Willys Jeepster
Breaking from its rugged CJ sibling, the 1948-1950 Willys Jeepster was a sporty passenger car, not a utility vehicle. It's a unique rear-wheel-drive phaeton that was designed for cruising rather than off-road work.
Willys Jeepster sold for a median of $16,500 over the last 12 months, based on 21 auction sales; the middle 50% sold between $13,650 and $27,000. 79 currently for sale.
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Willys Jeepster prices by year
| Year | Median (3 yrs) | Middle 50% | Sales (3 yrs) | For sale now |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1948 | $17k | $13k–$22k | 14 | 13 |
| 1949 | $20k | $16k–$29k | 25 | 28 |
| 1950 | $18k | $14k–$22k | 21 | 28 |
| 1951 | $12k | – | 3 | 7 |
Auction sales in the last 3 years; prices leave out salvage and other branded titles.
Listings
The Willys-Overland Jeepster (VJ) was a unique post-war creation, sold from 1948 to 1950, with some leftover stock sold into 1951. Designed by Brooks Stevens, it was intended as a sporty passenger car rather than a rugged utility vehicle like its CJ sibling. It was offered only with rear-wheel drive and featured a phaeton body style with side curtains, not a true convertible with roll-up windows. The initial 'Go-Devil' 4-cylinder engine was joined by an optional 'Hurricane' 6-cylinder in 1949.
Collectors are drawn to the Jeepster's distinctive styling and fun-loving character. It offers a simple, open-air driving experience that stands out from more common classics. With fewer than 20,000 built, its rarity is a key part of its appeal, and many mechanical parts are shared with other Willys vehicles, which simplifies upkeep.
The market for Jeepsters is well-established and relatively affordable. With an average sale price around $21,000, it's an accessible entry into post-war American car collecting. Top-tier restorations can exceed $40,000, but solid, driver-quality examples are available for much less, providing good value for a unique classic.
Buying Tips
- Rust is the biggest issue; thoroughly inspect the floors, frame, and body mounts.
- Check the condition of the convertible top and side curtains, as high-quality replacements are expensive.
- The 'Hurricane' 6-cylinder engine, offered from 1949, provides a welcome power increase over the standard 4-cylinder.
- Verify that all chrome trim, hubcaps, and unique Jeepster badging are present and in good condition, as these parts can be hard to source.
- Many examples have been converted from their original 6-volt electrical system to a 12-volt system; check the quality of the conversion work.
Prices range from $6,000 for project cars to over $42,000 for the best restored examples.
580 Willys Jeepster vehicles have been tracked across auctions and listings on Hypercars, with 79 currently live.
Data sourced from auction results and dealer and private listings, including Bring a Trailer, Cars & Bids, Mecum, RM Sotheby’s and eBay Motors. Updated daily.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Willys Jeepster cost?
Over the last 12 months, Willys Jeepster sold for a median of $16,500 across 21 auction sales tracked on Hypercars; the middle 50% sold between $13,650 and $27,000. There are 79 currently for sale.
How many Willys Jeepster listings are for sale right now?
There are 79 Willys Jeepster listings currently live across auctions, dealers, and marketplaces tracked by Hypercars.