Jeep Commando
Kaiser Jeep's answer to the Ford Bronco and International Scout — a compact SUV built on the CJ chassis.
Introduced in 1966 by Kaiser Jeep, the Commando shared its chassis and drivetrain with the CJ-5 but offered a longer wheelbase and a choice of body styles — roadster, pickup, and wagon — aimed squarely at the same buyers considering a Ford Bronco or International Scout. It's a genuinely less common find today than either competitor, which appeals to collectors looking for something distinct from the more commonly restored CJ line.
History
The original Commando (1966–71) offered a removable hardtop and, distinctively for the segment, an available V6 engine option starting in 1966 — a genuine straight-line-performance advantage over the four-cylinder-only competition at the time.
AMC's 1970 acquisition of Kaiser Jeep led to a 1972 restyle (sometimes called the "Jeepster Commando" in its earlier years, simplified to just "Commando" for 1972–73) with a more conventional grille and front end before the model was discontinued in 1973, replaced in spirit by the Cherokee.
Notable Versions
Jeepster Commando (1966–71)
The original, more distinctively styled version with a removable hardtop and available roadster/pickup/wagon body configurations.
1972–73 Commando
The AMC-era restyle with a more conventional front end, the final and shortest-lived version before discontinuation.
What to Look for When Buying
Key inspection points from experienced collectors.
Parts support is genuinely limited
As a lower-production, less collected classic than the CJ line, expect more difficulty sourcing both mechanical and trim parts.
Confirm which body style and generation you're buying
Roadster, pickup, and wagon configurations across two visually different generations make specification-matching important to get right.
Rust in the frame and floor is common
Same inspection priorities as any classic Jeep of this era — these are genuinely old, often-neglected vehicles.
Quick Specs
- Engine options
- 134 I4, 225 V6, 232–304 I6/V8 (varies by year)
- Horsepower
- 75–160 hp (varies by year/engine)
- Wheelbase
- 101 in
- Transmission
- 3-spd manual, automatic (later years)
- Drivetrain
- RWD or 4WD
Market Price Guide
Approximate USA asking prices
Shop Parts
Find Jeep Commando parts on eBay
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Bring These to Your Inspection
A few inexpensive tools that catch what a walk-around alone won't
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Compression Tester Kit
Checks cylinder compression to catch worn rings or valve issues before you buy.
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OBD2 Code Reader
Reads check-engine codes the seller may not have mentioned — plug in before you even pop the hood.
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Magnetic Paint Thickness Tester
A magnet pulls weaker over filler/bondo than bare metal — a quick way to spot hidden bodywork.
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Telescoping Inspection Mirror & Light Set
See up into wheel wells and behind components without crawling underneath.
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Jeep Commando For Sale
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