1945 Ford GPW

Description

General Dwight D. Eisenhower is often quoted as saying that the jeep was one of the most crucial tools for the Allied victory in World War II. He reportedly said, “The jeep, the Dakota airplane, and the landing craft were the three tools that won the war.” 

Demand was so great for the jeep (technically the Willys MB), that Ford Motor Company began building their own version under license, the Ford GPW. According to the Lyon Air Museum in Santa Ana, California, the name stands for, G: Government contract, P: 80-inch wheelbase, and W: Willys design. Both featured a 134.2 cu-in, 60-horsepower Willys "Go Devil" engine, which provided the necessary power and reliability for various military operations. The vehicle’s rugged construction and four-wheel drive made it ideal for a wide range of tasks, from transporting troops and equipment to serving as an ambulance or command vehicle. While parts are interchangeable between the MB and the GPW, there are slight differences. Ford produced over 277,000 GPWs during the war, making up nearly half of the total jeeps manufactured. 

This historic Ford GPW was built on 10 May 1945 and is finished in correct U.S. Navy colors and markings for service in Great Britain. 

Highlights 

• Offered from The Carolina Collection 

• World War II era Ford GPW 

• Willys F4-134 ​​134.2 cu-in inline four-cylinder engine  

• Three-speed manual transmission  

• Dana 25 front and Dana 44 rear axles with two-speed transfer case 

Features 

• Outfitted with correct accessories including: 

  • Siren 

  • “Pioneer tools” (shovel and ax) 

  • Five-gallon “Jerry Can” spare fuel container 

  • Spare tire and wheel 

  • Blackout headlamp 

• Correct “knobby” Firestone non-directional tires 

• Folding windshield 

• Rifle carrier on dashboard 

• Hand engine crank at rear 

• Trailer hitch and hookup 

Known Imperfections 

• This 1945 Ford GPW is presented as a finely restored example and is said to be free from any substantial imperfections  

Included 

• Shovel and ax 

• Five-gallon “Jerry Can” spare fuel container 

• Spare tire and wheel 

• Mechanic’s bag  

• Fire extinguisher  

• Grease gun 

Ownership History 

This 1945 Ford GPW 1/4-ton 4x4 was commissioned for World War II service in Great Britain, with the DOD (date of delivery) stamped 10 May 1945. Many years later, the vehicle was discovered on a farm in Virginia and was purchased by a prominent North Carolina classic car collector. Upon research, it was found that the vehicle had been used specifically by the U.S. Navy in England and was subsequently restored. It joined The Carolina Collection in 2024. 

Additional Notes 

A Broad Arrow Auctions Specialist is working as an agent on behalf of the owner of this vehicle. Broad Arrow Auctions is a wholly owned subsidiary of Hagerty.  

Contact: Donnie Gould   Phone: 954.647.0779    email: dgould@hagerty.com