1939 Willys Model 48

The Willys-Knight was the most popular - and enduring - of all sleeve-valve engine-powered cars built in the United States. The Willys-Overland Company introduced its Knight engine-powered car in 1915 and production continued through 1933.

John North Willys was president of the corporation until his death in 1935. Prior to Willys, he had been president of the Overland Company. A six-cylinder of sleeve valve design powered the various models of Willys-Knight. Although other engines were used in many models the sleeve valve was the motor of choice of Mr. Willys. The company built many models, among them, Willys Six and Whippet. The acquisition of Stearns-Knight of Cleveland introduced the Falcon-Knight and Stearns-Knight models in 1925. The Willys 77's was developed to help bolster the sagging sales in 1933 and all other models were dropped. The 77 was designed as an economy car to compete with the American Austin. The 77 was renamed Overland in 1939 and later became the Americar in 1941 and was produced until 1942.

During World War II, Willys and Ford Motors produced the Jeep. They are still
being produced by Chrysler-Daimler Motors.

By Daniel Vaughan | Jun 2011