Interesting article, and that's a great looking YJ in the article, but I dont agree with this line, and this is why:
So why haven't YJ's taken off in value? It's simply because of its square headlights. Ask any Jeep enthusiast, and they will all criticize the YJ for its non-conventional headlights.
I think that might have been the case eight to 10 years ago, (you could get them dirt cheap). But, I've seen prices increase considerably on these rigs over the last four or five years, and especially the last two years with the Covid shortages impact on the used vehicle market.
Just take a look at what they're currently selling them for on Craigslist & FB marketplace, (depending on mileage & condition, they're going for anywhere from $7000 to $20,000 dollars, (even more on Bring-A-Trailer), the prices now are starting to border on ridiculous.
My YJ is in nice condition, its tastefully had mods and accessories added over the years. It gets lots of attention, interest and conversations just about everywhere I take it. Even now some from the JK &JL crowd, hell, they even wave at me. Three times last year I've had complete strangers ask me if its for sale.
So I think attitudes have changed, or are starting to change on the squares. I also think one of the reasons interest is growing on the YJ's is because they dont look like every other Wrangler on the road, and people tend to like to be different, especially with fewer & fewer on the road.