• Year: 1945
• Mileage: 710
• Primary color: Maroon
• Transmission type: 3 Speed Manual
• Engine: 4 cylinder

This 1945 Willys Jeep CJ2A has great color coordination and barely 700 miles on it since its full mechanical rebuild, but really know why you're stopping to check this one out. It's hard not to get excited about driving the bedrock of freedom, especially when it's this affordable.
The tough little Jeep was so good at its military life that Willys knew it could be a returning soldier's best friend when he returned home. After all, the same tough construction and go anywhere ability could find a nice use on the farm or jobsite. The CJ2A was the first Willys Jeep used for peacetime duty (CJ = Civilian Jeep), but you can easily see its armed forces origins on this early example. Thinly veiled with proper headlights and a tailgate, it's the same basic style that brought victory in World War II. An icon like this doesn't need a makeover, but the addition of Maroon paint really does add some nice distinction without altering the appearance. Even the chrome bumper and bright hood pins offer a style upgrade without making this hero appear too flashy. The current owner has had the vehicle for 13 years. During that time it has been restored and always garage kept. And it's this level of respect and care that's the true key to why this Jeep looks so spectacular today.
The Jeep was most certainly not built for long haul comfort, but that doesn't mean there weren't some considerations given during restoration. The maroon seats do a fine job of matching the unique exterior paint, which is also now the color of the steering wheel, trim, and dash. Rubber floor mats keep your gear from sliding around too much in the foot wells and in the rear cargo area. The full gauge package is clear, easy to read, and quite frankly, offers much more info than most other vehicles did in the '40s. You'll note three levers on the floor, one for the three-speed manual transmission and the other two for the two-speed transfer case. The middle one selects 2 or 4-wheel drive, while the one on the far right selects high and low ranges. If that seems confusing, the original instructions are mounted on the dash. Cool, right?
These weren't about all-out power, but the 134 cubic-inch inline-four was actually a big reason why the military choose Willys for manufacturing the wartime Jeep. The Go Devil motor proved to provide good torque and was as reliable as an American solider. Heavy-duty features include the oil bath air cleaner and a big oil filter canister on the side of the engine block, both critical for longevity in the field. When this drivetrain was rebuilt 13 years ago, everything was believed to be original. Since then, there has only been 710 miles on the Jeep. So today this CJ2A fires up easily, idles nicely, and shifts with accuracy. The chassis remains exceptionally clean, and the oversized hubs on the sturdy axles are designed to keep the Jeep alive in the worst of situations. Steel wheels with reproduction military-style tires provide the finishing touch for just the right look.
The significance of this icon is easily seen just simply in how its descendants are still on sale today. Thanks to a conscientious restoration, sliding behind the wheel of this tough little retuning GI is like taking a trip to one of the most ambitious periods in our history. This true American hero is ready for its next patriot. Call today!!!

• 4610 Pet Lane, Suite 105,
  Lutz, FL, 33559, US
• (813) 501-1630
• sales-tpa@streetsideclassics.com

• http://www.streetsideclassics.com
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