LOT 125

1942 Willys Jeep Model MB 4x4 Military Vehicle with Bantam Trailer Chassis no. 186885

Sold for €35,650 inc. premiumLot to be sold without reserve

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Lot 125

Incredibly equipped
1942 Willys Jeep Model MB 4x4 Military Vehicle with Bantam Trailer

The Autoworld Sale|13 May 2023, 14:00 CEST|Brussels, Autoworld

1942 Willys Jeep Model MB 4x4 Military Vehicle with Bantam Trailer
Chassis no. 186885

• Exceptionally well equipped
• Present enthusiast ownership since 2004
• Professionally restored by Jeep Village Paris (completed 2016)
• Dry stored and little used since restoration

Footnotes

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 Harbour 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.

This Willys-built example is exceptionally with equipped with all possible features and period items including a radio and a rifle strapped to the dashboard. The late owner, a military vehicle enthusiast, has owned the Jeep since 2004. Around 2013, the Jeep was involved in an accident when someone drove into it, causing severe damage. It was then decided to have it fully repaired/restored by Jeep specialists Jeep Village Paris.
In 2016 the restoration was complete and the related invoice for the finished Jeep totalled €37,770; a staggering amount indeed, although a one-year warranty was included. The Jeep has hardly been used since, being dry-stored on stands (all wheels off the ground). Ready for its next adventure, the Jeep comes complete with a rare Bantam trailer.

Additional information

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