1960s Jeep Super Wagoneer: Classic SUV With 485 Horsepower and a Manual Transmission

American automotive history is filled with vehicles that quietly slipped into the background. One of them is the Jeep Super Wagoneer. Introduced in the mid-1960s, this SUV largely flew under the radar, even though it was among the first to combine serious off-road capability with premium features.

Now, the team at Vigilante 4x4 has decided to revisit that overlooked chapter by building something truly special based on the rare model.

The builders retained the classic body but essentially breathed new life into it. The Wagoneer’s exterior remains instantly recognizable, yet its mechanical components are thoroughly modern — and in many ways exceed contemporary standards.

The star of the project sits under the hood. In place of the original engine is a modern 6.4-liter HEMI V8 producing 485 horsepower and 475 lb-ft of torque. But the real surprise is the transmission. In an era dominated by automatics, Vigilante fitted a six-speed manual gearbox from Tremec.

To ensure everything works seamlessly, the engineers completely reworked the drivetrain, adding a modern four-wheel-drive system and powerful brakes from Baer Brakes capable of reining in all that power.

Visually, the Jeep remains largely true to its roots. The body is finished in deep Flamboyant Blue with select chrome accents. However, its more aggressive character shows through in the increased ground clearance and upgraded suspension. Paired with knobby all-terrain tires, the vintage wagon becomes a genuinely capable off-road machine.

Inside, the build blends nostalgic touches with modern convenience. The seats are upholstered in blue leather to match the exterior, while the driver benefits from contemporary climate control and a Bluetooth-enabled audio system — all while enjoying the tactile precision of shifting gears manually.

According to Vigilante founder Daniel van Doveren, this Super Wagoneer project was designed to honor the model’s heritage without turning it into a static museum piece. The result is more than a restoration — it’s a reimagining of what a classic Jeep can be, where the raw power of a HEMI V8 meets the engaging feel of a proper manual transmission.