Jeeps

The Jeep name has its origins in the term “General Purpose Vehicle.” Originally designed for the U.S. Army in World War II, the military workhorse caught on with civilians after the end of hostilities. In those days, Jeeps were unpolished Army surplus items, always ready for the off-road adventures of their equally rugged owners.

The demand for a simple, capable four-wheel-drive truck put Jeeps in every American state and in a host of inhospitable environments around the world. Over the years, their round headlights, fold-down windshield, removable doors, and rear-mounted spare tires became synonymous with adventures on slick, muddy trails and expeditions into steep hill country. Whether crossing streams or navigating rocky fields, Jeeps were at home in harsh terrain.

Eventually, Jeeps began showing up in places their camo-clad drivers almost never traveled: the surfing beach, the shopping mall, and the suburban garage. Though reimagined for less challenging landscapes, today's Jeeps are still capable of wallowing in axle-deep sludge and traversing even the bumpiest dirt roads, without skimping on style or creature comforts.

Quick Facts

• In 2015, a 1957 Willys Jeep Wagon sold for charity at a Barrett-Jackson auction for $50,000
• In March 2015, a 2015 Omix-ADA Jeep Wrangler JK Sport sold at a Barrett-Jackson SEMA Cares charity auction for $85,000
• At an April 2015 Barrett-Jackson auction in Palm Beach, a 1988 Jeep Grand Wagoneer sold for $11,000