The story of Overland is a rollercoaster ride typical of many of our nation’s early automobile manufacturers. It was advanced for its time; for example, early models featured a removable ignition plug that prevented auto theft when left unattended. However, the firm was in danger of collapsing by 1907. John North Willys, a dealer from Elmira, New York, had a $10,000 deposit on an order of 500 cars. To prevent himself from losing the sales he had generated, he stepped in and assumed management of the struggling company. The newly reorganized Willys-Overland Company oscillated between the verge of bankruptcy and years of multi-million-dollar profit, and production continued until the 1930s.

The example offered here features an older restoration that was done some time ago. The car was donated to the AACA Museum in 2001, and it has remained part of their collection since. It is finished in a lovely shade of blue, with white pinstriping and black fenders, and the interior is finished in black diamond-pleated leather with a black canvas top. As would be expected of an older restoration, the paint shows some wear, which is more evident on the lighter blue, and the leather is in fair condition, with a few splits. The canvas top is in good condition and comes with an extra rear section, and side curtains are also included, although their plastic has become brittle.

As this vehicle has been part of a museum collection, the purchaser is advised that it will require some degree of mechanical recommissioning before being placed into routine service.