15 Forgotten SUVs From the 80s and 90s Worth Saving
The SUVs of the 80s and 90s had a style and toughness that newer models can’t quite match. Many were boxy, practical, and built for real adventures long before the SUV became a family car. Some of these models have faded from memory, but they still hold plenty of charm for collectors and fans of vintage rides. Here are a few forgotten SUVs from that era that deserve a second look and a spot in your garage.
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Isuzu Trooper
The Isuzu Trooper was a boxy, rugged SUV built for real off-road use, with high ground clearance and a no-nonsense interior. It was practical and dependable, earning a loyal following among adventurers and rural drivers. Though it lacked the polish of its Japanese rivals, it made up for it with durability and honest utility. Its simple design makes it easy to repair and restore, which is why collectors are starting to notice it again.
In the 80s and 90s, the Trooper was a go-anywhere workhorse that could handle mountain trails or long family road trips. Many still survive in barns or driveways, waiting for a second life. Its upright shape and solid axles remind enthusiasts of an era when SUVs were built for grit, not luxury. Restoring one today gives you a dependable vintage ride that feels refreshingly mechanical.
Suzuki Samurai
Small but spirited, the Suzuki Samurai earned a reputation for being fun and capable far beyond its size. It had a lightweight frame, a simple four-wheel-drive system, and a cheerful design that appealed to young drivers. While some criticized its stability at high speeds, off-road fans knew how much it could do on rough terrain. Its boxy charm and simplicity make it an affordable entry into vintage SUV collecting.
Samurais are now loved by enthusiasts who appreciate vehicles that offer a hands-on driving feel. Many still find them in backyards or small-town garages, ready to be restored. Their small size means they fit easily in modern garages, and their fuel economy still beats many current 4x4s. For collectors, the Samurai is a reminder that adventure doesn’t always need a full-size truck.
Mitsubishi Montero / Pajero
The Mitsubishi Montero, known as the Pajero in many markets, was once a serious off-roader with rally-winning credentials. It combined Japanese engineering with strong off-road hardware, including locking differentials and body-on-frame construction. The Montero was reliable and surprisingly comfortable, making it popular for both trail and highway driving. Many collectors view it as one of the most underrated SUVs of its time.
Today, Monteros are gaining new respect from fans of classic overlanding vehicles. Their angular design and solid build stand out among the rounded SUVs of later years. Well-maintained models can still handle long-distance adventures with ease. Restoring one brings back a piece of 90s expedition history that deserves more attention.
Daihatsu Rocky
The Daihatsu Rocky was small, square, and tougher than it looked. Designed for tight trails and mountain roads, it offered impressive off-road ability despite its compact size. Its interior was basic but functional, with just enough comfort for short trips or weekend adventures. Because few were sold in the U.S., finding one today feels like uncovering a hidden gem.
Collectors are rediscovering the Rocky for its rarity and rugged simplicity. It’s easy to work on, with reliable parts that last longer than expected. Its upright shape and short wheelbase give it a classic look that never goes out of style. For drivers who appreciate old-school mechanics, the Rocky feels refreshingly direct and honest.
Geo Tracker
The Geo Tracker brought affordable fun to the SUV market in the late 80s and 90s. Built with Suzuki engineering, it was small, nimble, and surprisingly capable on trails. Many were sold as cheerful convertibles, giving them a playful summer vibe that appealed to young buyers. The Tracker may not have had fancy features, but it was reliable and easy to maintain.
Today, the Geo Tracker is gaining retro appeal as a reminder of a simpler automotive era. Its bright paint colors, removable tops, and light steering make it fun for weekend drives. Collectors love it because it’s cheap to restore and still turns heads at car meets. With the right care, it’s a quirky classic that’s both nostalgic and useful.
Chevrolet S-10 Blazer (First Generation)
The first-generation Chevrolet S-10 Blazer was one of the pioneers of compact American SUVs. It shared its platform with the S-10 pickup, giving it a tough chassis and solid towing ability. The design was boxy and straightforward, and it offered both two-door and four-door options. Families appreciated its balance of utility and comfort at an affordable price.
These days, the S-10 Blazer is a favorite for collectors who love early SUV styling. It represents the transition between rugged off-roaders and more refined daily drivers. With spare parts still available, restoring one is manageable for hobbyists. It’s a nostalgic nod to a time when SUVs were both practical and personal.
GMC Jimmy (Two-Door Model)
The two-door GMC Jimmy was the Blazer’s sibling, sharing its size and rugged character. It was stylish for its day, with bold trim and practical powertrains that could handle rough conditions. Though smaller than later SUVs, it delivered the toughness drivers expected from GMC. Many families used them for camping trips and small-town errands alike.
Collectors like the Jimmy for its blend of classic looks and mechanical simplicity. It feels solid yet compact, a mix that’s harder to find in modern SUVs. Restored models draw attention for their vintage design and nostalgic feel. With the right upkeep, a Jimmy can still handle dirt roads and open highways with ease.
