Kaiser Jeep reintroduced one of its most popular vehicles, the Jeepster, in 1967 to supplement its very successful production of medium duty military trucks and to compete with vehicles like the Ford Bronco and Toyota Land Cruiser in the civilian market. In 1972 Kaiser’s new parent company, American Motors, lengthened the wheelbase to 104 inches and renamed the revised Jeep the Commando C104. The front end was also altered to accept AMC engines from a 232 cubic inch straight-six to a 304 cubic inch V8, and the Commando received a full width grille that distinguished it from earlier Jeeps. 20,000 Commando C104s were built before it was replaced by the full-size Cherokee in 1974.
This 1972 Jeep Commando Convertible is a fully restored, splendid example with exquisite paint and interior as well as a finely detailed engine compartment. A three owner car, it was purchased new on February 29, 1972 in Chattanooga, Tennessee and was with its second owner from August of 1972 until 2009. Included are the original sales invoice and financing paperwork from its second owner, the original warranty book, numerous receipts from the 1970s, an owner’s manual, several original Jeep brochures and even the original vehicle emission control stickers.
Finished in Jetset Blue Metallic, this Commando also has a brand new black vinyl convertible top, tonneau cover and thin whitewall tires. The blue interior is both new and period correct, and also features correct blue carpets and the original Jeep AM radio. As for equipment, it is a four-wheel drive example with locking hubs and is powered by AMC’s 304 cubic inch V8 coupled to an automatic transmission with a separate transfer case. It also features power steering and power brakes for added drivability. A capable and comfortable truck, this Jeepster Commando could even be shown given the quality of its restoration, which is not only outstanding but also completely correct. Vintage trucks in this kind of condition and with this level of attention to detail are not a common sight, and for those who appreciate the style and utility of the classic Jeep Commando, this pristinely and accurately restored 1972 model is an ideal example.
