The Jeep

One of the first production Jeeps that was built. A very very rare Jeep, the chassis number of 102522, dates the build November 1941.

The manufacturer's name, stamped in bold script, is found on the left rear side of the back panel. Early models lack a trailer light socket, Jerrycan carrier, as these features were introduced only in early to mid-1943. Due to the stamped name on the rear panel, both early Ford and Willys Jeeps are commonly referred to as "script Jeeps."

In June 1941, Willys delivered 1,500 units of their Willys MA to the military. Following extensive testing, development began on what would become the Willys MB. Production of the MB started on November 19, 1941, and these early models are now referred to as "slat grille" Jeeps.

Willys later updated the design to the more familiar stamped grille, replacing the original slat grill, which consisted of several steel bars welded together and proved to be costly. The stamped grill, which became standard, was actually a Ford design.

By the end of slat grille production in early March 1942, 25,808 of these Jeeps had been built. Known as "Slatties," these early models differ from the standard Willys MB in several key ways. Slatties did not come with gloveboxes (as you can see with our Jeep) until the very end of February 1942, making those few later models with gloveboxes quite rare.

The fire extinguisher was originally located on the right side of the footwell but was moved to the left once gloveboxes were introduced. Additionally, Slatties lacked blackout lights on the driver's side wing. As you can see, on Jeep, the extinguisher is on the right hand side, and there is no blackout light. Perfectly correct.

The fuel tank sump on slat grille Jeeps was square, except for those built under the Canadian contract (2,000 units). These early models also lacked eye rings on the pintle hook and did not have a support bracket for the spare tire. The dashboard’s most noticeable feature is the fuel gauge, which is labeled "GAS" instead of "FUEL." In the engine compartment, you'll find the distinctive "pancake-style" air filter. Our slat grille has a beautiful post war engine, with a WW2 WILLYS head, and hums like a sewing machine, a testament to the engineer who rebuilt it. The gearbox is also rebuilt.

The battery tray is a two-piece design, and the engine does not have the "WILLYS" name cast on the cylinder head. The fuel tank has a small nozzle for the filler hole. Notably, the propshafts are thin, unlike the later "fat" type, and the gearbox has only one filler plug.

These features distinguish slat grille Jeeps from the later stamped grille models. Due to their rarity, slat grill Jeeps command higher prices and their specialised parts can be harder and more expensive to find. Approximately 2,000 slat grill Jeeps in various conditions still exist today.

They can be a savvy investment with increasing values. A well-restored slat grille Jeep is truly eye-catching.

Our slattie comes with everything you see, the pioneer tools, duck boards, canvas and the pleasure of owning a fantastic piece of history. What we all love about Jeeps that are from WW2, you can add or take away what you want, you can always add more accessories or take them off. They all drive differently and all have their own quirks, you soon get used to them. You can make them up with any unit marking that you see fit.

They are cheap to insure, they are tax and MOT except as they are an historic vehicle.

The one thing all Jeeps have in common, they will give you a lifetime of fun and pleasure.

Our collection is stored securely and warmly at one of The Wheatcroft Collections facilities and shares this space with some unique vehicles. Our preferred parts supplier for our Jeeps is Jeeparts-UK those most efficient and friendly service in the country.

100% guaranteed draw - there will be no extensions!

Free delivery to anywhere within the UK.

Specification

  • Engine: Petrol 2.2 Ltr
  • Wheelbase: 203 cm
  • Length: 336 cm
  • Height: 177 cm
  • Road weight: 1,112 kg
  • Ground clearance: 22 cm
  • Maximum speed 50 MPH
  • Maximum fording depth: 53 cm

FAQs

For all our FAQs please click here.

How are the tickets issued?

HistoriaDraw randomly assigns ticket numbers nightly by 10pm and posts them on the website for full transparency. You are also emailed a link to view them well before the live draw.

How is the draw made?

We use Google's random number generator to select the winning number, and this is all presented live on Facebook Live. Can’t make the live draw? The video from the draw will be posted to our website following the live event, and you will be notified if you win.

When do the live draws take place?

The live draws are conducted on Facebook Live and YouTube at times and dates announced on our website, via email, and on Facebook. You can find our Facebook Page [here](#). Be sure to follow us and turn on notifications so you are alerted about the competition draws.

Didn’t find your answer?

Don't hestitate to contact us