Is anyone going to pay $17,000 for a 1998 Ssangyong Korando with a Florida title?

      European Car Importers via eBay

      If you excel in debate, the second-generation Ssangyong Korando could help you gain access to various brand-specific events. With its authentic Jeep heritage, you might find yourself able to join the annual Easter Jeep Safari. Additionally, it has connections to Mercedes-Benz, which means you could park it alongside a G-Wagen at a German-exclusive event. While the Korando wasn't originally sold in the United States, a 1998 model has surprisingly appeared for sale in Tampa, Florida.

      Ssangyong's beginnings are tied to a South Korean firm named Shinjin Motors, which produced Jeep CJs for the domestic market through a collaboration with AMC. The design evolved over the years, and the first Korando, launched in 1983, resembled a blend of a CJ-7 and a Suzuki Samurai.

      The first-generation Korando was manufactured until 1996, with its successor introduced that same year featuring a design that could be described as somewhat Jeep-like. It retained round headlights and a tall hood, added plastic bumpers, and was available with a fixed roof or a removable top. Its body-on-frame construction contributed to its sturdiness. Ssangyong marketed the Korando (which translates to "Korea can do") in some European markets as an economical alternative to Japanese SUVs.

      Fast forward to 2025, and the second-generation Korando is still regarded as an affordable option compared to Japanese SUVs. It offers a significant improvement in comfort over a Lada Niva, is roomier than a Fiat Panda 4x4, and is likely more reliable than a Renault Kangoo 4x4.

      In Europe, this vehicle holds that reputation; however, in the U.S., it's a relatively unknown off-roader that most people haven't encountered, which is why the listing on eBay piques our interest. According to the auction description, this Korando has no rust, having lived its entire life in “a dry Mediterranean climate.” It likely originated from Spain or Italy, as buyers from both countries tend to appreciate quirky SUVs more than French motorists. The SUV appears well-kept for its 27 years, although the gallery lacks underbody photographs, and the Mediterranean climate may not be as car-friendly as one might think. While there’s no road salt, the air carries a lot of salt, which can lead to unexpected rust issues. The advertisement also claims that the Korando was always stored in a garage, a common assertion that is difficult to verify.

      Regardless of storage conditions, this Korando seems intact and hasn’t undergone significant modifications. The only notable changes we identify are a snorkel, window tint, and aftermarket wheels. The vehicle features cloth upholstery, wood-look interior trim, power windows, and a cassette player. The odometer reads approximately 116,800 kilometers, translating to around 72,600 miles, which, if accurate, is quite low for a vehicle of its age.

      Power is provided by a 2.3-liter turbodiesel four-cylinder engine with an interesting background. In the 1990s, Mercedes-Benz licensed Ssangyong to modify and produce four- and five-cylinder diesel engines for the Musso and Korando. The four-cylinder, known as the OM661, also powered the Sprinter but wasn't used in any Mercedes passenger cars. In this application, it generates around 101 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque, driving either the rear wheels or all four via a five-speed manual transmission and a two-speed transfer case.

      While it might be misleading to say the Korando is powered by Mercedes, it does utilize an engine derived from their designs. Ssangyong takes pride in this connection; a “powered by Mercedes-Benz” sticker can be found on the rear window, and a “licensed by Mercedes-Benz AG” sticker appears on the Ssangyong-branded valve cover. The phrase “licensed by Mercedes-Benz AG” is also displayed on a metal plate affixed to the firewall, just in case it was missed initially.

      The seller, a dealership named European Car Importers, is asking $17,000 for the Korando. The listing claims the SUV recently underwent servicing (notably receiving a new clutch) and will come with a Florida title. As it is over 25 years old, registering it in another state should be relatively straightforward, though keep in mind that what is acceptable in Florida may not apply in states like California. Assessing the price is challenging; for $17,000, you could acquire a JK-generation Wrangler and still have funds for modifications. Conversely, where else can you find a comparatively clean Korando already titled in the U.S.? Likely nowhere, and you would need to import one yourself.

      If you’re considering it, you’re not alone—80 people are currently watching the listing. You have approximately six days to think it over.

      The Modern-Day Korando

      Production of the second-generation Kor