There is a wide array of 4WDs on the market but not all that many are designed specifically for backcountry travel. Instead, some (looking at you, Defender and G-Wagon) have transitioned away from their rugged heritage and now cater to the luxury market. The Jeep Wrangler is an exception to this rule and has changed little since its release in 1987. This purposeful vehicle, much like the Toyota Land Cruiser Troopy, is designed from the factory to reach remote locations and get you home. It’s no surprise that it’s popular for expedition builds, with recent examples on our forum including this 2016 Expedition Build, a 2017 Unlimited Sport, and a 2013 AEV Rubicon Unlimited. If you’d like a better idea of how this platform performs when the tarmac ends, check out Overland Journal’s Jeep Wrangler JLU Project and this 392 HEMI Wrangler on the Expedition Portal YouTube channel. Alternatively, listen to this in-depth podcast on Building the LJ and TJ Jeep Wrangler for Overlanding. Today’s low-mileage (27,900 miles) 2003 Wrangler has been meticulously serviced, showcases premium modifications, and includes full doors for winter and color-matched half-doors for summer adventures.
From the Seller:
“If you’re looking for a luxury SUV, this isn’t that. This is a go-anywhere, do-anything real Jeep. It rides like a Jeep, drives like a Jeep, and sounds like a Jeep.”
2003 Jeep Wrangler TJ
The Wrangler is fitted with a 4.0-liter straight-six motor that produces 190 horsepower, 235 pound-feet of torque, and returns a combined 16 mpg. A dependable engine is matched with mountain goat-like capability thanks to 4WD, a 2-speed transfer case, front and rear lockers, and more. The Wrangler is decidedly utilitarian inside but does showcase the following driver comforts:
- Air-conditioning
- MasterCraft bucket seats
- AMC sound system
Distinguishing Features:
- ARB front bumper with Warn winch
- American Racing ATX-Series Teflon rims with MasterCraft Courser MXT tires
- Fabtech 6-inch lift kit with long-arm linked suspension
- White Knuckle Off-Road rock sliders
- Warn Rock Crawler rear bumper with tire carrier
- ARB compressor
- JW Speaker Evo2 LED headlights and Rough Country light bar
This 2003 Jeep Wrangler TJ is listed for $22,500 and is currently located in Reno, Nevada. Check the full vehicle specifications via the original Expedition Portal forum post here.
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