Vigilante 4×4, a Texas-based firm specializing in the restoration and enhancement of Jeep models manufactured between 1964 and 1991, has recently unveiled a more subdued project.
Emerging from JeepHeritage, a specialized division within Vigilante 4×4 that focuses on historically faithful restorations, the refurbished 1981 Jeep J-10 Honcho Sportside maintains the authentic aesthetic of this early-1980s pickup. This particular model is a later iteration of the iconic Jeep J-Series and has been carefully revitalized.
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Only 1,264 units of the J-10 Honcho Sportside were produced from 1980 to 1983, as indicated by Vigilante 4×4, making this particular model highly deserving of preservation. Unlike some of the firm’s projects that employ custom-built frames, this vehicle retains its original chassis. The frame has been meticulously sandblasted, galvanized, and powder coated for reuse. The restored body is adorned with era-appropriate graphics and features reimagined stock bumpers and grilles, a combination likely to gain attention at events like Radwood.
The vehicle derives its power from a 401-cubic-inch AMC V-8 engine—the American Motors Corporation owned Jeep at the time the original Honcho was produced. The engine is equipped with a multi-point fuel injection system and a stainless steel exhaust. Further enhancing its capabilities, the truck has been fitted with a six-inch lift at the front suspension and a four-inch lift at the rear, allowing space for either 35-inch BFGoodrich all-terrain tires or 37-inch Goodyear mud-terrain tires.
Interior Features of Vigilante 4×4 JeepHeritage 1981 Jeep J-10 Honcho Sportside
Within the cabin, fresh leather upholstery envelops the seats, dashboard, armrests, and door panels. While the interior retains its classic appearance, it is modernized with the addition of a contemporary audio system, featuring Bluetooth and SiriusXM satellite radio connectivity.
The asking price for this meticulously restored vehicle stands at $145,000.
In addition to this project, Vigilante 4×4 also provides a range of other ‘restomod’ options, varying in levels of customization, for Jeep models such as the Gladiator and Cherokee. The starting prices for these additional offerings can escalate to as high as $300,000.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Vigilante 4×4 Restored 1981 Jeep J-10 Honcho Sportside
What is Vigilante 4×4’s latest project?
Vigilante 4×4’s latest project is a restoration of a 1981 Jeep J-10 Honcho Sportside. The project is spearheaded by JeepHeritage, a specialized division within the company that focuses on historically faithful restorations.
How has Vigilante 4×4 restored the Jeep J-10 Honcho Sportside?
The 1981 Jeep J-10 Honcho Sportside was restored by maintaining its original chassis, which was sandblasted, galvanized, and powder-coated for reuse. The vehicle features a rebuilt body with era-appropriate graphics and reimagined stock bumpers and grilles. Its engine is a 401-cubic-inch AMC V-8 equipped with a multi-point fuel injection system and a stainless steel exhaust.
What are the unique features of this restored Jeep model?
The restored vehicle is fitted with a six-inch front suspension lift and a four-inch rear lift, making room for either 35-inch BFGoodrich all-terrain tires or 37-inch Goodyear mud-terrain tires. Inside, the cabin is modernized with new leather upholstery and an updated audio system that includes Bluetooth and SiriusXM satellite radio connectivity.
How many units of the original Jeep J-10 Honcho Sportside were produced?
According to Vigilante 4×4, only 1,264 units of the original Jeep J-10 Honcho Sportside were produced between 1980 and 1983.
What is the price of the restored 1981 Jeep J-10 Honcho Sportside?
The asking price for this meticulously restored vehicle is $145,000.
Does Vigilante 4×4 offer other types of restorations?
Yes, Vigilante 4×4 provides a variety of ‘restomod’ options for other Jeep models like the Gladiator and Cherokee. The starting prices for these projects can range up to $300,000.
Who owned Jeep when the original Honcho was produced?
The American Motors Corporation (AMC) owned Jeep at the time the original Honcho was produced.
What is the target audience for this restored vehicle?
The target audience for this vehicle includes aficionados of classic trucks, collectors, and those interested in high-end restomods or automotive history.
More about Vigilante 4×4 Restored 1981 Jeep J-10 Honcho Sportside
- Vigilante 4×4 Official Website
- JeepHeritage Division Information
- About AMC’s Ownership of Jeep
- Overview of Jeep J-Series
- The History of Jeep
- Understanding Automotive Restomods
- Classic Truck Market Insights
- BFGoodrich All-Terrain Tires
- Goodyear Mud-Terrain Tires
9 comments
kudos to JeepHeritage for taking on these projects. Keeping automotive history alive is important.
finally some1 who gets that these old beauties deserve more than a rusting fate. Absolutely stunning.
six-inch front lift and four-inch rear, plus the option for those mud-terrain tires? This ain’t just a showpiece, its ready for some serious off-roading too.
This is awesome! ive always been a fan of the J-10 Honcho. Good to see it gettin some love.
That 401-cubic-inch AMC V-8 is no joke. Would love to hear it roar.
145,000 USD might sound like a lot, but for collectors, it’s a worthwhile investment. These models only appreciate in value.
V-8 with multi-point fuel injection and leather interiors? Talk about blending old and new. Impressive work Vigilante!
Wow, 145k for a restored Jeep? That’s steep but man, it sounds like a dream ride. Kudos to Vigilante 4×4 for keeping the classics alive.
Its like stepping into a time machine, except this one has Bluetooth and SiriusXM. Love the attention to detail.