1963 Aero Willys 2600 4-Door Sedan
2025.0005.0001, Savoy Collection, Generously donated by Mark L. James, PA
Engine: 231 cu. in. (3.8 L) Cast-iron block, I-6
Output: 110 HP
Transmission: 3-Speed Manual
Wheelbase: 108 in.
Overall Length: 183 in.
No. Produced: 116,967 (total 1960-1971)
Manufacturer: Willys do Brazil, Sao Paulo
Willys Aero’s stateside production ran from 1952 until 1954. Willys-Overland and Kaiser merged in 1953, and two South American subsidiaries were formed, one of them was in Brazil. Tooling for the Aero was sent there and in 1960 the car was once again in production. After three model-years, a redesign was in order. Usually attributed to a Brazilian architect, it was the creation of American stylist Brooks Stevens who formerly did work for Willys.
This car is believed to be one of two sent to Willys headquarters in Toledo, OH for engineering evaluation. The cars were then sold to private individuals. Brooks Stevens purchased this car and was displayed in his museum. It has never been restored and has just 8,550 original kilometers (5,314 miles) on the odometer. At the 2021 AACA Fall Meet in Hershey, PA the car earned “HPOF” (Historical Preservation of Original Features) status.