1943 Willys Military Jeep

134ci L-head Willys Inline 4-Cylinder Engine
Single Downdraft Carburetor
60bhp at 4,000rpm
4-Speed Manual Transmission – 4-Wheel Drive
4-Wheel Leaf Spring Suspension
4-Wheel Hydraulic Drum Brakes

*Most iconic military vehicle of all time
*Recipient of a comprehensive restoration
*Equipped with field and weather equipment
*Go anywhere, Do anything - A flag waving symbol of America


THE MOTORCAR OFFERED

Although forever associated with Willys-Overland, the original Jeep military vehicle was developed by American Bantam, formerly American Austin. Designed to meet the US Army's requirement for a rugged, go-anywhere, four-wheel-drive vehicle capable of surviving on the barest minimum of unskilled maintenance, Bantam's prototype was up and running by 1940, meeting the Army's requirements apart from the engine, which was deemed insufficiently powerful. The Pentagon though, doubted Bantam's ability to meet the military's post-Pearl Harbor demands so the major contracts went to Willys - the only other firm that had submitted a tender - and the Ford Motor Company, which would be responsible for the Jeep's trademark slotted radiator grille. Willys made various modifications to take advantage of a revised maximum weight requirement, which meant it was able to use its relatively heavy but adequately powerful 'Go Devil' engine. It was in this revised form that the Jeep would enter volume production. Willys-Overland's final production version was the Model MB, Ford's being designated the Model GPW. There were subtle differences between the two versions, Ford's having its components marked with the letter 'F'.

After extensive field testing, the Jeep's off-road capability was first publicly demonstrated early in 1941 when one was driven up the steps of the United States Capitol by Willys's test driver, Irving 'Red' Haussman. Produced by the million, the ubiquitous Jeep saw service in every theatre of the Second World War and continued in military service with armies world-wide for several decades thereafter. Today the Jeep remains highly sought after by discerning military vehicle enthusiasts.


THE MOTORCAR OFFERED

This lovely example of the Willys Military Jeep has been restored back to the state it would've appeared in during its original service. The restoration was carried out approximately 10 years ago by a Southern California outfit, under the supervision of the previous owner, himself a WWII Veteran. As such, the general-purpose nature of the vehicle is on full display with hull mounted tools. The consignor purchased the Jeep in the past decade, as a generous gift to another honorable WWII Veteran, to be used around their Big Bear home. Showing in wonderful condition, this Jeep is ready to go anywhere and do anything. Essential to the allied war effort, the Jeep is an unmistakable icon that deserves a spot in any comprehensive collection.