1961 Willys Pickup 4X4

Description

This 1961 Willys Pickup is a distinct kind of classic. It keeps the vintage 4x4 attitude that is at the bedrock of Willys/Jeep, but it also updates the legend with V8 power, sleek paint, and a custom/comfy interior.

The tall lines, squared-off fenders, and vertical-slat grille all say "Jeep" so well that this feels like the Gladiator's granddaddy. But it also has its own style. These Willys pickups had a ribbed in their stamping to give them proper industrial strength. You see these lines so well thanks to well-fitting panels and a modern metallic blue that love to let the sunlight show off these purposeful groves. There are nice custom details that also add to the function, like the large XD wheels and the flow-through tailgate with the Willys Overland logo at the center. And while you may expect a wood bed in a classic truck, that's not right for a Willys. They used steel to be a proper workman, and the diamond plate floor here lets you tell that tale with pride. There's even a rugged steel rear bumper and a proper trailer hitch so that you can still get down to real truck work.

This custom attitude is heightened even further on the inside. It starts with the seating that has been upgraded to nicely bolstered individual buckets. There's also full carpeting, woodgrain door panels, and a suede-like headliner, so it's made to be more comfortable than your average 1960s pickup. And we love the Willys script carved into the panel in front of the drive. This truck also continues its nice versatile side with driver upgrades like a sports steering wheel, a tilt column, billet pedals, and separate water temp and tach readouts to supplement the classic large central gauge.

Under the hood is a terrific upgrade to a 350 cubic-inch Chevy V8. Not only is this small block substantially larger than the best you were getting from the best Willys, but this is also claimed (but unverified) to be a 383 stroker motor. Topped with a Quick Fuel four-barrel carburetor and an Edelbrock intake, this certainly has the right powerful feeling of a well-done small block. And you'll also appreciate good supporting components, like the electric fan and an Optima red top battery. The three-speed automatic transmission, power steering, power brakes, and front discs are nice cruiser-level features. But this Willys stays true to its industrial nature with a proper 4x4 setup that includes a two-speed transfer case, tall suspension, and Nitto Ridgegrappler tires.

A Willys pickup is a rare sight, and this one is the ideal mix of vintage and upgrades. This is versatility, rarity, and fun in one cool classic truck. Call today!!!