Kaiser Jeep was one of the pioneers in Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs), but they weren’t called that back in the 1960s. The Jeepster Commando debuted in 1966 to give Ford, Toyota, and International a run for their money with the respective Brono, Land Cruiser, and Scout. This Deluxe edition of the convertible from 1967 is in gorgeous condition and looks ready for you to show off. Located in Montclair, New Jersey, this teal and white SUV is available here on craigslist for $25,000. Kudos to Mitchell G. for coming up with this great tip!
More than 57,000 variants of the Jeepster Commando were built from 1966 to 1971. Kaiser sold Jeep to American Motors in 1970 who continued with the product, but they would rely on AMC drivetrains going forward. Four versions of the Commando were offered, including a pickup, wagon, roadster, and a convertible like the one seen here. Two engines were offered: the 134 cubic inch Hurricane I-4 and the 225 Dauntless V6. The latter was good for 160 hp and was the more popular choice (including the seller’s).
We don’t know the history of this sharp Jeepster, but it has been well taken care of and had lots of work done to it recently at 68,000 miles. The 3-speed manual transmission has been rebuilt and the hydraulics for the convertible top have been replaced along with the vinyl material. The vehicle is the Deluxe model that is equipped with a factory continental kit. The 4-wheel-drive is selectable, and it has freewheeling hubs.
No mention is made if the paint or interior has been redone, and they look super nice regardless of being original or not. We’re told the vehicle runs as it should and the engine has been painted but not refurnished. If I were looking for one of these vintage vehicles, I’d probably go for the Commando over the Brono or Scout because it’s a Jeep!
That continental kit is hideous. Why would Jeep have even offered such an unsightly thing?!?!
It wasn’t an offer, that’s how the deluxe jeepster roadster was equipped. I had the twin of this one except for the power top. Got rear ended at a light. The other car was a total. Only had to have the bumper mounts reworked by a black smith. Spring steel mounts.
Well the Deluxe was offered, so that means the continental kit was offered. Regardless, it’s ridiculous.
one of several notes to mimic the original (1st gen ’48/50 Jeepster)?
Holy Toledo, what a car!
I wonder who else caught that reference?
Max Klinger? You know why it’s called “Holy” Toledo? I believe there are, or were, more churches in Toledo than anywhere else, or so the story goes.
Are those Camaro or mustang hubcaps?
those hubcaps are original to the car–I’ve got one!!
those hubcaps are original to the car–I’ve got one!!
those hubcaps are original to the car–I’ve got one!!
sorry, my mouse was acting up
Too funny. I figured either it was something like that or perhaps a bottle of bourbon was involved lol.
Invest in a cat!
Maybe you have 3?
I’ve always loved the Jeepster Commando! Never owned one, but would like to. THis looks like a good example. No good pics of underneath, though.
This is exactly the car I was talking about! Perfect ’67 Jeepster convertible with the Continental spare tire. The one I saw was triple white.
So wish I had an inheritance to spend! This would be mine.
This 225 V-6 is a Buick engine. I never knew it made 160 hp? It was an odd firing engine. Wonder why TH sold it? There was one of these in a Mecum Auction several years ago with a Buick 350 in it!
I hate spell check!!! It should say, wonder why GM sold it?
Lipstick on a pig – and it will rust the first time it’s driven in the rain. Nope.
these look great w/a small lift and in solid color.
The bronk has an advantage in 3 or 4 swap top
quick-change ability, is a lill bigger. No thing like
the larger Thriftpower motors (3.3, 4.1, 4.9) but the
Commando still has lots to offer (all 4 iterations).
same vehicle I learned to drive a stick in. Even the same color! Tavern owner of my home town had one and he took me out on a Sunday one day after I helped him clean his establishment. Thank you Wally!! RIP