MY FIRST CANADIAN VEHICLE: JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE ZJ
I had the opportunity to move to Vancouver, Canada, for my VFX job. I was very excited to do so because of the beautiful nature that Canada and the US have to offer.
I was very sad when I sold my Suzuki SJ413 because I had many memories connected to it.
But memories stay in your head and it was time to consider my next rig. Given the much longer distances in Canada, I needed a bigger vehicle.
After doing a bit of research I settled for a 1999 Jeep Grand Cherokee (ZJ) 5.2l v8.
This first weekend after I bought my Suzuki SJ413. I could not believe I was driving it and I still remember the incredible joy and freedom I felt in being able to finally go explore.
When I had this car, I often went out with friends who also had 4x4s; I joined an off-road club, participated in some competitions and learned as much as possible about driving on any terrain.
4×4 friends having fun
Also, soon enough, I started getting into the rabbit hole of modifying it: suspension, transmission, engine, paint and pretty much everything else. This is when I learned how to work on cars, a skill that will prove invaluable in the future.
The SJ413 fully modified
I kept the Suzuki for 11 years and drove in many remote adventures in Europe, creating unforgettable memories.
When I decided to move to Canada I sadly sold the SJ. The new owner bought it to bring it to Morocco and explore Africa, which made me happy as that is what the little box was made for.
The last picture with my SJ413. After 11 years worth of roads, it was time to let her go.
