Here’s something you don’t see every day—a 1948 Willys Jeepster, tucked away for years and now up for grabs. This two-door convertible is listed on Facebook Marketplace and reportedly shows 78,000 miles on the odometer, though the seller notes that the speedometer isn’t currently working. Still, it’s a mostly original example of Willys’ postwar attempt to blend sporty looks with utilitarian roots. You can see it here on Facebook Marketplace.
Willys built the Jeepster between 1948 and 1950, hoping to attract buyers who liked the rugged Jeep aesthetic but wanted something a little more civilized for the street. With rear-wheel drive, stylish chrome trim, and car-like appointments, the Jeepster was aimed at a unique niche in the market. Today, it holds a special place among early American convertibles and orphan brand collectors.
This example is said to be “pretty much all original,” which is always a promising phrase. It still wears its convertible top and retains its 3-speed column-shifted manual transmission. The seller doesn’t specify if the engine is the original “Go Devil” inline-four or one of the optional six-cylinders offered in later years, but the car was reportedly running a year and a half ago. A new battery and some repairs were done at that time, though the current battery will need to be recharged or replaced to get it going again.
The Jeepster sat in a garage for a number of years before changing hands, and it sounds like it’s been protected during that time. The seller mentions it was covered and well maintained, which might help explain the overall condition. New tires have also been installed, making it easier for the next owner to safely transport or test it.
While the listing admits that Facebook doesn’t offer the correct model year or trim options (hence the “Cherokee SE” label), it’s clearly an early Jeepster with an appealing, unrestored vibe. For fans of vintage convertibles or Willys history, this could be a rare opportunity to own a fun, parade-worthy classic without breaking the bank.
Would you leave this survivor as-is and enjoy its patina, or would you give it a full frame-off restoration?
Sold already! Not surprised, seemed like a good deal with a $5500 asking price.
Nice original cruiser. I have a soft spot for these. Wish I’d known it was for sale, it would be on it’s way to my house.
If money can’t buy happiness, explain beer, tacos, and Jeeps!
A great summer car for driving on back roads. Paved roads, that is, if the 4, keep it under 50 mph and you will be OK
I have always liked these since the first one I saw. It belonged to one of our physical education teachers in Jr. High. I particularly like the lower to the ground 2 wheel drive .model. Just a nice cruising around convertible!
Not necessarily paved roads but might want to avoid mud puddles of any size. I like this one too but better for slow country lanes.
I will never understand why someone buys new tires before he bothers to jump start it.It probably worked in the buyers favor,buying it not running,then driving it home.It happened to me a couple times,and I was thrilled 😂.
Wow! That didn’t stay on market for 24 hours and it is no surprise. The finish can, if you wish can be buffed out! Being adicted to Jeeps I wonder if this vintage also has a drinking problem like my 95. Could explain the issue as genetic.
In profile, this resembles the VW Thing.
I have a 1949 that used to be that color but is a gold color now and not two toned anymore.
In the early 60’s two of my older brothers bought one to use on their paper route. As time went on they found someone to put an Olds V8, a Chevy 4 speed transmission and a Cadillac rear diff. I was only about 8 or 9 years old at the time, but it turned me into a real “car” guy.
My cousin near Summersville,W.Va had a yellow one like this .Only it had a balanced -blueprinted 327 Chevrolet motor in it.This was back in the late70–mid 80,s . With a auto matic transmission in it. It would do wheelie. Great looking little vehicle. Come to think of it. I know where 2 are. The uy passed away a couple of years back. I,try and see if his wife wants to sale hem.