A Tribute to the “Straight Six”: Jeep’s Legendary 4.0L In-line Six Engine

Classic Jeeps like the Jeep Cherokee are some of the few older vehicles still in high demand today. A quick scan of used Cherokees will show that for a vehicle built in the 1990’s, these Jeeps are still worth a hefty chunk of change. This is for many reasons. First, its early popularity made these Jeeps cheap and easy to work on. Second, styling of the Cherokee has held up over time. Third, they’re safe and comfy vehicles perfect for household projects or first cars. But the final, and most important reason that these jeeps are so coveted, is the 4.0L in-line “straight six” AMC engine.

Chrysler’s 4.0L Straight Six Engine

The 4.0L AMC inline six is known as one of Chrysler’s best engines. Dating back to 1986, its torquey 190 hp engine would commonly chug along for upwards of 300,000 miles. Over the course of nearly 20 years this engine was refined and tweaked before being phased out in 2006. The inline six has powered Cherokees, Grand Cherokees, Wagoneers, Wranglers, and even Comanches. We think its best known for its time with the Cherokee, but it remains a major selling point no matter what it’s been dropped in.

Unfortunately, the AMC 4.0L inline six was replaced by the 3.8 OHV V6, which originated in Chrysler minivans. We think we’re not alone in saying that a minivan engine doesn’t belong in a Wrangler. The Inline six survived until 2006, and it will go down in history as one of, if not the most legendary workhorse engine Chrysler has ever made. In short, we just have one request of Chrysler executives. Please, bring this beast back. Also, for future engines, if it’s not broken don’t fix it.

Everyone Has a Story

Do you have your own experience with the inline six? We would love to hear about it on our Facebook or Twitter. How did this great engine impact you?

Also be sure to stop by our dealership if you’re interested in seeing some of the new powerful engines we have in stock. Although they don’t have the same reputation as the inline six yet, we think there are a few waiting to be revered. We hope to see you soon.