The Jeep is one of the most recognizable vehicles in the United States and the rest of the world. For more than 75 years, the brand has been associated with freedom, passion, and adventure. It’s known for its unique, rugged style as well as its extensive life story. Keep reading to learn more about Jeep’s rich history.
Military Roots
Just before World War II, the United States War Department asked auto companies to come up with a light reconnaissance vehicle. The government wanted the car to be capable, durable, and light. Willys-Overland, a company in Toledo, Ohio, created the first Jeep, called the Willys MB. Almost 700,000 were shipped to battlefields in Europe and Asia. Today’s Jeeps have the same iconic look as the ones from the 1940s. Many new models and styles are available as well.
Unique Name
Jeep was a slang term for GP, the military abbreviation for General Purpose. The name may have come from a Popeye comic strip as well. A character called Eugene the Jeep could teleport and walk through walls. The vehicle could get through tough terrain as well.
Jeep CJ
After World War II ended in 1945, Willys started selling Jeeps to civilians. The first model was the Willys CJ-2A. It could work as a mobile generator for power tools, farm implements, and industrial tools. It had more features than military models, including a tailgate, a side-mounted spare tire, an external gas cap, and larger headlights. CJ was an abbreviation for Civilian Jeep.
In 1953, the Kaiser Company purchased Willys-Overland. It introduced the Jeep CJ-3B with a taller hood and an engine with 25 percent more horsepower. The CJ-5 came in 1955, and it was longer with a less angular profile. In 1965, it got a new V-6 engine with 155 horsepower and 225 pound-feet of torque, almost twice as much power as the previous four-cylinder engine. The CJ-6 was 20 inches longer than the CJ-5, and it became available in 1956.
Wagoneer
The 1963 Jeep Wagoneer was the first luxury four-wheel drive SUV. It was also the first four-wheel-drive vehicle to have an automatic transmission and an independent front suspension. It combined style, comfort, and lots of capabilities.
Cherokee
The 1975 Jeep Cherokee was a two-door version of the Wagoneer. It had bucket seats and sporty trim. A four-door version became available as well in 1977.
Wrangler
The Jeep Wrangler replaced the CJ in 1987. It had a similar profile, but most of its components were new. It had a wider wheelbase, rectangular headlights, and a more comfortable interior. In the same year, Jeep became part of Chrysler.
Grand Cherokee
The 1993 Jeep Grand Cherokee was the first SUV with a driver’s side air bag. A 5.2-liter V-8 engine was available as well. Today, the Grand Cherokee is one of six Jeep models on sale for 2019, including the all-new Gladiator.
To discover more about the fascinating history of this popular brand, contact Sea View Jeep.We can help you choose the best Jeep for your needs from our extensive inventory.
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