For Sale: 1961 Willys Jeep in Mesa, Arizona

For most of us the classic car world is about standing out with some attitude, and it doesn't get more custom or unique than this. After all, a 1961 Willys Wagon is already going to draw a crowd, but when it has been custom built with a strong V8, Bluetooth radio, and handy everyday features, then you're almost guaranteed to be the coolest custom everywhere you go.


The handsome, upright wagon body says Jeep as clearly as a CJ, and it's a familiar face all over the world. But this icon is also instantly recognizable as something extra special. The teal paint has a nice hint of metallic to really let the sunshine highlight all the ribbed details that came in the panel stamping (they were originally for strength, but now just increase the cool factor.) The streak of white down the side has a classic look, and the full-length trim that borders it looks as stylish as a 1950s Chevy. Plus, the white roof completes a proper two-tone presentation. Newer headlights, bright bumpers, pliable window rubber, and clean glass all contribute to the quality presentation. The upgraded wheels and bright dual exhaust tips suggest a healthy upgrade in power. And the proper trailer hitch reminds you that a good Willys/Jeep also uses its extra muscle to get more jobs done.


The worlds of classic and modern continue to merge inside. There are cool vintage pieces, like two rows of asymmetrical split benches, wood door panels, and a thin/grippy dual-spoke steering wheel with Willy logo at the center. We especially love the wooden floor slats used to make the ribbed metal pan stamping a flatter surface. They also make it easy to slide any cargo in and out of the split tailgate. The classic Willys gauge panel puts the speedometer in the center of the dash, but now it's joined by upgraded AutoMeter auxiliary readouts for all your essential info. And because this is built to be a better cruiser, you'll be really happy to see the full upgraded stereo system with an AM/FM receiver that has USB and Bluetooth. It connects to upgraded speakers to make sure you have the right driving music no matter if you use this for a surf wagon or a tailgater.


There's no replacement for displacement, so you'll love to lift the hood and see a Chevy small-block V8. This 350 cubic-inch unit is more than 50 percent larger than the original motor offered in this wagon. And the upgrades don't end there. It has added power from a Holley four-barrel carb and Weiand intake. This also has the right supporting pieces, like Accel coil, good belts, Milodon oil pan, and a Champion aluminum radiator. It fires up readily and the dual exhaust has a great V8 tune. The three-speed manual transmission gives you good control over the upgraded power. Plus, you have power disc brakes up front, traction bars in the rear, and modern cruising tires all around.


This is a custom build with rarity, power, and distinction. You'll make people smile just by showing up, and this will make you smile every time you turn the key. It's easy to get everything you want, just call today!