What is the difference between 1977 cj 7 and 1985 cj 7?

Answer 1

The basic body is the same. However, there are many minor cosmetic differences and a few very significant design and mechanical differences. Mechanical / Design: Beginning in 1982, Jeep re-engineered the axles to address the negative publicity associated with Jeep rollover accidents. They widened the wheel track of the CJ-7 by a few inches on each side. As a result, if you look at a pre-1982 and post 1982 CJ-7 side by side from the front, you'll notice that on the 1982 and later models the tires extend right to the edge of the rubber fender flares. In 1977, some CJ-7's were sold without the rubber flares. After 1982, however, CJ-7's were available only with the flares because of this difference. In 1977, the CJ-7 was offered with your choice of a four cylinder, six cylinder, or 8 cylinder engine. After 1982, it was available only in four or six cylinders. Cosmetic: The 1977 CJ-7 had low back bucket seats while the 1985 CJ-7 had high back bucket seats. The exterior door handles on the hard top model in 1977 featured a silver handle that was twisted to open the door, similar to the soft top handle. The 1985 hard top model featured a "flipper" that was used on hard top Jeep Wranglers up until 2007. Beginning in 1984, CJ-7's equipped with hard tops and steel doors included a small wing window that opened. (What a stupid addition that was.) Generally speaking, the CJ-7's of 1982 and later are more stable on the road because of the wider track, and the seats are more comfortable. Otherwise, it's essentially the same vehicle.