The fullsized SUV segment is perhaps the most difficult area to define the best buy in used 4x4s. Largely because of their impressive production numbers in the early '80s and '90s, these vehicles are both readily available and surprisingly inexpensive for what you get. They usually had V-8 power and enough space to take along the family. We like that they often came with similar architecture to the fullsize pickups of the era, making it a breeze to swap in beefy axles and drivetrain components.
1st Place: '73-'91 Chevrolet K-5 Blazer
Price range: $250 to $5,500
The Skinny: We love K-5 Blazers because they came as full convertibles through 1975. The fiberglass hardtops tended to crack because of body flex, but that shouldn't be a deal-breaker. The pre-'80 versions had Dana 44 front axles and a 12-bolt rear, and after 1980 most K-5s got an overdrive transmission and 10-bolt axles front and rear, although we've seen a few variances from this.
The Hot Setup: If you can find one, the '91 is probably the best K-5 to own. It came with a fuel-injected 350 V-8 and improved driver visibility, thanks to a slanted front clip. Swap in a set of 60s, maybe a doubler 203/205 transfer case, and you'll have a very potent package for the dirt.
Runner-up: '80-'96 Ford Bronco
Price range: $500 to $5,000
The Skinny: When it comes to building a do-all trail rig, many will argue that Ford's fullsize Bronco is the cat's meow. We like them because they're big enough to haul plenty of gear, yet nimble enough to park at the local shopping mall. (It's also worth mentioning that past editors of Four Wheeler crowned the '80 variant Four Wheeler of the Year.) Two nice things about these particular rigs are that they're abundant and inexpensive. Plus, a plethora of options exist in the aftermarket for them. The most sought-after versions are likely the '90-'96 models because they came with the E4OD overdrive transmission; however, the earlier '80-'84 variants and even some '85s were equipped with the much-favored Ford 9-inch rear axle.
Some things to keep in mind when looking for a used Bronco are: (1) Stay away from the '80 model if you plan to install a suspension lift. Unfortunately, the '80 frame has several holes in it from the factory that make installing some lift kits extremely difficult; (2) Stay away from '87 trucks because they use a unique 1-piece front-wheel hub assembly that can be costly to replace. (3) Avoid the AOD transmission found behind early EFI 5.0L V-8s. Also, '85 was the first year for EFI on the Bronco.
The Hot Setup: Get a '95 or '96 truck with the 351 Windsor V-8 and swap in the earlier 9-inch rear axle. To do this you will need a vehicle-speed-sensor relocation kit (available from California Pre Fun, 909/845-8820). Add a flexy suspension, maybe a bumper and winch, and you'll be out enjoying the trail in no time.