Ford Bronco II
Before the full-size Bronco made headlines again, the Bronco II held the spotlight for compact SUV lovers. Based on the Ranger pickup, it had real off-road ability and a square, muscular style. Its size made it easier to park and drive than its larger counterpart. Despite safety controversies, it remains a symbol of 80s adventure.
Today, the Bronco II has gained a small but devoted following. Collectors value its place in Ford’s SUV history and its simple, durable design. Many are restoring them to pair with modern Broncos for a complete generational display. A well-kept Bronco II captures the spirit of early SUV exploration in a smaller, friendlier package.
Dodge Raider
The Dodge Raider was actually a rebadged Mitsubishi Montero, offering the same toughness in a more obscure form. Few were sold, which makes surviving models quite rare. It had boxy lines, a sturdy frame, and plenty of off-road potential for its size. The Raider gave Dodge fans a taste of Japanese reliability during a time of change for American automakers.
Collectors now see the Raider as an affordable way to own a unique SUV with real off-road heritage. Its small production numbers add to its appeal for enthusiasts who want something different. With shared parts from the Montero, it’s surprisingly easy to maintain. Finding one in good condition feels like unearthing a lost badge from the late 80s.
Toyota 4Runner (First Generation)
The first-generation Toyota 4Runner was a pickup-based SUV built to last decades. It came with a removable rear roof section, making it half truck, half convertible. Known for reliability, it became a favorite among off-roaders and outdoor families. Its simple mechanics and solid frame helped it earn legendary status worldwide.
Vintage 4Runners are now prized for their durability and timeless look. Collectors appreciate how easily they can be modified or restored. Many still run strong with minimal maintenance, a testament to Toyota’s engineering. Whether on trails or at car shows, the first-gen 4Runner still turns heads for all the right reasons.
Nissan Pathfinder (First Generation)
The original Nissan Pathfinder blended sporty design with genuine off-road ability. It shared parts with Nissan’s hardbody trucks, giving it real toughness and reliability. Its clean lines and practical interior made it a hit among adventurous families. Even after decades, it remains one of the most durable SUVs from its era.
Collectors are bringing these Pathfinders back to life for their rugged charm and dependability. They’re easy to modify for camping or trail use, and parts remain widely available. Restored examples show how balanced the Pathfinder was between comfort and capability. For vintage SUV fans, it’s a classic worth keeping on the road.
Mazda Navajo
The Mazda Navajo was Mazda’s short-lived version of the Ford Explorer, aimed at the growing SUV market. It had the same structure and powertrain but came with a cleaner design and a quieter ride. Though it didn’t sell in large numbers, it offered a more refined feel compared to some rivals. Its rarity today makes it a surprising find for collectors.
The Navajo’s connection to the Explorer gives it strong mechanical reliability and easy access to parts. Its subtle differences make it an interesting conversation piece among enthusiasts. Many appreciate it as a symbol of Mazda’s brief foray into the SUV world. Restoring one provides a rare glimpse into a unique chapter of 90s automotive history.
Jeep Cherokee (XJ)
The Jeep Cherokee XJ redefined what an SUV could be, combining toughness with everyday comfort. It had a unibody design that made it lighter yet capable of serious off-roading. Its boxy style became iconic, influencing SUV design for years to come. Many were used hard, but their engines and drivetrains proved remarkably long-lasting.
Today, the Cherokee XJ is one of the most popular classic SUVs to restore. Enthusiasts love its simplicity, durability, and strong aftermarket support. Well-preserved models are climbing in value, especially those with the inline-six engine. For many collectors, the XJ represents the golden age of practical, adventure-ready SUVs.
Kia Sportage (First Generation, Late 1990s)
The first-generation Kia Sportage marked Kia’s entry into the global SUV scene. It was compact, affordable, and powered by Mazda-supplied engines that gave it solid reliability. While early models were basic, they offered good handling and a friendly design. Over time, it earned a reputation for being surprisingly tough for its size.
Collectors look at the early Sportage as a fun underdog from the late 90s. Its mix of Korean design and Japanese engineering gives it an interesting heritage. Restoring one is inexpensive and rewarding for anyone interested in 90s nostalgia. With care, it becomes a charming reminder of how global collaboration shaped modern SUVs.
Land Rover Discovery Series I
The Land Rover Discovery Series I blended British style with true off-road performance. Introduced in the late 80s, it came with permanent four-wheel drive and a practical yet elegant interior. Its tall seating position and wide windows offered great visibility, making it perfect for adventure travel. Though maintenance can be demanding, the driving experience is unmatched.
Collectors adore the Discovery for its character and classic charm. It represents the balance between luxury and ruggedness that defined Land Rover’s identity. Many owners enjoy restoring them for weekend trips and vintage rallies. When kept in good shape, the Discovery still delivers that timeless feeling of freedom and exploration.
This article originally appeared on Avocadu.