1949 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.67 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 car7 that he envisioned as a sports car for veterans of World War II.3The 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.312

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.114 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.