The M35A2 Is The 6.75-Ton Military Vehicle You Can Own

The M35 first saw action right after World War II and served as the United States military’s do-it-all heavy-duty cargo truck for several decades. The A2 variant is the most common; it earned the name “Deuce and a Half” for its stated 2.5-ton carrying capacity and similarity to World War II-era vehicles (via SiloDrome). It can be configured as a covered troop transport, a tractor trailer, a box truck, a pickup truck, and even a platform for all manner of machine guns and other armaments (via Motor Trend). The model was originally produced by the Kaiser Jeep corporation, making it technically a Jeep product, although your local Jeep dealership likely won’t be able to service it as it weighs well over 13,000 pounds.

For specs, the M35A2 is equipped with a turbodiesel straight-six engine and six-wheel drive. Cargo models were equipped with a 12-foot-long bed. While modern trucks are essentially luxury cars that can haul a sheet or two of plywood, the M35A2’s interior is a little more minimalistic. Air conditioning, for example, was not an available feature, according to Motor Trend. What it lacks in creature comforts, it makes up for in versatility. You’d be hard-pressed to find a new truck at the dealership that can make a trip to the hardware store while carrying several fully equipped soldiers.