VIDEO: Custom 1953 8×8 Willys Jeep Called The Centipede

Depending on who you ask this is either the coolest or ugliest Jeep of all time. Looking like the bastard child of a Willys Jeep and a halftrack this isn’t an official military vehicle but a custom fabrication. It came straight out of the imagination of legendary fabricator Dick Cook. Cook apprenticed under Ed “Big Daddy” Roth. He built this concept Willys Jeep in the 1970’s after he was inspired to build the ultimate military vehicle. One that can handle better, drive faster, and tackle the rough terrain easier than a standard Jeep.

The Willys interior and Corvette 327.

This eight-legged freak was assembled when Cook took three military Willys Jeeps and put them together. It has the traditional military olive drab color complete with white stripes and serial numbers. It’s eight-wheel drive as well as eight-wheel steering.

When the situation calls for it, rear-wheel lock out can be activated which keeps the four rear wheels straight and allows only the front four wheels to turn. The interior is minimalist, similar to that of a military Willys, and includes push-button start which lights the fires of the 327ci V8 engine.

The 327 was ripped from a Corvette and its housed in a custom rear compartment, providing this 8×8 with plenty of juice for off-roading. To prove how well this 8×8 concept works, Cook took the custom on a road trip from Las Vegas to Colorado.

The 8×8 Jeep has appeared in numerous parades, military heritage festivals and car shows. Due to its wild appearance, the custom, nicknamed the Centipede, would be prized by any owner in either the off-road or military community. Check out the 2014 “>video of this remarkable custom above. 

About the author

Josh Courter

Josh Courter is a Power Automedia freelancer with a serious passion for anything custom. Rods, classics, sleds, and even motorcycles provide inspiration for Josh along with his passion for automotive history.
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