The Jeep Comanche is a great car, so it's becoming more and more challenging to find one for sale. It is a fantastic option if you're seeking a vintage pickup truck that will maintain its value over time. But if you want one, you need to move quickly since prices are rising and collectors are getting more knowledgeable.
This article will delve into every detail regarding the Jeep Comanche you probably didn't know, whether you're seeking to buy or simply want to learn more.
The Jeep Comanche was introduced in 1986 by AMC-owned Jeep to compete in the American and Japanese markets. It was built on the Jeep Cherokee to reduce manufacturing costs by AMC (American Motors Corporation), which also controlled the Jeep and Dodge truck brands.
The Jeep Comanche's hybrid structure and body design offered it a class-leading cargo capacity, while later models with a straight-six 4.0L fuel-injected gas engine were robust and efficient.
For several years, it competed against the Toyota Hilux, the market leader, and other potent rivals, including the Dodge Ram 50, Ford Ranger, and Mazda B Series, with very little success.
The Jeep Comanche was abandoned due to Chrysler's corporate acquisition of AMC in 1987, which resulted in the division of its market offers, with Dodge operating as its body-on-frame truck line and Jeep concentrating on the growing SUV market.
Despite this setback, the best year for sales of the Jeep Comanche was 1988, when 43,718 units were sold. The Comanche dropped out of the truck competition in 1992, with only 952 units produced that year.
This truck broke nine records, including four records outside of the United States, which is a remarkable accomplishment for any vehicle. In the 1986 Bonneville time trials, they upgraded one of their two-wheel-drive trucks with a new engine, enabling it to hit a high speed of 144 mph.
This vehicle was also advertised for contests on paved roads (SCCA) and off-road (SCORE), where it destroyed the opposition. No one could have predicted this turn of events when this vehicle was initially introduced.
Only 200,000 Jeep Comanches were ever produced, which is one of the factors contributing to this truck's high demand. Despite the low sales, the vehicle was still produced.
Between 1984 and 1987, the Cherokee doubled this truck's manufacturing numbers, which further added to the reasons for its demise.
The 1986 model year produced a 2.8-liter V-6 with 115 horsepower and 150 pound-feet of torque. The 1986-1987 model had a 2.1-liter turbodiesel with 132 pound-feet of torque and 85 horsepower.
The 4.0-liter inline-six engine made its debut for the 1987 model year and produced 173 horsepower and 220 pound-feet of torque. The unit had an update for the 1988 model year, and its power increased marginally to 177 horses and 224 pound-feet. In the 1991 model year, output was improved to 190 horsepower and 225 pound-feet of torque, which was the last modification.
Compared to other trucks from the 1970s and 1980s, the Comanche had remarkable fuel efficiency for a vehicle of its caliber. The 2.5-liter four-cylinder in the 1986 Comanche was capable of up to 21 mpg city and 25 mpg highway. At the end of manufacture, the same engine's fuel efficiency dropped to 18 mpg city and 22 mpg highway. The 4.0-liter straight-six engine could have been more efficient, but it still managed up to 16 mpg city and 20 mpg highway.
The Comanche's fuel efficiency was generally comparable to other pickup trucks like the Ford Ranger and Chevrolet S-10. It was comparable to the Jeep Cherokee as well. It had similarities with some Dodge Aries models, delivering car-like fuel economy with some specifications. Compared to larger vehicles, the Comanche’s fuel efficiency was higher.
The Comanche enjoys an unheard-of lifespan for its producing era. The 4.0-liter inline-six is likely the most durable engine out of all of them, and several models have been driven over 250,000 miles without any significant problems.
But even when problems do occur, replacing parts is typically inexpensive. Millions of Cherokees constructed in the 1980s may be used as a source for components, and the market is also filled with accessories. The Comanche is a durable vehicle that can be used for daily commuting, even if you're transporting large items in its bed. However, some owners may advise that you fix up specific components.
The Jeep Comanche is a fantastic vehicle with many characteristics. Everything you probably didn't know about this truck is stated above in the article. Visit the used car websites and see what's available if you're a classic truck collector looking for an investment opportunity. You might find a nice Jeep Comanche at a great price if you're lucky.
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