The Wagoneer is an iconic SUV produced by Jeep. First introduced in 1962, the Wagoneer helped establish the SUV segment and remained in production for an impressive 28 years until 1991. During its long production run, the Wagoneer saw several generations and upgrades.
Here we will focus on the original Wagoneer, Series 1, and its successor, Series 2. We’ll go over the key differences between these two classic SUVs. and compare their pros and cons.
| Features | Series 1 | Series 2 |
| Body Style | 4-door station wagon | 4-door station wagon |
| Layout | Body-on-frame | Body-on-frame |
| Drivetrain | RWD/4WD | RWD/4WD |
| Engines | 3.8L I6, 4.2L I6, 5.4L V8 | 3.8L I6, 4.2L I6, 6.6L V8 |
| Transmission | 3-speed auto | 3-speed auto |
| Passenger Capacity | Up to 7 | Up to 7 |
| Wheelbase | 106 in | 106 in |
| Length | 189 in | 189 in |
| Width | 70.6 in | 71.6 in |
| Luxury Features | Basic trim | Improved trim, more options |
The Wagoneer Series 1 debuted in 1962 as a 4×4 station wagon. It featured a rugged body-on-frame construction and was available with multiple engine choices including AMC’s 232 cu in I6 and 327 cu in V8. The Series 1 established Jeep’s reputation for off-road capability combined with passenger car comforts.
In 1966, the Wagoneer received its first significant update as the Series 2. The exterior was modernized with a squared-off design and improvements included a stronger frame, wider track, and upgraded interior. Under the hood, a new AMC 360 cu in V8 replaced the smaller 327 as the top engine option.
The Series 2 Wagoneer would remain largely unchanged until the next major redesign in 1972.
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The Series 1 Wagoneer had a classic 1960s station wagon design with gentle curves and round wheel arches. Woodgrain side panels were a signature styling feature. The Series 2 received an updated squared-off body with a more robust appearance. It retained the woodgrain sides helping it keep the Wagoneer’s distinctive look.
In terms of size, the Wagoneer Series 1 measured 70.6 inches wide and 189 inches long with a 106 inch wheelbase. The Series 2 expanded slightly to 71.6 inches wide but with the same 189 inch overall length and 106 inch wheelbase. Standing height for both generations was approximately 66 inches tall. So externally, the Series 1 and 2 Wagoneers were quite close in their dimensions.
Inside, the Wagoneer Series 1 had room for up to 7 passengers with available front and rear bench seats. Interior trim and features were more basic but emphasized comfort for family travel. The dashboard layout was simple and straightforward.
The Series 2 saw some nice interior upgrades. It offered an improved dashboard design with better gauges and ergonomics. Additional luxury options included air conditioning, AM/FM radio, power tailgate window, and tilt steering column adding more comfort and convenience.
Front seats remained a choice of bucket or bench configurations while rear passengers enjoyed increased legroom. Overall, the Wagoneer Series 2 had a more refined and passenger friendly cabin.
Under the hood, the early Wagoneer Series 1 came standard with AMC’s 3.8L/230 cu in OHV I6 engine producing 140 hp and 210 lb-ft of torque. Optional was the 4.2L/258 cu in I6 with 145 hp and 210 lb-ft. The top performing engine was AMC’s 5.4L/327 cu in OHV V8 making 250 hp and 340 lb-ft torque.
When the Series 2 arrived for 1966, it replaced the smaller 327 V8 with AMC’s new 6.6L/360 cu in 360 V8. In 2-barrel carburetor form, this 360 cu in V8 churned out 220 hp and 320 lb-ft torque. A 4-barrel version bumped power to 265 hp and 345 lb-ft. This muscular V8 gave the Wagoneer excellent performance for its size able to reach 60 mph in about 10 seconds.
Both generations came equipped with 3-speed automatic transmissions as standard. Part-time 4WD was also standard across all Wagoneer models. The Series 1 and 2 were closely matched for off-road prowess thanks to their rugged body-on-frame construction and solid rear axles with leaf springs. Respected 4WD systems gave them equally impressive trail busting skills.
Also Read: Is Jeep Wagoneer Series II Better Than Series III?
Wagoneer Series 1 Pros:
Wagoneer Series 1 Cons:
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Wagoneer Series 2 Pros:
Wagoneer Series 2 Cons:
The Series 1 was the original Wagoneer introduced in 1962. The Series 2 arrived in 1966 with updates including new exterior styling, larger 360 cu in V8 engine, and improved interior comfort and features.
The Wagoneer Series II debuted in 1966 and remained largely unchanged until the Series III arrived in 1972. The Series III brought an all-new body design, larger engines, and greater luxury along with modern emissions equipment. The Series II offered evolutionary enhancements over the Series I while the Series III represented a more radical redesign.
The Wagoneer evolved over several generations from 1962-1991 but the main differences are:
Series 1: original design, weaker engines, sparse features
Series 2: facelift, 360 V8, improved interior
Series 3: new body, luxury features, engines meet emissions standards
Later models: further modernization with amenities like power windows, upgraded chassis, and electronics
The original Wagoneer Series 1 was introduced in 1962 as Jeep’s first 4×4 station wagon model. It launched the Wagoneer nameplate and began the era of family-oriented SUVs. focused on passenger comfort.
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The Wagoneer Series 1 represents the original SUV in its most basic form. For shoppers looking for classic styling, proven off-road grit, and simple ruggedness, the Series 1 is a good choice. Budget buyers will also like its relatively low pricing.
However, most buyers will appreciate the refinements of the Series 2. It retains the Wagoneer’s identity while adding more power, better comfort, and some modern amenities. The Series 2 is the better all-around daily driver. But it still maintains the traditional truck-based capabilities that give the Wagoneer its go-anywhere credibility.
Either model is an icon of off-road driving and represents the Wagoneer legacy well. The Series 2 does gain advantages in features and liveability that will appeal to most buyers. But the Series 1 has undeniable retro charm at an affordable price point. Choose based on your priorities and you’ll end up with a great classic SUV.
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