1928 Whippet Rumble Seat Convertible - Frame off restoration - Ex William Harrah

Description

Here up for bids is this outstanding 1928 Willys Cabriolet Coupe. This car was formerly part of the William Harrah Collection, having been highly restored at their facilities in Reno. Despite having been restored close to 40 years ago, the car still appears fresh and displays very few signs of aging or wear. The restoration was done to a high level and the car has been kept up, stored properly, and maintained since then. While relatively rare today, in 1928 Willys-Overland actually placed third in US automobile sales, right behind Ford and Chevrolet. It's hard to believe that over 300,000 Willys were sold in 1928, when was the last time you saw one?
Click to enlarge any of the images, OR click here to view a slideshow of all of the enlarged images.

Very strong presentation with show quality paint over excellent sheet metal. The car was completely apart during the restoration, you will find no overspray or tape lines anywhere. The wood framing is all sound, panel fit is good and there are zero rust issues. The body shows a few minor dings but no dents or damage. Tires are Denmans in 4.75x19 with good tread and no sidewall checking. The license plates are expensive one-offs, not legal for road use but a nice touch for display, they are included with the car.

Radiator shroud and headlight rings were replated and are in excellent condition. Lights and lenses are all in terrific shape, the "Monogram" headlights look like new.

Clean and straight hood louvers, clean and straight running boards.

The folding top operates smoothly with an excellent frame and hardware. The rear window clips up inside and provides a nice open view for your rumble seat passengers.

The car gets lots of looks, waves and honks when you're out on the road, even more so when the top's down!

Beautifully restored interior that shows no wear.

Steering wheel is like new. Gauges work except for the speedometer, which needs a new cable. The A/C works but needs a charge. Kidding.
The car comes with a factory parts manual, rare original dealer sales brochure, and a copy of the operator's manual bound by the Harrah Technical Library in Reno. Included but not shown is the hand crank, hub wrench, and a small box of tune-up spares.

The 2.2L 4 cylinder was pretty advanced for its time, offering pressurized lubrication and water pump cooling. This little motor runs like a sewing machine, it starts on the button and operates smoothly. The transmission shifts well, the mechanical brakes function correctly, and the car pretty much motors along like it's still 1928.

Click here for a slideshow of all of the enlarged images.

About the reserve price:
Out of fairness to all bidders the reserve is held in confidence, please just bid at the level that you'd want to pay. This auction ends Wednesday, June 15th at 9 AM Pacific Time