Chassis No.: MB232264

Engine No.: MB232264

Registration: RWX 707

Sold £25,168 | Sold

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.

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 exceptional 1943 example has been owned by the same couple since its import to the UK in 1994. Lovingly restored by a retired aircraft engineer for the 50th D-Day anniversary commemorations in France, the Jeep was restored from the ground up and reportedly ran without fault throughout the event. He later decided to restore it once again in 2017, again to take part in the D-Day anniversary commemorations and again, it ran without fault. Presented today better than new, it is by far the best example we have ever seen.

This wonderful MB Jeep comes with all of its accessories including its hood, side doors, hip doors, jerry can, axe and spade as well as photos of both restorations and it attending wartime events. Wanting for nothing, this excellent example is only for sale due to the sad passing of the vendor’s husband who carried out the remarkable restorations, as it is no longer getting any use.

Supplied with a V5C registration document together with photos of the restorations and events. Ideal for any military event, Goodwood Revival or simply popping to the pub, the quality of the restoration on this wonderful Jeep speaks for itself and is sure to attract attention wherever it goes.

https://www.historics.co.uk/auction/lot/?lot=1277&au=9