1967 Jeep Commando: A Compact Off-Roader with Big Ambitions
The 1967 Jeep Commando, officially known as the Jeepster Commando, marked a significant chapter in Jeep's history. Positioned as a sportier, more car-like alternative to the rugged CJ series, the Commando aimed to blend Jeep's renowned off-road prowess with a more stylish and comfortable package, appealing to a broader audience than its more utilitarian brethren. This compact SUV was built on a modified Jeep CJ-5 chassis, offering a compelling blend of capability and versatility for its era.
Origins and Market Positioning:
Kaiser Jeep introduced the Jeepster Commando in 1966 as a response to the growing demand for recreational vehicles that could handle off-road adventures without sacrificing everyday usability. It was intended to compete with vehicles like the Ford Bronco and International Scout, but with a distinct Jeep identity. The "Jeepster" moniker harkened back to a similar, albeit much smaller and car-based, Jeep model from the 1940s, suggesting a lineage of stylish, open-air vehicles.
Body Styles and Design:
The 1967 Commando was offered in several distinct body styles, each catering to different needs and preferences:
- Station Wagon: The most enclosed and family-oriented option, featuring a more conventional SUV-like profile.
- Roadster: An open-top, two-seater model that emphasized its sporty and recreational nature.
- Targa: A unique convertible style with a removable roof panel, offering an open-air experience while retaining some structural integrity.
- Tucson: A pickup truck variant, adding utility for hauling and work.
Visually, the Commando presented a more refined and less utilitarian appearance compared to the CJ-5. It featured a distinctive grille, round headlights set into flared fenders, and often a more substantial chrome trim package. The overall design aimed for a blend of ruggedness and a touch of sporty flair, making it a more approachable option for everyday use.
Powertrain and Mechanicals:
Under the hood, the 1967 Jeep Commando was available with a choice of two engines:
- 2.7L (160 cu in) Dauntless V6: This overhead-valve V6, manufactured by Buick, was the more powerful and popular option. It provided a good balance of performance for both on-road cruising and off-road climbing.
- 3.7L (225 cu in) Dauntless Inline-6: This engine, also a Buick design, offered more low-end torque, which is beneficial for serious off-roading.
Both engines were typically mated to a 3-speed manual transmission. A 3-speed automatic transmission became available later in the Commando's production run.
Key mechanical features inherited from its CJ-5 roots included:
- Solid Axles: Front and rear solid axles with leaf spring suspension provided the robust articulation and ground clearance necessary for off-road driving.
- Four-Wheel Drive: The iconic Jeep 4WD system, with a Dana transfer case, was standard, allowing drivers to engage two-speed four-wheel drive for tackling challenging terrain.
- Four-Wheel Drum Brakes: While effective for the era, these were a common feature across many vehicles and would be a significant difference compared to modern disc brake systems.
Interior and Features:
The interior of the 1967 Commando was designed to be more comfortable and car-like than the Spartan CJ models. While still functional, it featured more comfortable seating, a more organized dashboard with a full array of gauges, and optional amenities like a heater and radio. The Targa and Roadster models offered a more open-air experience, with the ability to remove the windshield and fold it down for a truly vintage off-road feel.
Legacy and Significance:
The 1967 Jeep Commando, while not as enduringly iconic as the CJ series, played a crucial role in expanding Jeep's market appeal. It demonstrated that Jeep could produce vehicles that were not only incredibly capable off-road but also stylish and comfortable enough for daily driving and recreational activities. Its unique styling and varied body options made it a distinctive offering in the burgeoning SUV market of the late 1960s. Today, surviving 1967 Jeep Commandos are sought after by collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate their blend of Jeep heritage, sporty design, and versatile capabilities.