Vigilante 1979 Blacked-Out Jeep Wagoneer

Few American SUVs have aged as gracefully as the original Jeep Wagoneer, but Vigilante has given this 1979 example an entirely different personality. Known as the Blacked-Out, this extraordinary custom build combines the familiar proportions of Jeep's classic luxury 4x4 with an imposing monochromatic exterior, beautifully restored interior, and serious modern performance. Beneath its understated appearance lies a 485-horsepower HEMI V8, transforming a vintage family SUV into something considerably more formidable.

The exterior sets the tone with deep black paint, matte black trim, and smoked glass that give the Wagoneer a commanding presence without disturbing its iconic silhouette. Rather than eliminating the traditional woodgrain side panels, Vigilante reimagined them in subtle grey and black tones inspired by Yakisugi, the Japanese technique of preserving wood through controlled charring. The result retains one of the Wagoneer's most recognizable design features while giving it a darker, more contemporary character.

Inside, the atmosphere changes completely. Rich whiskey-colored leather and classic corduroy upholstery introduce warmth to the otherwise monochromatic design, creating an inviting contrast with the exterior. Vigilante has carefully integrated modern conveniences without compromising the cabin's vintage identity. Original-style window cranks conceal electric operation, while the redesigned instruments preserve their period appearance while displaying modern information. Even the steering wheel has been reconsidered to provide a more substantial, confident grip.

Under the hood sits a naturally aspirated 6.4-liter Mopar 392 HEMI V8 producing 485 horsepower, paired with a four-speed automatic transmission and four-wheel drive. The upgraded drivetrain incorporates an Atlas-II transfer case and heavy-duty Dana 44 front and Dana 60 rear axles. Modern suspension components, including Eibach springs and adjustable Fox Racing shocks, replace the original leaf-spring arrangement, while powerful Baer disc brakes provide stopping performance suited to the substantial increase in power. The result is a classic Wagoneer designed to feel considerably more precise and capable on modern roads.

The Blacked-Out takes a different approach from Vigilante's equally impressive Jeep Grand Wagoneer Restomod, which pairs its vintage body with an extraordinary 807-horsepower Hellcat Redeye engine. It also provides a dramatic contrast to the New Legend x Iron & Resin 1978 Jeep Wagoneer, another carefully reengineered classic with a more traditional exterior. The 1979 Blacked-Out example has already sold, but Vigilante offers similar custom commissions starting at $295,000. It's a compelling demonstration of how far a classic American SUV can be transformed without losing the character that made it desirable in the first place.

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