1940 Willys Coupe Gasser
355ci V8 - 5-Speed Manual - All Steel - Hand-painted Graphics - Signed by Big Daddy Don Garlits and K.S. Pittman
| Lot # | 0282 |
|---|---|
| Location | Palmetto, FL 34221 |
| Seller | Dealer |
 |
52072 |
 |
355ci V8 |
 |
5-Speed Manual |
 |
Black |
 |
Black |
 |
3584335988 |
1940 Willys Gasser – A True All-Steel Classic with a Rich History!
This remarkable 1940 Willys Gasser has lived a storied life as a racecar but is now a street-friendly cruiser ready to be enjoyed. Powered by a robust 355 cubic inch Chevrolet V8 engine with aluminum heads, dual Holley 4-barrel carburetors, and a Weiand 6-71 blower, this car still delivers plenty of punch. The blower is underdriven to enhance drivability, and it runs smoothly on 96 octane pump gas.
The engine is paired with a Tremec 5-speed manual transmission, delivering power through a legendary Ford 9″ rear end. The original 5.31 gears have been replaced with a more manageable 4.11 limited slip setup, ensuring a pleasurable driving experience. A new 3-core aluminum radiator, complete with an inverted fan, keeps the engine cool while you cruise to local car shows or cruise nights.
Currently, the owner stores it in a climate-controlled garage and takes it to shows on nice days. This Willys turns heads wherever it goes, with admirers reminiscing about its racing days and others marveling at its authentic steel construction. It’s an impressive specimen that would make any owner proud to showcase, or it could serve as a fantastic addition to a racing museum.
To ensure it meets street legality, the current owner has installed new wiring, including headlights and turn signals. This is the same car that Jim Wilkens famously popped wheelies in during races, now enjoying a new chapter as a show car. It carries a wealth of history, including signatures from racing legends on the firewall, such as “Big Daddy” Don Garlits and K.S. Pittman. The included photos depict the car in its racing days as “The Handshaker,” although it now features a different setup.
Step inside, and you’ll find black vinyl bucket seats, a Hurst shifter, a boost gauge, and an old-school tachometer—perfect for anyone eager to hit the track! While this retired racecar is content cruising, it still offers the thrill of grabbing gears and chirping tires.
Cragar wheels complement the striking black and brown color scheme, adorned with hand-painted graphics by Brush Works. These graphics pay tribute to those who contributed to the build, including Mark Smith for the chassis, Dale Conrad for the body, and mechanics like “Big Al” Waugh and “Danger” Dave Anglin. The opposite side features “Jim Wilkens Paint and Body” along with a playful “Hi Mom!”
The playful spirit of this build extends to the interior, where the dash boasts phrases like “First Gear, Fan On, Kick ass!” This car isn’t just about looks; it has a legacy. A note from former owner and racer Jim Wilkens recounts driving it to 126 miles per hour in the quarter mile—imagine sitting at the starting line, engine roaring at 2,400 RPMs, releasing the line-lock, and taking off! Shifting at 7,000 RPMs and crossing the finish line at 126 mph—what an exhilarating ride and an incredible story to share at car shows with anyone curious about your new 1940 Willys coupe!
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So cool, from my era. Disappointed he didn’t climb on it from that last stop sign. Wish it was closer to the west coast even though I’m too old, I’d like to see it.