Kyle MacLachlan Fondly Remembers His 1984 Jeep

Best known as Special Agent Dale Cooper in the hit show “Twin Peaks,” actor Kyle MacLachlan has carved out an impressive 35-year career. In addition to appearing in the original and rebooted version of “Twin Peaks,” MacLachlan has held notable roles in “Dune,” “Sex and the City,” and “Desperate Housewives,” amongst a long list of films and television shows. This fall he stars on the new CBS sitcom “Carol’s Second Act.”

But before he made it in Hollywood, he had to give up his precious Jeep just to get to Los Angeles.

What was your first car?

A 1984, gunmetal gray, CJ-7 Jeep.

How did you acquire it?

I bought it new in Seattle with money I made from my first film, Dune. It was my first major purchase as a young adult. It cost $10,500 new.

What did you love most about the car?

The more banged up it got, the better it looked! It was awesome to drive with the top off. I used to ride motorcycles and the jeep was as close as I could get to that feeling with four wheels and no helmet.

Was there anything you didn’t like about it?

I loved everything about it.

What is your favorite memory of the car?

It had a 5-speed manual transmission. I love a clutch. I added a roll cage, side mounts and re-bored the engine. Not the best idea!

What happened to it?

Because I’d beefed up the engine, it couldn’t pass the smog rating in LA! It sat for a long time, sadly, but I finally sold it recently to someone who restored it to its former glory. I have first rights if he ever sells. I secretly hope to own it again.

For more celebrity stories, visit AAA.com/MyFirstCar.