Why a Pinzgauer?

The Pinzgauer is a relatively "new" vehicle in the U.S.  Import restrictions on surplus military vehicles mandate that anything imported must be 25 years or older.  The Pinzgauers imported into the US were typically made from the years 1972-1976. And only have been "seriously" imported since 1998. The majority of Pinzgauers are purchased at Swiss  military auctions by dealers who import and sell the vehicles here in the states.

To many, buying a 25+  year old ex-military vehicle would seem like a project only for the serious military collector. Or a mechanic resigned to spending several hundred hours or maintaining a cranky vehicle.   In all honesty,  the Pinzgauer has proven that the original qualities that made this vehicle so appealing to the Swiss military (capability, reliability, & versatility) have also made them an excellent choice as a fun "do everything" vehicle here in the states...today!

The prices for Pinzgauers vary of course.  A bone stock 710M (4 wheels, soft top) will usually run anywhere from only $9000-$12000 depending on condition.  712M's (6 wheel versions will cost from $14000-$16000. Consider what this nominal investment gets you.

• A vehicle that can hold as much or more than a standard pickup. (1-1.5 tons of cargo )  or 10 people.

• A vehicle that stock is as capable off road as anything sold in the United states for 2-3 or even 5 times as much money.  With 14 inches of Ground clearance,  True "shift on the fly" 4 or 6 wheel drive, and differential locks front and rear. The Pinzgauer is capable of off-road travel well beyond the common SUV

• A vehicle that in this day of electronics, is surprisingly easy to maintain.  Parts are not difficult to get.

• A vehicle that never fails to turn heads. Wherever you go!

Some Pinzgauer owners choose to put many thousands of dollars in their trucks with custom paint, seats, wheels, winches, and other options to truly make their trucks look better or ride nicer,  While others choose to leave theirs stock, with OD paint, rust, and dents!   The great thing about the Pinzgauer, is that putting a lot of money into a truck doesn't really make it that much more of a capable truck...  A stock Pinzgauer can pretty much go wherever a modified truck can go, unlike other vehicles that require a great deal of money to make them more capable. 

Pinzgauers are used all over the US. from daily transportation, to family fun vehicles, to exotic off road and winery tour "buses".  Over 21/2 decades since these vehicles were selected by the Swiss military as their "jeep" or "Humvee"  they are again proving their value to a whole new generation of Americans. 

If you are considering a Pinzgauer. you are already using a valuable  resource to get information.  The Internet is by far the best source for information about this vehicle.  Check our Useful links section for other sites that have more information about this unique vehicle.  As usual, knowledge is power, and before you decide to visit one of the fine dealers listed there, or purchase from an individual.  Learn as much as you can about these trucks. 

Another great  resource is joining a Pinzgauer club  such as ours!   With our many events and outings you'll meet other Pinzgauer owners who know these trucks and can help with all aspects of ownership, from insurance to timing settings.   It's also an outstanding opportunity to make new friends and socialize.  Finally, it's just plain fun!