Modern postal vehicles have a way of making the old-timers look like ancient dwarfs, but if you’re as old as me, you probably recall a Jeep very similar to this 1979 AM General DJ-5G here on Craigslist delivering the mail in your neighborhood, and perhaps racing outside to see what goodies the driver may have placed in the box. While this one’s not as up-to-date as what the USPS currently uses, it was well-designed for the period specifically to perform postal duties, but now seems like a fun relic to have around in an automobile collection. It’s in Westcliffe, Colorado, and the asking price of $4,750 doesn’t sound unreasonable. Rocco B., thanks for spotting this one and sending us the tip!
The DJ-5G was a one-year-only model and featured an Audi-sourced 2.0-liter inline-4 engine, which was also found in the Porsche 924. Sadly, no photos are supplied from under the hood, but it sounds like quite a bit of maintenance has been performed recently. The seller reports that new plugs, belts, and hoses have been installed, and that the radiator has been rebuilt. The carburetor is also listed as new, but it’s likely time to replace the oil pan gasket, as a leak has developed there. Fortunately, the automatic transmission has been overhauled, and it’s said to have come with a 100k-mile warranty.
Unless they grew up overseas, the next owner will likely have to re-learn how to drive, as these were designed with the steering column placement on the right side. Instead of a second front seat, a package tray was utilized instead, with even more cargo room in the back. Unless you get creative, this one’s truly a one-occupant vehicle, but that’s how the USPS wanted things for efficiency. This Jeep is said to have already traveled over 100k miles, but the interior still looks quite good for its age and the amount of use it’s seen.
Few specific details are provided regarding the exterior, but the sheet metal appears straight and solid, and the paint also remains in excellent condition. This seems like a lot of fun for less than five grand, and while it may not get you to Cars N’ Coffee as quickly as some of the other participants, you’ll almost certainly have zero competition to contend with in the parking lot. Any thoughts to share about this 1979 AM General Postal Jeep?
Wild find Rocco 👍
I remember my first day driving one of these (different year) for USPS. I got back and told them it needed brake work because it wouldn’t stop. Coworker jumped in a drove around the parking lot. Said, no it’s fine. It doesn’t stop because its a postal jeep
Nice little ride, would be a fun vehicle to have