Ghost-Flamed 1941 Willys Coupe Is A Show-Ready Hot Rod

Willys-Overland might be best known for the Jeeps that it built, but hot rodders know this defunct automaker for a totally different reason: the Willys Americar. Just like Fords and Chevys from this era, the Americar – aka the Willys Coupe – was very popular in the hot rod community, and this stunning example is a perfect reason why. If you're looking for a hot rod that is tasteful and modern, then you'll want to check out this 1941 Willys Coupe that GAA Classic Cars will be putting up for auction November 7-9.

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The Willys Coupe was a hot-rodding favorite thanks to a beautiful design and a horrible powertrain. These cars came from the factory with a notoriously unreliable four-cylinder Go Devil engine, but that was easily solved with an engine swap. Under this car's long hood sits a Chevy small-block 350 CID V8 mated to a TH400 four-speed automatic transmission sending power to the rear tires through a 10-bolt Ford rear end. This drivetrain combination will ensure perfect comfort and reliability when cruising or showing, which is made even better with the Mustang II front end, power front disc brakes and rack and pinion power steering.

Of course, the engine is only part of what makes a true hot rod; it has to look cool, too! Even before customization, the Willys Coupe definitely has a cool, distinct style to it with the tall hood, massive fenders and the long, tapered rear end. The bright yellow paint job is an obvious eye-catcher, but looking closer reveals amazingly detailed ghost flames on the hood and front fenders. A touch of chrome and a sharp set of Boyd Coddington wheels (16 inches up front and 18 inches in the rear) add a little extra pop to the car's flashy design.

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Inside, this '41 Willys is equally nice with a fully custom and show-ready interior that is tasteful and modern with the yellow paint carried over into the cabin and two-tone leather on the seats. Power windows and air conditioning put the finishing touches on this cruiser's cabin. No show-worthy hot rod would be complete without a finished trunk, and this Willys Coupe doesn't disappoint there either.

Everywhere you look, this Willys hot rod is flawless, and it would be the perfect addition to any collection.