1960 Willys Surrey

In the years following the Second World War, few names carried the same universal recognition as Jeep. Born on the battlefields of Europe and the Pacific, the rugged little Willys had become a mechanical symbol of freedomits squat stance, flat fenders, and indefatigable nature forever tied to victory and perseverance. When peacetime arrived, Willys wasted no time converting its wartime hero into a civilian success story. The CJ, or Civilian Jeep, quickly became a farmhand, a forester, and a faithful companion for rugged outdoor use. Yet even as it proved its mettle in Americas fields and forests, Willys recognized that not every customer wanted mud on their tires. There was room in the lineup for something lighter, friendlier, and infinitely more fun.

That opportunity arrived in 1959 with the debut of the Willys DJ-3A Surrey Gala, a whimsical, resort-ready interpretation of the classic Jeep formula. Originally inspired by fleets of brightly painted Jeeps used to shuttle guests around Henry J. Kaisers tropical resorts, the Surrey traded its military toughness for pure joie de vivre. Out went the olive drab, in came cheerful pastels, candy-colored stripes, and a playful surrey top fringed like a carnival tent. Mechanically, it remained pure Willyssimple, reliable, and endlessly charmingbut aesthetically, it was a revolution. Suddenly, the Jeep had gone from G.I. issue to island icon.

The example offered here is a delightful 1960 Surrey, finished in the quintessential pink-on-white livery that became synonymous with this models carefree personality. Striped seats, a matching fringed top, and bright accents give it the unmistakable aura of midcentury leisure. Once part of the noted Wayne Davis collection and more recently cherished within a private collection for over a decade, this Surrey presents today as a well-loved older restoration that has mellowed gracefully with time. The finish shows gentle signs of agejust enough to lend authenticity without detracting from its appeal.

Its presentation captures the spirit of a genuine drivers carrefined yet approachable, ideal for leisurely cruises around a seaside town or within a collection that values both mechanical honesty and cheerful presentation. The paint retains an even gloss, and the body displays good fit and finish throughout, with the simple, upright lines of the DJ-3A body lending it the air of a toy brought to life. Chrome bumpers, a full set of hubcaps, and whitewall tires complete the look, perfectly complementing its playful pastel scheme.

Inside, the cabin maintains the same exuberant charm. The striped pink-and-white upholstery echoes the exteriors theme, while the white steering wheel and simple dash layout remind one of the Surreys roots as a utilitarian vehicle made over for pleasure. The surrey top, complete with its signature fringe, remains in fine condition and continues to set the tone for the entire carplayful, optimistic, and utterly unique.

Power comes from Willys stalwart 134.2-cubic-inch F-head Hurricane four-cylinder, paired with a three-speed manual gearbox driving the rear wheels. With just over 60 horsepower on tap, its not quick, but it is endlessly willing, chugging along happily with the same honesty that endeared the Jeep to generations of drivers. Under the hood, the engine bay retains a tidy and largely correct appearanceits simplicity a testament to Willys design philosophy. This Surrey runs and drives well, the mechanical components benefitting from careful maintenance and occasional exercise while in long-term enthusiast ownership.

In the broader tapestry of automotive history, the Willys Surrey stands out as one of the most distinctive postwar reinterpretations of a wartime design. Its bright colors, striped canopy, and endearing character made it a favorite at beach resorts, golf clubs, and island retreats across the world. From Acapulco to Waikiki, the sight of a Surrey pulling up to a hotel portico became shorthand for midcentury glamour and lighthearted luxury.

Today, few examples survive in such appealing condition. Many were used hard, left out in the elements, or simply worn away by decades of seaside service. This examples older, high-quality restoration has aged with dignity, offering a balance between preservation and usability that makes it a joy to own and drive.

Equal parts conversation piece and collectors item, this 1960 Willys Surrey remains one of the most delightful expressions of postwar American optimism. It invites smiles wherever it goeswhether displayed alongside serious classics or pressed into casual summer duty. More practical than a Fiat Jolly and no less charming, it captures a uniquely American sense of fun: a spirit of sunshine, simplicity, and endless adventure.

Offers welcome and trades considered.