Ford M151 Prototype

[Njschieb]

I have the opportunity to purchase an alleged 1951 Ford M151 prototype. The fella who's selling it is someone I very much trust knowing the history in the automotive he has. According to him it is 1 of 10 models Ford made in 1951 for the Pentagon/Army. If this really is on of the original Ford what's the true value of this jeep? It's never been registered and he's told me the only thing wrong with it is a leaky master cylinder and will need minimal engine work.

[rickf]

I seriously doubt it is a legitimate prototype. I don't think there were any prototypes out that early. Ken will probably jump in with better info on that but I do know there were only two or three and they are all accounted for. We would need some pictures to verify the claim.

[Surveyor]

From what I've read the first wooden mockup was not created till Oct of 52. The first engine in 53 and the first two real test vehicles in July of 53. And all of them had a very distinctive look compared to final production models. The front looking about the same while I think the rear looks more like an m38a1 with fender flares. There were a total of 11 xm151s besides the "e" versions. Possible prototype for another mil vehicle? The m422 would have also been in development around the same time frame. Like Rick said, we would love to see pics!

Disclaimer - all info from Mr. Doyle's book which I think some contend is not completely accurate.

[rickf]

I can tell you the sides of the prototypes looked nothing like te sides of the production vehicle.

[Njschieb]

He's told me it was a prototype now the year he could be mistaken. It has a ford inline 4, 1.8 or 1.84 liter engine.

[rickf]

I certainly would not purchase it without at least getting some pictures and posting them here so we can tell you whether it is real or not. Where are you located?

Here is a link to a picture of one of the original XM-151's, This was a 1954. I have only heard of two, maybe three of the XM's still around and I know one has no drive train. I am pretty sure that none of them were running.

http://www.ewillys.com/wp-content/uploa ... deen11.jpg

[Surveyor]

I think someone mentioned this one showing up some years back at an MVPA convention, maybe Jason?



Another thread to look into - http://g838.org/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=4060&p=33290

[acudanut]

Damn that is ugly. (imo worthless opinion)

[rickf]

That is the one with no drive train