Jeep history · 1986–1992
Jeep Comanche history: the 1986–1992 MJ pickup
By CarWhere Research · Updated
The Jeep Comanche (MJ) was a compact pickup derived from the Cherokee XJ, built in Toledo for the 1986–1992 model years. 190,446 were produced, peaking at 43,718 in 1988. It offered six- and seven-foot beds, the 4.0-liter inline-six from 1987 and a Metric Ton payload package; Chrysler ended production on June 12, 1992.
Jeep Comanche history
American Motors built the Comanche on the Cherokee XJ's front structure with a separate pickup bed, giving Jeep a modern compact truck to replace the aging J-series. The long-bed model came first for 1986, and a six-foot short bed followed for 1987.
The 4.0-liter inline-six that arrived in 1987 made the Comanche quick for its class, and trims ran from the base SporTruck to Pioneer, Chief, Laredo and the sporty Eliminator. A Metric Ton package for long-bed trucks raised payload to 2,205 pounds.
Sales fell after Chrysler bought AMC in 1987, as Chrysler positioned Jeep as its SUV brand and Dodge as its truck brand. Chrysler decided to end Comanche production on June 12, 1992, after just 952 trucks that calendar year.[1]
Years and production numbers
| Calendar year | Production (units) |
|---|---|
| 1985 | 29,245 |
| 1986 | 33,386 |
| 1987 | 43,070 |
| 1988 | 43,718 |
| 1989 | 25,311 |
| 1990 | 9,576 |
| 1991 | 5,188 |
| 1992 | 952 |
| Total | 190,446 |
Generations and key variants
| Engine | Years | Output |
|---|---|---|
| 2.5L AMC 150 inline-four | 1986–1992 | 117 hp (1986); 121 hp (1987–90); 130 hp (1991–92) |
| 2.8L GM V6 | 1986 | 115 hp |
| 2.1L Renault turbodiesel inline-four | 1986–1987 | 85 hp |
| 4.0L AMC 242 inline-six | 1987–1992 | 173 hp (1987); 177 hp (1988–90); 190 hp (1991–92) |
Engine and drivetrain facts
- The seven-foot bed rides on a 119.9-inch wheelbase and arrived first, for 1986; the six-foot bed uses a 113-inch wheelbase and arrived for 1987.
- The Metric Ton package for long-bed trucks added a Dana 44 rear axle, heavier springs, wheels and tires, raising payload from about 1,400 to 2,205 pounds.
Sources:[1]
What changed over the years
- 1986Long-bed Comanche launches in Custom, X and XLS trims.
- 1987Short bed and the 4.0L inline-six arrive; Pioneer, Chief and Laredo trims.
- 1988Production peaks at 43,718; Eliminator trim debuts.
- 19914.0L High Output six (190 hp) and a 130 hp four.
- 1992Chrysler ends production on June 12 after 952 trucks that year.
Sources:[1]
What to check before you buy one
- Confirm the bed length and wheelbase (six-foot on 113 inches, seven-foot on 119.9 inches) match the listing and the VIN.
- Check the cab corners, floors and frame rails under the cab for rust; the front structure is shared with the unibody XJ.
- Ask for proof before paying extra for an Eliminator or a Metric Ton truck — a Metric Ton should have the Dana 44 rear axle.
- Check the 4.0's cooling system and look for oil leaks, as on any high-mileage AMC six.
- Use the VIN to confirm the factory engine, transmission and package equipment where data exists.
How to verify a Jeep Comanche's factory options
Every Comanche has a 17-character VIN. CarWhere checks it for licensed factory build data and, when it exists, lists the equipment the truck was built with — engine, transmission, axle and option packages. Coverage for 1980s and early-1990s VINs is thinner than for recent vehicles.
Jeep build sheet by VIN
CarWhere checks a specific VIN for licensed factory build data and, when it exists, lists the equipment the vehicle was built with — engine, transmission, axle ratio, paint, interior and option packages — in plain English. Coverage varies by VIN and model year and is strongest for recent vehicles.
Free availability check first · $9.99 one-time only if detailed build data exists for the VIN · no subscription
Frequently asked questions
What years was the Jeep Comanche made?
The 1986 through 1992 model years, built in Toledo, Ohio, from 1985 to June 1992.
How many Jeep Comanches were made?
190,446, with the peak in calendar 1988 at 43,718 trucks.
Why was the Jeep Comanche discontinued?
Low sales, and Chrysler's plan to position Jeep for SUVs and Dodge for trucks after it bought AMC. Chrysler ended production on June 12, 1992.
What engine is in a Jeep Comanche?
Most have AMC's 2.5-liter four or 4.0-liter inline-six; a GM 2.8 V6 (1986) and a Renault 2.1 turbodiesel (1986–87) were also offered.
Is the Comanche based on the Cherokee XJ?
Yes. It shares the XJ's front structure, engines and drivetrains, with a separate pickup bed.
Related histories
More research
Sources
Production figures and dates come from Stellantis (Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and Ram) press materials and brand sites, reputable automotive press and auction houses wherever available; auction figures are public results from the auction house. References marked secondary are encyclopedic or enthusiast sources used only where a primary figure was not available. Market medians are CarWhere's own analysis of live US dealer listings from licensed vehicle-data providers.
- Jeep Comanche — Wikipedia (secondary reference)
- 49 CFR Part 565 — Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) requirements — eCFR (U.S. Government)
Independent reference compiled by CarWhere Research — not affiliated with or endorsed by Stellantis. Ram, Jeep, Dodge, Plymouth, Chrysler, HEMI, Hellcat, SRT, Mopar, Wrangler, Cherokee, Gladiator and the other model names are trademarks of their owners.