Rare and desirable early example which remains very original
Presented in fantastic condition for a vehicle of its age and nature
The vendor informs us that it appears in a number of period publications and on film
The Appeal
While some credit the Range Rover with being ‘the first SUV’, one wonders if they considered the Jeep Wagoneer, released a whole seven years earlier…
The Wagoneer cleverly struck a compromise between the driveability of an estate car (or station wagon) and the off-road capability of a CJ Jeep. We’re delighted to offer this charming early four-wheel drive example, dating from the first year of production. The vendor informs us that this Wagoneer features in several period publications and some film footage, a rich history that’s sure to be cherished y the next owner. It’s in very good condition, especially for a vehicle of this age and nature, without being overly pristine to enjoy in the manner Jeep intended.
Seldom are such early examples offered for sale, so be sure not to miss this excellent opportunity.
The History and Paperwork
Road registered in Portugal
The vendor informs us that the car has been featured in numerous publications and film
At the time of writing, we don’t have access to these, but we understand a rich history file will accompany the car
74,107 kilometres indicated, although we’re unable to authenticate this figure
Originally the car was this blue, but for the American steel company it was painted white and the seller painted it back in the original blue colour back in 1998
This is a Jeep with an interesting history. In 1960 the United States Steel Export Company won the contract to build a bridge to cross the river Tagus in Lisbon. The then prime-minister was the dictator Antonio Salazar and the bridge at the time was named "Salazar Bridge" before it was changed to "25th April Bridge" after the revolution in 1974.
Construction began in 1962, with many American engineers working under contract to oversee the construction. Much of the heavy equipment for the project was imported from the USA including a brand new Jeep Wagoneer (then painted white) as transport for the engineers. The bridge was completed in 1966 and named Ponte Salazar after then Prime Minister of the time.
Once construction was complete the American contractors were leaving and the Jeep was given to one of the Portuguese engineers as a gift. According to the seller, some months later the engineer received a visit from two PIDE agents (the then Portuguese secret police) who pointed out as the Jeep had been given as a gift to a public servant it actually belonged to the Portuguese government, and they seized it!
A couple of years later the Jeep appeared in a Government auction and the seller’s Father purchased it, with thoughts of converting it into a tow truck for the family garage business. He changed his mind and it went on to provide his family with transport until around 1990, when it was placed in a garage. At some stage it was repainted from white to blue, which is thought to have been its original colour when it was built.
Recently removed from storage it has had some light recommissioning to get it almost roadworthy and is said to have covered only 74,000 miles from new.
It is thought to of been the first Wagoneer to come to Europe.
The Condition
Remains a very original example
Well presented inside, out and under the bonnet
Versatile five-door variant with drop-down tailgate and vintage trailer hitch
Very straight for an off-road vehicle, with just a few battle scars around the lower bodywork
The paint has accrued a slight patina, which looks great
Charming patina to the controls
We noticed some slight bubbling in places, but certainly no excessive corrosion so far as we could see
The interior remains very original, with blue vinyl upholstery to match the paintwork
Period-correct steel wheels complete with hubcaps
Very tidy load bay with no notable scratches to the tailgate or sides
The Mechanics
3.8-litre (230 cui) ‘Tornado’ straight-six
Manual gearbox
Coveted four-wheel drive variant (selectable)
Built upon the long-lived SJ platform
We understand it to be in good running and driving condition
The vendor does not report any issues
BEFORE YOU BUY
This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:
✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..
✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.
✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.
✓ VAT is included in the buyer's deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.
✓Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection
or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it’s worth checking beforehand.. If requested, we may refer you to a third-party shipping company who can help. For more details and to speak to the team, email [email protected]
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1963 Jeep Wagoneer 3.8L 4x4
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