In 1940, Ford, Willys-Overland, and the tiny Bantam Company, of Pennsylvania, all submitted designs for a light, sturdy four-wheel drive reconnaissance vehicle. Surprisingly, the Bantam version was best received; however, the Army Quartermasters could see that Bantam didn't have the financial strength or manufacturing capacity to produce the quantities demanded by the military. An initial order for 1,500 from each manufacturer quickly followed and, after further evaluation, the Willys product was selected. The Army, however, proposed awarding the contract to Ford, based upon its much larger production capacity.

As a result Ford manufactured the Jeeps and the vehicles were designated GPW, for "General Purpose Willys".

The Jeep offered here has just been the recipient of a "no expense spared" body off restoration by a marque expert and is now offered in stunning condition throughout. The detail lavished on the restoration is immediately apparent upon inspection of the vehicle and it is hard to imagine a better example would be available for sale anywhere.

Year:1943





Colour:Military Green





Transmission:Manual





Steering:LHD





Engine size:2199cc