Jeeps are a passion of Vincent Koekemoer. A 40-year search for this particular Jeep Willys proves his dedication and commitment to fulfil his dream.
Koekemoer’s love of Willys began in his youth. He fondly remembers attending auctions where the military sold surplus vehicles, but couldn’t afford them. Years passed, and after giving up on his search for a while, the internet proved a game changer.
The first Willys and its restoration
In 2019, Koekemoer found a Willys in Cape Town. Unfortunately, it was in poor condition and had been modified. Undeterred, he spent three years and R60 000 meticulously restoring it to its original glory. This hands-on approach, fuelled by a love of tinkering, resulted in a stunning restoration using genuine parts.
From one Willys to four!
Koekemoer’s restored Willys turned heads at local car shows. He even received a tempting offer of R900 000 for it, but his passion outweighed any financial incentive. His dedication to the Willys continued when a farmer with two Willys wrecks on his property contacted him. Koekemoer agreed to restore one on the condition that he could keep the second.
Beyond restoration: A love of Willys history
This collector of Willys Jeeps isn’t just passionate about restoring these Jeeps; he’s also a history buff. He details the origins of these civilian models, their wartime production by Willys and Ford, and their post-war evolution with features like tailgates and power take-off for farm use.
A legacy that lives on: Jeep and the Willys spirit
Koekemoer’s story embodies the enduring legacy of the Willys. Jeep’s brand head, Janus van Rensburg, highlights how Jeep has evolved while staying true to its off-road DNA. He commends Koekemoer’s dedication, stating that it reflects the passion shared among many Jeep owners. He said his story exemplifies how Jeep vehicles inspire a love of adventure and how they have become a part of their owners’ journey.
Source: MotorPress
