The 1970 Jeep Jeepster Commando occupies a unique corner of the vintage 4×4 market, blending car-like comfort with rugged off-road hardware. While many of these early sport utility vehicles were pushed to their limits and abandoned, this station wagon tells a much more personal story. Purchased new in Medford, Oregon, it has remained within the same family for fifty-five years. Such long-term ownership is rare, providing a level of continuity that collectors value highly. It arrives at auction as an honest, well-loved example that has clearly played a central role in its family’s history for generations.
The Aesthetic of Avocado Mist
The exterior of this 1970 Jeep Jeepster Commando was repainted in its striking Avocado Mist metallic shade approximately two decades ago. A white removable steel hardtop provides a classic two-tone contrast that was very popular during the early seventies. You will notice traditional Jeep design cues, such as the seven-slot grille and the functional drop-down tailgate. While the paint shows some honest blemishes and chips, it maintains a nostalgic character that new restorations often lack. Bright bumpers and polished wheel covers add just enough shine to highlight the vehicle’s utilitarian roots. It is a truck that invites conversation at every fuel stop.
Chassis and All-Terrain Capability
Underneath the vintage sheet metal, the 1970 Jeep Jeepster Commando relies on a robust four-wheel-drive system for various terrain types. It features manually locking Warn front hubs and a Dana 20 dual-range transfer case for true off-road versatility. The 15-inch steel wheels were recently fitted with fresh Toyo Extensa tires to ensure better safety and grip. Power steering makes navigating tight spaces much easier than the manual setups found in many competitors. Recent maintenance included new wheel cylinders for the drum brakes, though the truck retains its classic, unassisted stopping feel. This mechanical simplicity is exactly what makes early Jeeps so approachable for hobbyists.
Interior Comfort in Buckskin Vinyl
The cabin of the 1970 Jeep Jeepster Commando offers a surprisingly refined environment for a utility vehicle of its age. Reupholstered Buckskin vinyl seats provide a comfortable place to sit while maintaining the vehicle’s period-correct aesthetic. A center console sits between the front bucket seats, offering convenient storage that was quite advanced for 1970. While the original dashboard radio is currently inoperable, a newer Concord AM/FM stereo has been tucked underneath for entertainment. Beige flooring and bright doorsill plates complete the interior look, reflecting the wagon’s transition from a workhorse to a family cruiser. It feels like stepping back into a simpler era of American motoring.
Documentation and Historical Provenance
What truly separates this 1970 Jeep Jeepster Commando from others is the extensive paperwork included with the sale. The original 1970 purchase receipt from Medford Motors confirms a total price of just over four thousand dollars. Such documentation is incredibly rare for a vehicle that has survived more than half a century. Buyers will also receive the manufacturer’s literature, a detailed service manual, and several vintage brochures. These items provide a window into how the vehicle was marketed and maintained during the prime of its life. This history makes the truck more than just a machine; it is a documented piece of Oregon automotive culture.
Dauntless V6 Specs and Performance
The 1970 Jeep Jeepster Commando is powered by the legendary 225ci Dauntless V6, an engine famous for its low-end torque. Rebuilt around 2005, this motor was factory-rated at 160 horsepower and a stout 235 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with a reliable three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic automatic transmission for smooth power delivery. Recent 2025 service included a new distributor cap and battery, ensuring the engine remains ready for regular use. The Dauntless V6 provided a significant performance boost over the four-cylinder engines typically found in smaller Jeeps of the day. It remains a favorite among enthusiasts for its durability and iconic rhythmic exhaust note.
Summary of the Commando Legacy
This 1970 Jeep Jeepster Commando stands as an enduring example of a one-family-owned legacy. With its rebuilt V6 engine and classic Avocado Mist color scheme, it offers a perfect entry point into the world of vintage Jeeps. The inclusion of the original 1970 sales paperwork and extensive service records adds immense value for the next steward. While it shows some age-appropriate wear, its mechanical honesty and family history are impossible to replicate. It represents a rare opportunity to acquire a well-documented station wagon at no reserve. This Jeepster is ready to begin its next fifty-year chapter with a new family.
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Source: bringatrailer.com
