FORD JEEP

1944 Ford GPW Jeep.
Think of World War Two and the Jeep will be there somewhere - the two are synonymous, even though production didn’t begin in earnest until 1942. The vehicle’s evolution is complex, but resulted from the US army’s approach to 135 American automotive manufacturers to submit designs for ‘a general purpose personnel or cargo carrier especially adaptable for reconnaissance or command and designated as a ¼-ton 4x4 truck’. Willys won the resulting three-way tussle with Ford and Bantam, but by the Autumn of 1941 it was clear they could not satisfy demand, so Ford was tasked with manufacturing the vehicle in parallel. The Ford version was dubbed GPW (Government Passenger Willys) which, in contracted form, may have spawned the generic term Jeep (GP said slowly, sounds a bit like Jeep!). Weighing in at little more than a ton and equipped with a torquey L-headed 2.2-litre engine driving all four wheels via a three-speed manual box and two-speed transfer case, the tough, go anywhere Jeep did its job well, sparking a number of imitations – not least the original Land Rover, post-war. By the end of the war, close to 750,000 Jeeps had been produced. Many examples survive around the world and are regularly employed in film work, war games etc.
This smart Ford GPW Jeep has been UK road registered since 1967. Finished in US Army livery, the 4x4 is in very good condition with regards to its engine, transmission, electrical equipment, interior trim, bodywork and paintwork as it had been restored by a marque specialist. The jeep also comes with the correct tools, a jerry can are first aid box and US Army 'M1' helmet. Upon test drive this Ford Jeep drove just as she should and is ready for the coming show season having been used by the previous owner for over ten years for various events. Comes with a buff logbook and photos of the restoration. The ultimate Goodwood accessory. Absolutely any inspection is welcome. Viewing is highly recommended. All major debit cards accepted. UK mainland delivery included. Please call us for any further details. Find us, like and share on Facebook and Instagram @morseclassics