Beschreibung:

The Willys MB U.S. Army Jeep and the Ford GPW Jeep were manufactured from 1941 to 1945 and are considered the iconic World War II Jeep and inspired many similar light-utility vehicles. With America enduring difficult economic times, the U.S. Army instigated a program to modernise its fleet with a 'general purpose, personnel or cargo carrier' especially adaptable for reconnaissance or command and designated as a ¼-tonne, 4x4 truck. Ford Motor Company, American Bantam Car Company and Willys-Overland Motors all competed for the government contract and American Bantam were the initial winners of the bid. However, the U.S. government were keen on standardisation and Willys' production capacity eventually won them the contract. Towards the end of 1941, Willys' facilities could not keep up with demand, so Ford were contracted to produce the Jeep under licence in addition through to the end of World War II. From 1942 to 1945, Willys produced over 360,000 Jeeps and parts used on Willys' MB Jeeps and Ford GPW Jeeps are completely interchangeable mechanically. This Willys MB is a genuine wartime vehicle, manufactured in 1942. In 2008, it underwent a total nut-and-bolt rebuild; restoration work included a new engine and radiator, rebuilt transmission with all new parts, rebuilt axles, all new braking system including the fitment of a servo and silicone brake fluid, new tyres, new body painted in two-pack paint, new canvas seats, a summer top and new 12-volt electric system. As a concession to modern road conditions, halogen headlamps were fitted and indicators discreetly fitted into the blackout lights to preserve the original looks. Once the restoration was completed, the Jeep went to Normandy in France in 2009 and covered 586 trouble-free miles. Recently, 626 XUW has been owned and cared for as part of a small collection; the vendor states that it is "a real pleasure to drive and very confidence-inspiring on modern day roads with its uprated braking system".