Gateway Classic Cars of San Antonio/Austin is proud to present this 1981 Mitsubishi Jeep J54 KJ5, finished in a distinctive blue and tan exterior over a black interior. Its compact dimensions, upright body, and open-air design retain the unmistakable appearance of the classic Jeep while offering something considerably less common than its American counterparts.
Power comes from a 2.7-liter Mitsubishi 4DR5 inline-four diesel engine paired with a 4-speed manual transmission. The naturally aspirated diesel was a factory powerplant for the J54 and provides this lightweight 4x4 with a distinctly mechanical character.
The J54 was built as a short-wheelbase 4x4, measuring only about 133.5 inches long with a wheelbase just under 80 inches. Its part-time four-wheel-drive system uses a two-speed transfer case, giving this compact Mitsubishi genuine off-road hardware to go along with its rugged appearance.
Inside, the black interior continues the Jeep's straightforward and functional design. An AM/FM radio adds a touch of convenience, while the manual transmission and simple controls reflect the utilitarian nature of the J54.
One of the coolest things about this vehicle is that it isn't simply a Japanese vehicle styled to resemble an old Jeep. Mitsubishi began producing Jeeps in Japan under license from Willys in the 1950s and continued developing the platform for decades. The 4DR5 diesel-powered J54 joined the family in 1970, combining the familiar Jeep design with Mitsubishi's own diesel drivetrain.
That history makes this 1981 J54 an unusual combination of American Jeep heritage and Japanese manufacturing. Its 2.7-liter diesel, 4-speed manual transmission, short wheelbase, and four-wheel-drive system make it a particularly interesting alternative to the classic Jeeps more commonly seen in the United States.
This 1981 Mitsubishi Jeep J54 KJ5 is listed by our San Antonio/Austin showroom and can be viewed in greater detail, including over 100 HD pictures and an HD video, at GatewayClassicCars.com. For more information, email [email protected] or visit us at 679 Holcan Drive, Suite 105, New Braunfels, Texas 78130.
