Jeep Models by Year > Jeep Willys > Willys MA 1941

Willys MA 1941

The Willys MA 1941 stands as a remarkable milestone in the history of military vehicles. Designed specifically for the US Army during the Second World War, this vehicle played a crucial role in the Allied victory, and its legacy still resonates today. As the first mass-produced Jeep utilized by the US military, the Willys MA 1941 holds a special place in the annals of automotive history.

Developed by the American automaker Willys-Overland, the Willys MA 1941 was designed to meet the specific needs of the US Army, which required a reliable and versatile vehicle for military operations. The Jeep was designed to be lightweight and agile, making it ideal for navigating through rough terrain and difficult conditions. With its sturdy build and powerful engine, the Willys MA 1941 was able to traverse rugged landscapes, ford rivers, and climb steep hills, allowing it to reach areas that were previously inaccessible.

Here are some of the key features of the Willys MA 1941:

Engine Type

The Willys MA 1941 was powered by a 2.2-liter four-cylinder engine that produced 60 horsepower. The engine was capable of reaching a top speed of around 65 mph.

Transmission Type

The Willys MA 1941 had a three-speed manual transmission with a floor-mounted shifter. The transmission was synchronized in second and third gears, which made shifting easier.

Transfer Case

The Willys MA 1941 had a two-speed transfer case that allowed the driver to switch between two-wheel and four-wheel drive. The transfer case also had a low-range gear for increased torque in off-road situations.

Front Axle

The Willys MA 1941 had a Dana 25 front axle with a 4.88:1 gear ratio. The front axle was also equipped with locking hubs that allowed the driver to disengage the front wheels when not in four-wheel drive.

Rear Axle

The Willys MA 1941 had a Dana 23-2 rear axle with a 4.88:1 gear ratio. The rear axle was also equipped with a differential lock that allowed both rear wheels to turn at the same speed.

Other Features

The Willys MA 1941 had a 80-inch wheelbase and a ground clearance of 8.75 inches. It had a fuel capacity of 15 gallons and a range of around 300 miles. The vehicle was also equipped with a 6-volt electrical system and a 9-inch drum brake system.

Willys Quad 1940

Willys MB (1941-1945)