1948 Willys Jeepster

after World War II, Jeep trademark owner, Willys (originally pronounced "WILL-is"), Seeing a gap in their product lineup, Willys developed the Jeepster to crossover from their "utilitarian" trucks to the passenger automobile market. Willys-Overland lacked the machinery to form deep-drawn fenders or complicated shapes, so the vehicle had to use a simple and slab-sided design.[6][7] Industrial designer Brooks Stevens styled a line of postwar vehicles for Willys using a common platform that included the Jeep pickup and station wagon, as well as a sporty two-door open car[7] that he envisioned as a sports car for veterans of World War II.[3]The Willys-Overland Jeepster ("VJ" internally) was introduced in April 1948,[8] and produced through 1950.[9] Some leftover models were sold under the 1951 Model year.

The basic 1948 Jeepster included numerous deluxe features and interior fittings in addition to a high level of standard equipment that cost extra on other automobiles. These included, among many others, whitewall tires, hubcaps with bright trim rings, sun visors, deluxe steering wheel, wind wings, locking glovebox, cigar lighter, and continental tire with fabric cover.[11] The Jeepster had Willys' World War II-proven 134.2 cu in (2.2 L) straight-4 "Go Devil" engine, and plastic side curtains, but its $1,765 price was about the same as a Ford Super DeLuxe Club convertible with roll-down windows, fancier styling, and a V8 engine.[3][12]

The car was only offered with rear-wheel drive, thus limiting its appeal with other Jeep customers.[9] Its distinctive boxy styling and performance were praised by automotive journalists.[citation needed] However, the Jeepster did not catch on with the intended market segment. Sales were also limited by sparse advertising and an insufficient dealer network.[13]

The Jeepster s engine gave 63 hp (47 kW; 64 PS), which was coupled to a 3-speed manual transmission with standard overdrive.[1] The Planadyne single transverse leaf spring independent front suspension , entire drivetrain, front end, rear suspension, steering, and four-wheel drum brakes were from the Willys Station Wagon.[1][14] The flat-topped rear fenders were taken from the Jeep truck line.[8]

The 1949 Jeepster began production with a one-model/one-engine offering. 1949 Jeepster had standard Continental kit. The price was lowered to $1,495, with some previously standard features returning as extra-cost options.

Prices do not include additional fees and costs of closing, including government fees and taxes, any finance charges, any dealer documentation fees, any emissions testing fees or other fees.

*** Pricing includes incentives from captive finance sources and using outside financing or cash will not qualify for those incentives. ***

All prices, specifications and availability subject to change without notice.

For New vehicles MPG estimates on this website are EPA estimates; your actual mileage may vary.

For used vehicles, MPG estimates are EPA estimates for the vehicle when it was new. The EPA periodically modifies its MPG calculation methodology; all MPG estimates are based on the methodology in effect when the vehicles were new (please see the Fuel Economy portion of the EPAs website for details).