*Bidders should note that the Thompson Submachine Gun shown is not included in the sale but the mount is*
Highlights
- Wartime military Ford GPW Command Reconnaissance vehicle, built in January 1945
- In present ownership since the early 1970s, during which time it has reportedly covered exceedingly few miles
- Serviced, recommissioned in 2021 and said to be ready for road use
The Appeal
It’s hard to overstate the significance of the Willys Jeep. It’s the original 4x4 and one of, if not the most significant vehicle produced by the Allies during the Second World War.
We’re delighted to offer this wartime example, built by Ford in January of 1945. It remains in US Military livery and has been in the ownership of the same family since the early 1970s. Presented in very good, usable condition with a few battle scars accrued here and there, this is a smart example that’s a fitting reminder of the conflict, for which it was built.
While this Jeep has been utilised predominantly as a display piece for the last half-century, apparently covering around 30 miles only, it was serviced and recommissioned in November 2021 and the vendor informs us that it’s in good driving condition.
The History and Paperwork
- Ford-built GPW
- Accompanied by a collection of period documentation, including parts lists and operation manuals
- Selection of books about wartime Jeeps present and included in the sale
- Declared manufactured in January 1945 by the DVLA
- Age-related registration number, with DVLA correspondence relating to its allocation
- Paperwork and correspondence from The Military Vehicle Trust included
- There are several invoices for past servicing work
- We’re unable to verify the mileage displayed on the odometer
- The vendor informs us that the Jeep has only covered around 30 years in their family’s ownership
- Acquired by the vendor’s mother as a gift for the vendor’s father during the early 1970s
- Exempt from road tax and MOT testing
- Last MOT tested in 2018
The Interior
- Basic, utilitarian and seemingly quite original, with some previous restoration work pointed out by the vendor
- Bidders should note that the Thompson Submachine Gun shown is not included in the sale
- In very good condition for its age with a little wear as is to be expected
- Some of the paint has inevitably worn away a little in places
- The seat coverings exhibit some slight discolouration, fitting in perfectly with the overall level of patination
- Protective rubber floor mats bearing a ‘Tweety Pie’ novelty motif
- Very few signs of any corrosion
- The instrumentation presents well
- Gentle patination to the steering wheel, pedals and various levers
The Exterior
- Still wears US Military livery
- Olive drab paint work
- There are a few areas of paint loss - most notably on the flat wing tops
- We enjoy the wear as it suits a vehicle of this nature
- The wheels look smart and Goodyear tyres appear in great condition
- A length of traditional rope hangs decoratively on the front bumper
- No obvious signs of serious corrosion, or indeed any damage to the bodywork
- Looks to be very sound underneath
- Equipped with a rudimentary canvas roof which appears in good order
The Mechanics
- 2.2-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with a single Zenith carburettor
- Three-speed gearbox with two-speed transfer case
- Four-wheel drive
- The transfer box looks to have been restored or at least refinished quite recently, with fresh paint and bright fasteners
- The vendor informs us that it drives correctly with no mechanical defects
- New battery fitted
Summary
Seldom do you encounter the opportunity to acquire a vehicle that’s so historically significant as this 1945 Jeep. It’s wonderful that it has survived all these years and better still, is said to be in good working order.
Be sure not to miss out on this well presented Ford-built Willys Jeep.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only. Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.
