This model maintained the chassis of the previous CJ3A, maintaining an 80-inch wheelbase. However, it was already equipped with the new Hurricane F-134 engine, featuring overhead intake valves and producing 72 HP.
The CJ3A body was modified to accommodate the taller engine by raising the height of both the grille and the bonnet. It quickly became known as the “high hood” Jeep.
Although designed as a transitional model, it remained in production until 1968, virtually unchanged and produced in parallel with the CJ5, which was introduced in 1955.
It was also built under licence in several countries, such as Japan, Spain, India and France. The production in the United States reached 155,494 units.
This also led to the development of a military version, the M606, intended for export.
The unit on display was originally sold on mainland Portugal and came to Madeira in the 1990s. It has never undergone a full restoration.
As a point of interest, it is one of the last units produced with a 6-volt electrical system and is fitted with a Ramsey mechanical winch, which was an optional extra at the time.
Datasheet Year: 1959 Brand: Jeep Model: Willys CJ3B Country: United States of America Number plate: BD-85-82 Engine: 2199 cc Gearbox: 3, manual Owner: Rui Cirilo