Check out this cute little children’s car by East Coast Mini Classics, which is based on the US Army Willys Jeep from World War II
The World War II-era Willys Jeep is one of the most iconic vehicles of all time. After the war, the vehicle became a collectors’ item, and restored examples sit in the garages of many petrolheads around the world. US-based RM Sotheby’s has something that takes the original Willys Jeep design, but offers it an extremely cute package – a children’s car!
This US Army Jeep children’s car has been built by East Coast Mini Classics of Sanford, Maine, US, and is currently being auctioned. This isn’t just a simple toy though, but a proper miniature replica, complete with an all-steel body on a welded tube frame. The design is based on the 1941-1945 Military MB/GPW, and it looks lovely.
The vehicle is powered by a 13-HP Honda engine, which gets an electric start and a hydrostatic drive with reverse. The mini Jeep also features a rack and pinion steering, working suspension on all wheels, full-floating rear axle with aluminium differential, dual hydraulic disc brakes with an emergency parking brake, a fully functioning lighting system, a heavy-duty oil-cooling system, and a stainless steel exhaust.
Other features on offer include a functional Warn winch, a one-inch trailer hitch receiver, and an optional spare tire. A few authentic military surplus accessories are also included, like storage pouches, canteens, and even Jerry cans. The vehicle also gets a 20 amp alternator and a maintenance-free battery.
The mini Jeep gets a padded bench seat, and the interior design of the vehicle has the same old-school charm as the original model, complete with a barebones dashboard. We’re extremely impressed with the craftsmanship that went into building this model.
The bidding for the vehicle is set to close soon, with the current bid standing at USD 11,000 (around INR 8.07 lakh), while the asking price for it is USD 11,500 (~ INR 8.45 lakh). This fully-functioning mini replica is absolutely adorable, and if you’re planning to develop a taste for classic cars in your children, this would be the perfect tool to do it.
