Willys Jeepster
The stylish post-war 'sports phaeton' that bridged the gap between military utility and civilian leisure.
- Power
- 63 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 25.0 s
- Top speed
- 65 mph
- Est. value
- $13k–$45k
About the Willys Jeepster
Designed by the legendary Brooks Stevens, the Willys Jeepster was a bold attempt to market the rugged Jeep brand to a civilian audience as a 'sports phaeton'. It featured a distinctive T-shaped chrome grille bar and a two-door open body, though it lacked roll-up windows, relying instead on plastic side curtains. Despite its jaunty looks, it was strictly rear-wheel drive and struggled to compete with more powerful V8-engined contemporaries from Ford and Chevrolet. Today, it is celebrated as a precursor to the modern crossover, prized by collectors for its unique aesthetic and historical significance as the last true American phaeton.
Willys Jeepster specs
The Willys Jeepster produces 63 bhp (47 kW) and 142 Nm (105 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 25.0 seconds and has a top speed of 65 mph (105 km/h).
| Make | Willys |
|---|---|
| Model | Jeepster |
| Trim | 2.2 |
| Years | 1948–1950 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Convertible |
| Country | United States |
| Production | About 19,132 built |
| Original price | About $1,800 when new |
| Engine | 2.2-litre 'Go-Devil' L-head inline-four |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,199 cc (2.2 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 63 bhp (47 kW) at 4,000 rpm |
| Torque | 142 Nm (105 lb-ft) |
| 0–60 mph | 25.0 s |
| Top speed | 65 mph (105 km/h) |
| Transmission | 3-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,120 kg (2,469 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 56 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Willys Jeepster worth?
A typical Willys Jeepster is estimated to be worth $13,000 – $45,000 (about £9,500 – £34,000).
Its original price when new was about $1,800.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Willys Jeepster rarity in CarSpot
The Willys Jeepster is a Rare card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 42 out of 100. Performance cars, typically worth around £50,000 to £100,000. A Rare card is worth 40 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Willys Jeepster fun facts
- The Jeepster was the last traditional phaeton produced by a major American automaker, featuring a top that lacked permanent side windows.
- Despite its rugged appearance, the Jeepster was never offered with four-wheel drive, a decision intended to make it more car-like for urban buyers.
- Industrial designer Brooks Stevens, who styled the Jeepster, also designed the Oscar Mayer Wienermobile and the Miller Brewing logo.
