Comanche Target Market, Name Origin

The Comanche is aimed at a target market of "light construction, hauling, and farming, as well as pleasure - to transport motorcycles or surfboards, for example".

The name Comanche was chosen from a list of 11 finalists.  It ties in with the name Cherokee, the SUV which the Comanche is based upon.

The target market average annual income of a Comanche owner is $19,000.  This is compared to the normal target market for all Jeeps, 25-49 year old men with an annual income of $32,000.

Source:
The Milwaukee Journal - Nov 12, 1985
Page 1, 2

Comanche Keeps on Truckin'

(This is an excellent article discussing the Comanche and what makes it a great vehicle, please view the original source.)

 Photo enhanced and restored from "Reading Eagle - Nov 3, 1985 - taken by Richard J. Patrick"
 
Source:
Reading Eagle - Nov 3, 1985
C-18

Jeep Comanche Test Vehicle Specs Released

Wheelbase: 119.6 inches
Overall Length: 194 inches
Width: 71.7 inches
Height: 63.7 inches
Base curb weight: 3,023 lb

Box size:
88.5 in long
55.3 in wide
16.4 in height

Cargo volume:
46.4 cubic feet

Payload capacity:
1,200 lb

Optional metric ton payload:
2,205 lb

Tow Rating:
Class I Hitch: 2,000 lb, 250 lb tongue
Class II Hitch: 4,200 lb, 500 lb tongue

Engine:
Standard: 4 cylinder 250 cubic inch (2.5 L)
117 hp @ 5,000 rpm
135 ft-lb torque @ 3,500 rpm
24/27 mpg

Optional: 6 cylinder
"more torque at lower rpm"
17/22 mpg
(other statistics missing)



Source:
Morning Call - Allentown, PA
Sep 7, 1985, page 143

AMC Launches Pickup Truck

American Motors Corp announced a mid-size pickup line today called the "Jeep Comanche".  Per AMC, this truck is based upon the Jeep Cherokee.

Source:
San Jose Mercury News (CA) Sept 4, 1985
3F Business

Beach Boys to unveil AMC's Jeep Comanche

The Beach Boys signed a deal with AMC today to unveil the Jeep Comanche on stage at their Mother's Day concert in San Diego.

Source:
Montreal Gazette May 11, 1985
I-3

Jeep plans to release Comanche compact pickup

AMC plans to introduce for the 1986 model year a new pickup, the Jeep Comanche, available in two and four wheel drive.

Source:
The Milwaukee Journal - Jan 4, 1985

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