502-Powered 1941 Willys Coupe Street Rod

Description

Introduced in the early 1940s, the Willys Coupe earned its place in automotive history as a lightweight, utilitarian design that became a favorite among hot rodders in the postwar era. Its compact proportions and simple construction made it an ideal canvas for performance modifications, and by the 1960s, Willys Coupes were dominating the gasser scene—cementing their reputation as icons of American custom culture. Today, these cars remain highly sought after by enthusiasts for their distinctive silhouette and endless potential for personalization.

This 1941 Willys Coupe takes that legacy to the extreme as an outlaw-style built by JJ Rods (formally J&R Street Rods) of Newark, Ohio. It rides on an Outlaw Performance frame and fiberglass body finished in Purple Metallic with subtle ghost flames. Under the hood, a GM RamJet 502ci V8 crate engine, adorned in brightwork, is paired with a TCI-built 4L60E transmission.

Modern amenities elevate drivability, including power steering, power windows, power disc brakes, and Vintage Heat & A/C. The chassis features a four-link, Ford 9-inch Yukon Posi rear, paired with Mustang II front suspension and an Air Ride Technologies system for adjustability. Inside, a handcrafted brown leather interior by Vos Upholstery of Cedar Lake, Indiana—a claimed $20,000 investment—sets the tone for luxury with custom stitching and a suede headliner.

Located in St. Louis, Missouri, this highly-customized 1941 Willys Coupe is now offered with various invoices and receipts documenting the build and a clean Illinois title in the seller’s name.

Highlights

• Outlaw Performance frame and fiberglass body, built by JJ Rods

• GM RamJet 502ci V8 crate engine

• TCI-built 4L60E automatic transmission

• Finished in Purple Metallic paint with subtle ghost flames

• Custom saddle brown leather and suede interior by Vos Upholstery

• Power steering, power windows, power disc brakes, Vintage Heat & A/C

Modifications

• Four-link rear suspension with narrowed Ford 9” rear end, 4.30 gears, and Yukon Posi unit

• Mustang II front suspension with tubular A-arms; full Air Ride Technologies system with interior-mounted controller

• VDO instrumentation, 120-mph speedometer, 7,000-rpm tachometer, oil pressure, water temperature, voltage, and fuel

• Custom Willys chrome valve covers and March Performance pulley system

• Detailed and polished undercarriage

• Staggered 15” Colorado Custom Billet Mystic wheels:

  • 205/60/R15 Multi-mile Matrix Tour RS front tires

  • 29x18.50R15LT Hoosier Pro Street rear tires

Documentation

The seller states: “That the car was finished about two years ago, and it comes with a large stack of receipts documenting the build."

Known Imperfections

• Some smaller paint chips are noted by the seller

Ownership History

Commissioned and built by JJ Rods (formally J&R Street Rods) of Newark, Ohio, the current owner acquired this custom Willys Coupe post-build.

Included Items

• Various invoices and receipts documenting the build

• Air Ride Technologies suspension controller

• Key fob (controls main functions)

Additional Notes

The seller states: “This Willys is the ultimate statement piece—every detail was executed without compromise. It’s a showstopper that drives as good as it looks.”