1918 Willys-Overland Model 90

Description

Folks forget that in the early days of motoring, there were more cars than just the Model T. This handsome 1918 Overland Model 90 is far more advanced, powerful, rugged, and stylish than the venerable T, all for a price that's about the same. If you like the idea of primitive machines that still work as intended, this Overland is a great find.

With just two owners and a history that goes back to day one, this is a special car. It's not quite original enough to be called a survivor, as it was repainted at some point, probably in the 1950s. Nevertheless, it has great patina that seems to work especially well on vehicles from the early 20th century. It's a substantial car, far bigger than a Model T, but you don't realize that until you're right next to it. Basic black was a popular color that still looks great, but on a relatively upscale Overland, you could probably choose from a bigger color palette. White pinstripes highlight the shapes of the fenders, hood, and doors, really dressing the car up and calling attention to its many wonderful curves. With what we believe to be just 7729 original miles, you know the body is in remarkable shape, and that's important on something with a wooden superstructure. The late-teens weren't big on brass or nickel trim, so most of it is painted to match the body, although you do get a moto-meter on the radiator and a single taillight out back.

The interior has probably been restored as well, and it uses correct patterns and materials to duplicate the original look. The wide bench seats are comfortable and offer a commanding view of the road, while the floors are basic wood planks, and yes, that's how it came originally (although they probably would have been covered in linoleum of some sort). A fat wooden steering wheel provides plenty of leverage to maneuver the tall front wheels and the control layout is a twist on today's setup, with the throttle being between the brake and clutch. Gauges cover the basics and there's a beautiful clock over on the passenger's side, showing that artistry mattered even when the transportation was basic. Rear seat space is expansive and there are useful map pockets on the doors and a robe rail behind the front seat.

The Overland uses a 179 cubic inch four-cylinder engine that makes somewhere around 30 horsepower. Now that may not seem like a lot, but with clever gearing and lots of low-end torque, it feels peppy around town and happily cruises at about 35 MPH, so it's not a rolling roadblock. The engine is quite sophisticated for the time, using a familiar distributor ignition system and a vacuum tank to deliver fuel to the carburetor. Starters and generators were still a relatively recent invention in 1918, and the big generator/starter unit is combined with the water pump on the driver's side of the engine. The transmission is a typical 3-speed manual that needs little more than a quick double-clutch between gears and the buggy-spring suspension is designed for the rough roads of the time but still feels smooth today. Brakes are rear-wheel only, so plan your stops accordingly, and it stands proud on those wood-spoke wheels and proper blackwall tires.

We hope the fans of these cars will continue to keep the torch burning, because there's just so much fun to be had in this Overland's simplicity. Call today!