What is the wheelbase of the Ford GPW?
The Ford GPW’s wheelbase is 81 inches (about 2.06 meters).
Historical context
The GPW was Ford’s turbocharged version of the World War II Willys jeep, produced from 1941 to 1945 as part of the Allied wartime effort. It shared the same rugged, go-anywhere design philosophy as the Willys MB, with most major dimensions being very similar. The wheelbase is commonly cited at 81 inches in standard references, though some sources note slight rounding or measurement variations that can place it near 80 inches in certain references or build records. For most restorations and historical references, 81 inches is treated as the conventional specification.
Dimensions and comparisons
To provide a quick comparison with its close cousin, here is a concise look at the two related models and their wheelbase measurements. This helps illustrate how the GPW compares within the same family of WWII jeeps.
- Ford GPW wheelbase: 81 inches (206 cm)
- Willys MB wheelbase: 80 inches (203 cm)
In practice, the GPW’s wheelbase sits at about 81 inches, a design choice that aligned with the era’s manufacturing tolerances and the Jeep’s anticipated off-road performance. Variations of a fraction of an inch were common due to factory tolerances, measurement methods, or changes across production runs.
Notes for restorers
When restoring or authenticating a GPW, it’s prudent to verify from the specific production period and vehicle contract documentation, as some records may reflect minor deviations. For most enthusiasts and auctions, the 81-inch figure is the accepted standard and is used in most restoration guides and parts catalogs.
Summary
The Ford GPW’s established wheelbase is 81 inches. This dimension aligns with the Jeep’s overall design and performance goals during World War II and places it very close to the Willys MB’s geometry, with only small variations reported in some sources due to measurement references. The 81-inch wheelbase remains the authoritative figure for restoration, historical references, and enthusiast knowledge.
