Willys MB and Ford GPW Jeeps are World War Two icons; machines that helped the Allies win and still very sought after classic 4x4s but, before buying you need to know what you are looking at
When they were initially made, Jeeps were officially described as “1/4-ton 4x4 trucks” by military users and the Willys MB and Ford GPW were the most common World War Two types.
Mass production means that they are also probably the most popular and accessible vehicle for military vehicle enthusiasts today. There are others including the Willys MA, Ford GP and American Bantam prototypes and the amphibious Ford GPA, but these are relatively rare and more specialised so won't be considered further in this buying guide.
Over the years, Jeeps have acquired legendary status as “the vehicle that won the war.” This claim isn’t entirely without merit, as the Jeep became ubiquitous in both the European and Pacific theatres of operations and was invented at the US military’s behest at the beginning of the conflict. Noted US war correspondent Ernie Pyle wrote: “I don’t think we could continue the war without the Jeep. It does everything. It goes everywhere. It’s as faithful as a dog, as strong as a mule and as agile as a goat.”
