If you’re the type of person craving a vintage off-roader but don’t feel motivated to tackle a restoration, this 1968 Jeepster Commando deserves a close look. Recently liberated from a Californian collection where it spent years in a dry environment, it is a rust-free survivor that only needs new tires before it provides the buyer with motoring pleasure. Located in Ghent, New York, the seller has listed the Jeep here on Facebook Marketplace with an asking price of $18,995. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder T.J. for spotting this beauty.

Kaiser Jeep introduced the Jeepster Commando in 1966 as its answer to vehicles like the Land Cruiser and International Scout. It found ready acceptance in the market, selling in respectable numbers. The trend continued after AMC bought Jeep from Kaiser, providing a welcome capital injection into a company that was struggling financially. The history of this 1968 Jeepster Commando is unclear, although the seller indicates that it spent years in a private collection in California before falling into their hands. The environment was almost perfect because this classic is remarkably well-preserved. The paint is in good order, with no significant problems. The panels are straight, and the underside shots confirm that this Commando is as solid as the day it left the factory. The glass and trim are free from problems, and the only visible fault is the missing tailgate handle on the removable hardtop.

Commando buyers in 1968 could order their new toy with a four under the hood, but this Jeepster’s first owner selected the range-topping 225ci “Dauntless” V6. They teamed this with a three-speed manual transmission and a dual-range transfer case and, with 160hp and 235 ft/lbs of torque on tap, the Commando could tackle some impressively harsh terrain while failing to raise a sweat. The seller claims that this classic has a genuine 56,000 miles on the clock without mentioning verifying evidence. However, if it has spent years in hiding, the lack of activity makes the claim plausible. The only identified fault is the tires. These are very dry, and the seller recommends replacing them fairly soon. Otherwise, the vehicle runs and drives well, and will be ready for adventure once fitted with new rubber.

Kaiser Jeep took a utilitarian approach with the Commando’s interior, which was consistent with prevailing market trends. The steel surfaces sport the same paint shade as the exterior, while the upholstered surfaces are finished in hardy Black vinyl. The dash-mounted gauges and the carpet are the only visible additions. The carpet isn’t worn, but its color is inconsistent when compared to the paint and trim. Some potential buyers may wish to address this perceived shortcoming, although leaving it untouched would be a valid and understandable choice. However, the paint is crisp, the vinyl is wear-free, and this interior can be comfortably classed as acceptable for a survivor-grade vehicle.

The lack of rust in this 1968 Jeepster Commando will attract many potential buyers who don’t want to face hours of grinding and welding on a classic to achieve a structurally sound state. The seller’s use of the word “pristine” in their description is slightly wide of the mark, but it needs little to lift it to a higher level. The bulletproof nature of its mechanical components and the low odometer reading mean that it should provide years of reliable motoring pleasure. The seller’s price looks realistic, and although it has been on the market for a week, I won’t be surprised if someone hands over their cash for this classic fairly soon. Do you agree?