With all of the we've spent talking about detailing the Willys and the unique features of these specialty vehicles, we know that some people who are less familiar with the Willys name don't know about some of the storied history behind these vehicle models. So let’s talk about that a little bit, because it really is an amazing story.
The Early Days
John Willys bought the Overland Automotive division from Standard Wheel Company in 1912, and the idea of the Willys Jeep was born (or at least, the groundwork was laid.)
The resulting commercial effort was second only to Ford in production of vehicles from 1912 to 1918, but that's not the end of the story -not by a long shot!
The War Years
Students of history know all about the threat posed to America and the world by the Nazi regime in Germany, and its allies in Japan and Italy. Winning some important government military bids in World War II, Willys produced the Willys MB from 1941 to 1945.
Diehard Willys fans are familiar with a lot of the stories around the military use of the MB. We actually sell parts and accessories for these historic vehicles, as part of the legacy of America's legendary involvement in “big II.”
As MBs thundered across wartime areas, the world breathed a sigh of relief as the global expansionist plans of the Axis powers were contained.
Commercial Production
After the war, Willys didn't stop supplying American ingenuity to the market.
Models like the postwar CJ2A were non-military vehicles familiar on the back roads of rural America.
Introducing early four-wheel-drive technology, these vehicles were abundantly important to farmers and ranchers and others doing the tough jobs during the second half of the 20th century.
And now we come to today. These vehicles are now historic antiques with exceptional historic value.
We have the full range of parts and accessories to help you keep your Willys jeep in good condition for the garage and the auto show and anywhere else that it may end up.
Think about how these vehicles play their part in the American automotive business down through the ages, and how you can partner with an excellent e-commerce auto portal to preserve your own bit of history. We have everything you need – check out the site and let us know if you have any questions about how to outfit your unique set of wheels.