The CJ-5
The Jeep CJ-5 is probably one of the worst Jeeps to drive, because nobody over 5 feet tall can ride in it comfortably. None of the tubs were galvanized like the Wrangler, so solid rust-free body panels are almost nonexistent. The model 20 rear differential came with the dreaded two-piece axleshafts that break if you even think about venturing out in the dirt. Most CJ-5s leak oil from their Dana 300 transfer cases unless, of course, they’re out of oil. The 4.2L straight-six was a good, reliable engine unlike the underpowered 304 V-8 that came in some CJ-5s. Although very capable off road, the CJ-5’s short leaf-sprung wheelbase makes for white-knuckle driving at highway speeds. When you pair that with the interior room of a glove box, it’s not a Jeep we would ever want.
The Jeep CJ-5 is specifically what we’re picking on here, and not the CJ-7. Unlike the ’5, you can actually fit inside these without having to modify the seat frame. The ride isn’t too harsh even on bumpy roads thanks to the added wheelbase of the CJ-7. But the CJ-7’s later electrical system should also get an honorable mention here since it looks like it was put together at the last minute, overnight...in the dark!
The Bronco II
There’s no way we could write a story like this and leave out the absolute worst 4x4 of all time! It should have never been built in the first place since sequels are almost always horrible ideas. That’s right, we’re talking about the Ford Bronco II.
It was introduced in 1984 and had a production run that lasted until 1990. The early models came from the factory with an anemic 2.8L carbureted V-6. In 1986 the Bronco II came equipped with a 2.9L fuel-injected V-6 that pumped out 140 hp, but these engines were plagued by overheating issues which resulted in cracked cylinder heads. All but the later 1990 models came equipped with a Dana 28 twin-traction beam (TTB) front differential, which was unimpressive at best.
The later 1990 models came equipped with the more desirable Dana 35 TTB front differential, but all of them had a weak 7.5 inch rear. What really killed the Bronco II (besides sheer ugliness) was the fact that it didn’t have a removable top and the rear window didn’t roll down. It was obvious that it was destined to fail since everything about the Bronco II screamed cheap—especially the interior! The only way to increase the value of a Bronco II is by cutting off the roof and calling it a Ranger. And even then it’s still the worst 4x4 ever!
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The Bronco II is actually somewhat as capable as a stock Ranger off-road, but it suffers f
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This is one of the reasons the Bronco II is the absolute worst 4x4 ever. Push button 4x4 i
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The Dana 27 TTB is very similar to the Dana 35 from the later Ranger and Explorer, but is