Willys MB Jeep

One of the great icons of the Second World War, the Jeep was a joint development by Willys-Overland, Bantam and Ford, with production being shared between Ford and Willys. The vehicles from both manufacturers were almost identical and used the Willys-designed 2.2-litre sidevalve Go-Devil engine, giving that distinctive sound that only a Jeep can make. The Jeep was the first truly practical four-wheel drive vehicle and was equipped with a three-speed synchromesh gearbox and two-speed transfer box. Hydraulic brakes were standard and a top speed of 65mph was on tap.

Production of the standard Jeep was 630,245 from late 1941 to the end of the war, split almost half-and-half between Ford and Willys, with the latter in the slight majority. Hugely popular with all ranks from Montgomery and Eisenhower down, the Jeep was treated like a go-anywhere sports car, with bucket seats, fold-flat windscreen, taut suspension and agile road-holding. The design looked right and was right and the Jeep has always had its admirers. Wartime examples are now highly collectible and an industry has mushroomed to supply any part required to restore and run them. Considering how many were made, it is amazing how few of them now survive.

A 'Museum of Army Transport' letter dates this particular Willys MB as a September 1943 model. Totally rebuilt around 15 years ago, it has seen little use since then, yet its owner has continued to look after the vehicle, with recent invoices totaling some £2,000. The vendor has, however, retained its originality including 6-volt electrics, the only departure from original being the fitment of discreet indicators. It is MOTd until November 2011.

Complete with strap-on tools, this Willys Jeep is one classic car that is ready to use and enjoy whatever the weather conditions.