This V8 Jeep CJ Restomod Is A Perfect 1980s Throwback With Modern Guts

Jeep restomods are a dime a dozen, but not many opt for the power offered by a giant Hemi V8. Vigilante's 4x4 Scrambler does, though, how the company keeps the CJ's frame from being snapped in half under acceleration falls firmly under "unknown." It's based on the CJ pickup, sold by Jeep from 1981 to 1986. Basically, Jeep wanted to keep the open-roof feel of the CJ-7 and add a little practicality. It's effectively what inspired today's Gladiator.

The truck's wheelbase rose by a whole ten inches to create some additional room for passengers and cargo, but remains rare today due to circumstances Jeep couldn't have foreseen. The brand introduced the CJ pickup right as Japanese compact pickups began to become popular with American buyers. Their lower price points and reliability eventually led to poor sales despite the Jeep's standard four-wheel drive. As a result, fewer than 28,000 ever left Jeep's factory. Today, they're a popular piece of Jeep history, but they aren't exactly great to drive.

Vigilante aims to change that. Upgrading the driving experience starts with a new, upgraded chassis custom-made for Vigilante with four-link suspension, revised steering geometry, and beefier off-road axles from Dana. The wheels carry huge 285/70/17 BFGoodrich T/A KO3 all-terrain tires, and are spun by the same Hemi V8 used in Dodge models like the Challenger and Charger. Here, it makes the same 485 horsepower as those famous Dodge muscle cars. It's paired with a five-speed manual, but Vigilante will also do you an automatic, if you'd like. Braking needed to be upgraded as a result of the extra power and rubber, and is now handled by Baer 6-piston calipers.

Inside, the interior aims to stay faithful to the original CJs. All the same bits are there, but done up in a new. That means new seating material and a crop of half or full hardtops if you don't want a soft top. Modern updates include Bluetooth, modern climate control, added sound deadening, and new speakers. All this isn't cheap, though, with prices starting at $260,000. Still, it's a much more interesting choice than rolling around in a new Porsche Cayenne for your day-to-day chores.

This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Apr 28, 2026, where it first appeared in the Gear section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

2026 The Arena Group Holdings, Inc. All rights reserved.

This story was originally published April 28, 2026 at 2:17 PM.