With the long-awaited return to peacetime, Willys based its initial 1948 civilian automobile production efforts on a series of Jeep-based vehicles. This open-air, two-door 1949 Jeepster Phaeton was designed by fast-rising industrial designer Brooks Stevens during the war and shared its chassis with the concurrent Jeep station wagon. Even with an unmistakable Jeep-derived frontal motif, styling was quite sporty, with such up-to-date stylistic cues as rakish cut-down doors inspired by the little sports roadsters coming out of the UK after the war.
Despite its winning attributes, the Jeepster was a surprisingly slow seller for Willys, with the initial 1948 models the most successful, due in part to growing competition for sales in the slowing postwar "seller's market" for new automobiles. Following discontinuation in 1951, the Jeepster Phaeton's basic essence would return in the mid-1960s with the Jeepster Commando. Today, these early Jeepsters are highly sought-after collectables that can still be used and enjoyed.
HIGHLIGHTS: 134 cubic inch "Go Devil" 4-cylinder engine
3-speed manual transmission
Folding convertible top
Wide whitewall radial tires
Chrome bumpers
Stock and unmodified classic
Red and black paint scheme
Red interior
Original steering wheel
Original dash and gauges
Accessory spotlight
With is Red and Black paint scheme, red interior and radial wide whitewall tires, this classic has an irresistible charm and character that turns heads everywhere it roams.
Rather rare as one of only 19,132 original VJ-Series Jeepsters produced, this 1949 Willys is powered by 134-cid, F-head "Go Devil" four-cylinder engine developing 62 horsepower mated to a 3-speed manual transmission that makes it fun to drive. With a charming patina and benefiting from collector ownership and care, this 1949 Willys Jeepster Phaeton exemplifies the early versatility of the world-famous Jeep. Call today!
