For Sale: 1949 Willys Jeepster in Mesa, Arizona

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.

With is Maroon and Black paint scheme, whitewall tires, rear externally-mounted spare tire and chrome trim, this classic has an irresistible charm and character that turns heads everywhere it roams. The clean durable maroon and tan vinyl interior looks great. The dash retains its charming original gauge cluster with "Willys Overland" logo, and side curtains are included just in case it gets cold or rainy. A Boss Audio AM/FM/AUX/Bluetooth radio provides music for cruising.

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 with overdrive that makes it fun to drive.

HIGHLIGHTS:

• 134 Cubic Inch "Go Devil" 4-Cylinder Engine
• 3-Speed Manual Transmission with Overdrive
• Folding Convertible Top
• Radial Whitewall Tires
• Chrome Bumpers
• Stock and Unmodified Classic
• Maroon and Black Paint Scheme
• Tan and Maroon Interior
• Original Steering Wheel
• Original Dash and Gauges
• Side Curtains
• Boss Audio AM/FM/AUX Radio with Bluetooth
• Rear Mounted Spare Tire

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!