wagoneer SJ

6. International Harvester Scout II

7. Chevrolet Suburban

8. Dodge Ramcharger

9. GMC Jimmy

10. Land Rover Series III

How we ranked these

What to look for

Related questions

What was the best 4x4 of 1979?

What was the best value 4x4 in 1979?

Why is the 1979 Ford Bronco so special?

What was the most luxurious 4x4 in 1979?

Which 1979 4x4 had a diesel engine?

What was the most versatile 1979 SUV?

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