1948 Willys-Overland Jeepster

Description

“Meet the Jeepster, an exciting new sports phaeton by Willys-Overland.” The model VJ Jeepster was very new and very different. Following the end of World War II, the Willys-Overland company with the help of industrial designer Brooks Stevens created a model with more appeal to the youth market. The Jeepster borrowed the mechanics and much of the sheet metal from the Willys Station Wagon, but Stevens made it a phaeton, like a true roadster with removable cloth top and side curtains but with an additional row of seats. Offered only in rear-wheel drive, the 1948 Jeepster featured the “Go Devil” 60 hp, 134 cu-in four-cylinder engine, three-speed manual transmission (with optional overdrive), drum brakes, and a single transverse leaf spring front suspension. But the unique vehicle failed to win over traditional Willys customers; 10,326 were built in 1948, yet by 1950 just 19,131 total were assembled, marking the end of Jeepster production. However, in 1971 British rock band T. Rex paid tribute to the Jeepster in a song of the same name, singing “Girl, I'm just a Jeepster for your love.” 

This well restored 1948 Jeepster is offered by a true early Jeep enthusiast, a beautiful example of America’s unique sports phaeton. 

Highlights 

• First year of the unique Jeepster 

• One of 10,326 Jeepsters produced in 1948 

• Four-cylinder “Go Devil” 134.2 cu-in engine producing 62 hp  

• Three-speed manual transmission with optional overdrive 

• Finished in Michigan Yellow paint 

• The chassis number (463-69836) decodes as:  

  • 463 – Four-cylinder Jeepster 

  • 69836 – Serial number  

• This 1948 Willys-Overland Jeepster is offered with the five-digit odometer currently showing just over 54,814 miles at the time of listing; however, the true mileage is unknown 

Features 

• Overdrive 

• Easy-posture seats 

• Wind wings 

• Dual windshield wipers 

• Deluxe steering wheel 

• Chrome-plated fender steps 

• Dual horns 

• Dual tail and stop lights 

• Fabric tire cover 

• Front bumper guards 

• Heater/defroster  

• Tire Size: 6.50-15  

• Electrical: 6 Volt  

• Transmission: Borg-Warner T-96 three-speed manual with optional overdrive 

• Front Suspension: Planar independent with transverse leaf spring 

• Rear Axle: Dana 23  

• Wheelbase: 104.5 inch   

Known Imperfections 

• Paint scratches and paint chips on all fenders and rear bumper 

• Two larger scratches on passenger rear quarter panel  

• Some staining below fuel filler neck 

• White discoloration on driver’s leather door card 

Included 

• Side curtain windows 

Ownership History 

The consignor has owned over 500 Willys Jeepsters, Pickups and Station Wagons over the years. This 1948 Jeepster has been serviced, test driven, and approved by the consignor. 

Additional Notes 

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

Contact: Cason Vogel    Phone: 904.504.7848    email: cvogel@hagerty.com   

Sales Tax Notice to Arkansas, Mississippi, and West Virginia Bidders: Because this car is located in Florida, Hagerty Marketplace may be required to collect and remit Florida sales tax on your purchase, even if you plan to register it outside of Florida.  Unlike most other states, the states of Arkansas, Mississippi, and West Virginia may not provide a full credit against sales taxes paid to Florida.  For additional information, please consult this publication and your own tax advisor regarding sales taxes applicable to cars located in Florida that are sold to residents of another state.