The coronavirus pandemic may have ground the automotive industry to a halt, as manufacturers face the prospect of shuttered factories and empty dealerships, but the collector car market seems to be, if anything, building momentum. Blame the trend on the fact that online auction websites like Bring a Trailer have popularized the medium or perhaps on the fact that rich people just don't seem to suffer through crises like the rest of humanity.
Either way, companies like Barrett-Jackson have transferred to online auctions hoping to keep their product flowing. And few products are likely to draw the kind of wide, enthusiastic grins as this custom 1941 Willys Americar Coupe.
Fully Built
While the car's distinct exterior profile, perfect stance, and paint job featuring flames atop a "House of Kolor Shimrin True Blue" body, under the hood lies the main attraction. Well, under the hood is merely an idiom in this case, as the engine pokes out well above the hoodline, revealing intakes for the supercharger bolted onto a 392ci Hemi lurking beneath. Power is routed to the rear wheels through a three-speed automatic transmission and a Strange nine-inch rear differential. The powertrain is complemented by an Art Morrison tube chassis equipped with independent front suspension, disc brakes all around, rack-and-pinion steering, and adjustable coilovers at all four corners.
Finishing Touches
This Willys hot rod is currently live for bidding. The interior continues the theme of blue paint and flames, including custom leather upholstery and carpeting. Modern touches include a polished, tilting steering column, air conditioning, power windows, and a Pioneer sound system. A classic Hurst pistol grip shifter sets off the whole look and represents a finishing touch on a build that comes together perfectly from the largest to the smallest detail.
Source: Barrett-Jackson