Every year, there are studies that seek to find the most American vehicle through an assortment of criteria that examines everything from parts content to assembly location to job creation.
While the results are always interesting, what makes something ‘truly American’ can easily get lost in the process. As a result, we’re asking our readers what they think is the most patriotic or American vehicle.
One of the most obvious answers is the Willys MB, which Jeep itself says is “forever tied to freedom, capability and adventure.” An evolution of the earlier Willys MA, the model became famous for its role in World War II and one particular vehicle was even awarded the Purple Heart.
[embedded content]
Known as Old Faithful, the 1944 September/October issue of Army Ordinance said the Jeep was awarded the medal for two shrapnel holes to its windshield that were received during the Japanese shelling of Guadalcanal on October 13, 1942.
After the war, Willys transformed the MB into the CJ-2A which cost $1,090, or roughly $17,600 in today’s money. While its origins were immediately apparent, the Civilian Jeep (CJ) was equipped with better shock absorbers, different springs, and more comfortable seats. The model was also outfitted with a revised transmission, a beefier clutch, a reinforced frame, and larger headlights.
These vehicles paved the way for the Jeep brand that we know today and their legacy continues in the form of the Wrangler. While it’s hard to argue with a pedigree like that, there are countless other models that scream America such as the Chevrolet Corvette and Ford Mustang.
So with all that being said, what do you think is the most patriotic or American vehicle?
