1957 Willys Wagon

Description

After taking America to war in Europe, Willys came back and made the military Jeep a household name with the Jeepster and its many derivatives. This 1957 Willys wagon is a great example of the utility, style, and rugged character that they built for a market clamoring for new vehicles and fresh ideas. But under the skin, it's fully updated with V8 power, an independent front suspension, and all the modern conveniences.

The handsome, upright wagon body says Jeep as loudly as any modern CJ, and it's instantly recognized the world over. Restored just a few years ago, it remains in very nice condition, and has come from a collection where it was obviously very well maintained. The finish is nearly show-quality and makes this handsome wagon stand out not just for being unusual, but also for being gorgeous. It has a lovely gloss that looks entirely appropriate on the mini SUV's bodywork, and the colors work rather well, preserving the vintage look bug making it much more appealing. The recessed panels on the bodywork don't just simulate the conventional woody styling, but also strengthen the bodywork, making this a sturdy little trucklet that can do a lot more than you'd guess at first glance. It also offers nice chrome bumpers, tinted glass, and little else that would suggest there's serious firepower hiding underneath.

You'll find that the interior has been upgraded far beyond the basic little appliance it was in 1957. Power leather bucket seats, a custom center console, and a tilt steering column are all nods to comfort that the original lacked, and it's remarkable just how right everything looks in there. Custom side panels, door upholstery, and a rear bench make it feel luxurious and help control noise and heat, so this Willys is now a first-class cross-country traveler. Upgrades like A/C, a powerful AM/FM/CD stereo system, and a full set of VDO gauges in the center of the ash make it feel very modern from behind the wheel. On the other hand, you still have things like the upright windshield in front of you, so it feels vintage at the same time. The rear compartment is fully upholstered and offers speakers so it's ideal for tailgating or road trips.

Performance was given a massive upgrade in the form of a 350 cubic inch Chevy V8. The original 4-cylinder (or optional 6-cylinder) engine had modest performance, but this V8 makes the Willys feel like a legitimate hot rod. Of course it's got a 4-barrel carburetor, a matching aluminum intake manifold, and a wonderful dual exhaust system that is about the only thing that gives away this Willys' secrets. The accessories are tucked in tight to the block and it uses a giant radiator up front to keep everything nice and cool. Underneath there's a Mustang II independent front suspension, a 700R4 4-speed automatic overdrive transmission, and a Ford 9-inch rear end that combine to make this a fantastic highway cruiser. The engine has less than 2500 miles on the build, so it's still quite fresh and with power steering and power front disc brakes, it's as easy to drive as a modern SUV. Classic Weld Drag Lite II wheels give it some flash, and the modest 215/75/15 blackwall tires are exactly right for the serious little truck.

Back to basics was never as much fun as in this Willys wagon. You'll appreciate its easy maintenance, utility, and especially the smile it brings to everyone's face when they see it on the road. Call today!