Jeep Wagoneer 1979
"The Blacked-Out"

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This 1979 Jeep Wagoneer represents a bold and sophisticated interpretation of classic luxury. Built upon a pristine donor body sourced from Texas, this project aimed to create a "Blacked-Out" aesthetic that is as discreet as it is menacing, while preserving the timeless elegance of the SJ lineage.

The inspiration was drawn from a previous black Cherokee project, but adapted here for the Wagoneer to achieve a result with striking visual depth. Our team embraced the challenge: to transform a family icon into a masterpiece of "street presence," blending the aggression of a modern muscle car with the refinement of a vintage luxury SUV.

Key points of the build:

• "Blacked-Out" Exterior Aesthetic: The exterior is defined by absolute discretion. The deep black paint is complemented by chrome treated in matte black to create a subtle yet powerful contrast. The iconic side woodgrain—typically thinner and more elegant on the 1979 vintage—has been reworked in grey and black tones to seamlessly blend into the bodywork. "Architectural" smoked glass completes this monochrome and mysterious look.

• Interior Contrast & Noble Materials: To counterbalance the dark exterior, the cabin opens up to immediate visual richness thanks to a "Whiskey" colored interior. This classic black and brown combination pairs luxurious supple leather with the Wagoneer’s signature corduroy. It is a "delicious" mix of textures that brings a warm, pop flair to the ensemble.

• Invisible Tech Integration: True to the VIGILANTE philosophy, modern technology is hidden beneath period-correct design. The window cranks look original but operate electric windows, and the dashboard gauges retain their vintage appearance while providing precise modern data. The steering wheel offers an ideal grip, far removed from the excessive thinness of the original models.

• Performance & Modern Drivability: Under the hood, the MOPAR 392 HEMI SRT-8 engine radically transforms the driving experience. unlike the vague steering of the original, this Wagoneer offers an immediate and "tight" response. Capable of effortlessly cruising at high speeds amidst modern traffic, it also features overpowering braking capabilities to ensure absolute safety and control.

• Artistic Inspiration – The Spirit of Yakisugi: The distinctive grey and black side paneling draws its inspiration from Shou Sugi Ban (or Yakisugi), the ancestral Japanese technique of wood preservation. By charring the surface of the wood—traditionally cedar—this process creates a deep, carbonized finish that enhances durability while revealing a unique, textured beauty. We channeled this philosophy to reimagine the classic woodgrain: rather than the traditional warm tones, we opted for a "charred" aesthetic that adds profound visual depth and modern resilience, perfectly complementing the vehicle's menacing monochrome profile.