1959 Willys Jeep Universal CJ-5

Description

OFFERED WITHOUT RESERVE

In 1942 Willys-Overland was building military MB Jeeps as fast as our armed services could accept them, but the small company needed a plan for after the war. Introduced in 1955, the CJ-5 represented the continuation of the Civilian Jeep (CJ) series that began in 1946, in this case a version of the M-38A1 military Jeep used since the Korean War. Vastly improved over its military sibling, the CJ-5 boasted a longer 81-inch wheelbase, comfortable bucket seats, and more rounded bodywork made of thicker-gauge steel. The sole available engine through 1966 was the 72 horsepower “Hurricane” 134 cu-in F-head four-cylinder to motivate the 2,274-pound CJ-5. The rugged, no-frills CJ-5 proved to be the longest-running iteration of the continually evolving Jeep, remaining in production until 1983.  

This 1959 Jeep CJ-5 had been in the same family since new, and features a full cloth soft top and removable doors for maximum comfort and versatility. Nicely repainted and maintained, it retains the robust “Hurricane” engine, vinyl bucket seats and rear fender benches, and of course Jeep’s famous part-time four-wheel drive. As Jeep said in 1959, “Modern ‘Jeep’ Universal retains the power and stamina of its combat cousin—combines them with new ruggedness, design and utility. Truly, the universal vehicle!” 

Highlights 

• One of 15,040 Jeep CJ-5 produced in 1959 

• Four-cylinder F-134 “Hurricane” 134.2 cu-in engine producing 72 horsepower 

• Three-speed manual transmission and two-speed transfer case 

• Part-time four-wheel drive with manual front hubs 

• BFGoodrich Mud-Terrain T/A tires 

• “Canvas Fulltop” full soft top version with removable doors 

• Padded rear bench seats 

• The chassis number (5754883520) decodes as: 

  • 57548 – Universal Open Body CJ-5 

  • 83520 – Serial number 

Features 

• Aftermarket AM/FM/Cassette radio 

• Fold-flat windshield 

• Driver’s side view mirror 

• Three spoke steering wheel 

• Body color dashboard 

• Combined speedometer, fuel, and water temperature gauges 

• Side-mounted spare tire carrier 

• Tow hitch with step 

• Four-wheel drum brakes  

• Manually locking front hubs 

• Heater/defroster 

• Tire Size: 6.00-16 

• Electrical: 12 Volt 

• Transmission: Borg-Warner T-90 three-speed manual 

• Transfer Case: Two-speed Dana 18  

• Rear Axle: Dana 44 

• Front Axle: Dana 25 

• Wheelbase: 81 inches 

Known Imperfections 

• Small oil leak 

• Generally good condition for an older Jeep with the minor patina and imperfections that come with age and enjoyment

Ownership History

This 1959 Willys Jeep Universal CJ-5 has been owned by one family. The consignor states: This 1959 Willys Jeep Universal CJ-5 has been owned by one family. “Originally purchased in California by my great grandfather for recreational use and hunting in the mountains. It was then passed on to my grandfather in Detroit. My grandfather had it shipped to Chicago by train from California. My grandfather and father then drove the Jeep from Chicago to St. Clair Shores, Michigan. Again, it was used as a ‘Sunday’ recreation vehicle. My grandparents retired to Stuart, Florida, and I personally trailered the Jeep and drove it down to them from Michigan. When my grandfather passed away, my grandmother shipped the Jeep up to me in Macomb, Michigan, where it has also been used lightly in the summer months. Note that it has been garage kept during its time with me from 2002 forward. There have been no major modifications made to the vehicle to my knowledge. I have had it serviced locally, as needed. The wiring of the vehicle has been completely redone and all electrical components are in good working order, as well as a new gas tank, wheels and tires, all approximately four years ago”

Additional Notes 

A Broad Arrow Group Consignment Specialist is working as an agent on behalf of the owner of this vehicle.   

Contact: Craig Zimmerman Phone: 586.707.5811 Email: cszimmerman@hagerty.com