Description
The Jeep Grand Wagoneer Selec-Trac was the definitive expression of the classic American luxury 4×4, combining Jeep’s unmatched off-road engineering with the refinement and elegance that made the model legendary. Introduced during the 1980s, the Selec-Trac version represented the height of mechanical sophistication within the Grand Wagoneer line, pairing the smooth, powerful AMC 360 cubic inch (5.9-litre) V8 engine with one of the most versatile four-wheel-drive systems ever offered by Jeep. It was a vehicle that could glide effortlessly along a highway one moment and climb through snow or mud the next, all without losing its composure or comfort.
Selec-Trac was Jeep’s most advanced 4WD system of its time, designed to give the driver control over how power was distributed between the axles. While earlier Wagoneers used part-time or full-time systems like Quadra-Trac, Selec-Trac offered both in one package. The driver could select rear-wheel drive for normal on-road conditions, full-time four-wheel drive for changing or slippery terrain, or locked four-wheel drive for demanding off-road situations. This flexibility made the Grand Wagoneer Selec-Trac one of the most capable and user-friendly 4x4s ever built, ensuring maximum traction when needed and improved fuel economy when not.
At its core, the Grand Wagoneer Selec-Trac shared the same mechanical foundation that had made the Wagoneer name synonymous with strength and endurance. Its ladder-frame chassis provided exceptional rigidity, while solid Dana axles and heavy-duty leaf springs front and rear gave it both strength and articulation. Power steering, front disc brakes, and a generous ground clearance made it as confident on the trail as it was comfortable on long highway drives. Despite weighing well over two tonnes, it handled predictably and could navigate poor roads or deep snow with ease, attributes that became central to its legend.
The 360 cubic inch V8 engine was perfectly matched to the Selec-Trac system. Producing around 175 horsepower and abundant torque, it delivered smooth, consistent power across all driving conditions. The engine’s character was lazy and effortless rather than aggressive, with a deep, mellow exhaust note that spoke of quiet authority. Mated to Chrysler’s proven TorqueFlite 727 three-speed automatic transmission, the drivetrain delivered a sense of refined strength that was unmatched in its era. Whether cruising at speed or climbing steep terrain, the combination of V8 power and Selec-Trac traction made the Grand Wagoneer feel unshakable.
Visually, the Selec-Trac-equipped Grand Wagoneer carried the same timeless styling that made the model a symbol of American prestige. Its upright lines, large windows, and squared proportions gave it both presence and practicality. The signature woodgrain vinyl panels along the flanks and tailgate, bordered by fine aluminum trim, became an emblem of understated luxury. Chrome bumpers, roof racks, and whitewall tires added further distinction, while Jeep’s seven-slot grille served as a reminder of its rugged lineage. Despite its opulent appearance, every design element had a purpose, from the generous ride height to the expansive glass area that provided superb visibility.
Inside, the Grand Wagoneer Selec-Trac was a showcase of comfort and craftsmanship. The cabin featured plush leather upholstery with fabric inserts, thick carpeting, and real walnut-style veneer on the dashboard and door panels. Every surface was designed to feel rich and welcoming, from the padded steering wheel to the chrome-trimmed controls. Equipment levels were exceptional for the era, including power-adjustable seats, cruise control, air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and a premium stereo system. The wide, flat seats and commanding driving position gave the driver a feeling of total control, while passengers enjoyed a smooth, quiet ride thanks to excellent sound insulation and soft suspension tuning.
Driving the Grand Wagoneer Selec-Trac was an experience that blended old-world craftsmanship with modern versatility. On the open road, the V8 hummed contentedly, providing relaxed acceleration and steady torque. The steering was light, the brakes reassuring, and the suspension soaked up imperfections with ease. Few vehicles of its time offered such a serene and commanding experience behind the wheel. When conditions changed—whether snow-covered mountain passes or muddy trails—the Selec-Trac system could be engaged with a simple switch or lever, instantly transforming the Jeep into a confident, unstoppable machine.
Off-road, the Grand Wagoneer’s ability surprised even seasoned drivers. The solid axles allowed for excellent wheel articulation, while the combination of low-range gearing and V8 torque gave it the muscle to climb steep grades or pull through deep ruts. Despite its size and luxury, it remained a true Jeep at heart, capable of tackling conditions that would stop lesser vehicles. Yet it did so with an ease and smoothness that reflected its refinement rather than brute force.
The Selec-Trac system also made the Grand Wagoneer an excellent year-round vehicle. In regions with harsh winters, it provided the assurance of full-time traction on icy or snow-covered roads, while in drier climates, drivers could revert to rear-wheel drive for quieter, more efficient operation. This adaptability helped make it one of the most practical luxury vehicles of its time and a favorite among professionals, ranchers, and families who needed a vehicle that could handle everything from city streets to remote backroads.
By the late 1980s, the Grand Wagoneer Selec-Trac had become a cultural icon. Its combination of traditional craftsmanship and modern technology gave it an enduring appeal that extended far beyond its production years. Even as newer, more complex SUVs emerged, none matched the warmth, solidity, and authenticity of the Grand Wagoneer. When production ended in 1991, it marked the close of an era—one in which Jeep built vehicles by hand with attention to detail and mechanical integrity rarely seen since.
Today, the Grand Wagoneer Selec-Trac stands as a symbol of timeless design and mechanical honesty. Collectors value it not only for its nostalgic charm but also for its genuine capability and craftsmanship. Its wood-paneled sides, V8 heartbeat, and unmistakable Jeep grille continue to evoke a sense of classic Americana—a reminder of when luxury and utility shared the same road.
The Grand Wagoneer Selec-Trac was more than a luxury 4×4; it was the ultimate expression of Jeep’s dual nature. It was powerful yet poised, sophisticated yet unpretentious. It could conquer a mountain trail in the morning and arrive at a dinner party that evening without changing a thing. In that perfect balance of capability and class, it defined what a true Jeep was meant to be.