The Isuzu Trooper is a full-size SUV that was produced by Isuzu (RIP passenger car division) starting in 1981 and ending in 2002 after the final run of the 2nd generation Trooper. The Trooper was marketed as like a million different things over the years, depending on the geographic market. Acura SLX, Chevrolet Trooper, Subaru Bighorn, SsangYong Korando Family, Honda Horizon, Opel Monterey, Vauxhall Monterey, Holden Jackaroo, Holden Monterey. That’s an insane amount of badge engineering! 

There were two generations of the Trooper. The first generation–which is what this example is–was produced starting in 1981 and ran for 10 years until 1991, and the second generation was produced between 1991 and 2002. It also had a significant refresh in 1998.

Both generations were fairly basic and boxy, but the first generation was often considered slightly underpowered, especially compared to some of the torque-laden options in competitors from Toyota and Nissan. Later in the life of the first generation of the Trooper, Isuzu offered it with the larger and more powerful V6 like the one for sale here. It was a truck built largely for on-road use, but with its part-time 4wd and a 6-cylinder  powerplant,  it could handle its own. It was even better when equipped with offroad modifications like this model for sale by Worldwide Vintage Autos. 

Over time, the Trooper evolved to add both amenities and luxuries, including optional air-conditioning, power windows. The model actually went slightly upmarket toward the end of its run, and less focused and fit for off-road use. It was even  available in two-wheel drive. Womp womp. No worries, this one spins all four.