Description
Vintage and Prestige are proud to offer this 1943 Ford Willys Jeep G. P. W For Sale.
Chassis no: GPW163527
Engine no: 163527
Registration: JDF 655
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 Jeep was up and running by 1940, meeting the US 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 Capital by Willys's test driver, Irving 'Red' Haussman.
Produced by the million, the ubiquitous Jeep saw service in every area 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 charming Jeep was during WW2 by the United States Air Force and has had just three owners since it’s first UK registration in 1949, the current owner has been the custodian for the last 19 years and cared for and maintained the GPW.
Normally we would describe a car as coming with “all the bells and whistles”, but in this case the jeep comes with all the shovels and axes! A true delight to drive, the engine fires with minimal effort and pulls you along the road with ease.
An iconic 4x4 in excellent condition, this would be well suited to any enthusiast, collection or in the line up out the front of the Goodwood revival each year.
In our showroom and ready for viewing.
A gallery of large high-resolution pictures may be viewed on our website.
Office the details below
Richard Biddulph the details below
Christoff Cowens the details below
We accept Credit/ Debit Cards.
Part Exchange welcome.
Weekend & evening viewings OK.
Viewings by appointment :
Prestige House.
9 Globe Industrial Estate,
Grays, Essex, RM17 6ST
