“This is actually based on a Suzuki Jimny”
The “Jeep Jamboree” held in September 2023 at the Stackland Farm off-road course at the foot of Mt. Fuji attracted unique Jeeps and owners with plenty of charm, from the old Willys “MB-type” to Mitsubishi Jeeps and the latest Jeep Wrangler. This time, we found the original Jeep, the “Willys MB! but let us introduce an individual that was a replica built based on an unexpected vehicle.
The drivetrain was taken directly from a JA11 Jimny
The car looks like a Willys MB at a glance, but the details are slightly different. Moreover, the exhaust sound when entering the venue was completely different. We immediately asked the owner about it, and got a surprising answer.
“This is actually based on a Jimny. It took three years to complete.”
Mr. Ueshima, the owner, started customizing a JA11 Suzuki Jimny about 10 years ago. The engine, transmission, suspension, and other parts are all directly from the Jimny, and a handmade MB-type body was installed.
The JA11 was chosen because it is equipped with front and rear leaf springs and has a new standard 660cc turbo engine. the MB style body is quite elaborate in every detail, but the dimensions are different from the original MB to match Jimny’s basic structure. It is said to be different from the original MB by the basic structure of the Jimny.
According to Mr. Ueshima, the part of the exterior that differs most from the real thing is the position of the front tires. This is unavoidable due to Jimny’s wheelbase, but they are much further back than the real ones.
Remnants of Jimny visible in places
When we turn our attention to the interior of the car, we can see many differences. First of all, the steering column, steering wheel, turn signal lever, and other parts are all directly from the Jimny. Similarly, the shift lever, sub-transmission, and, upon closer inspection, the instrument panel also remain the same as the Jimny, and the air conditioner control panel and sun visor also appear to be for the Jimny.
Because the floor panels are still for the Jimny, there is a center console around the side brake, and the seats are also still for the Jimny.
Although there are minor differences in this way, in general, the car is so complete that it should be impossible to tell that this car is a Jimny just from a quick glance.
Jimny has the advantage of having no trouble with parts supply
Mr. Ueshima is a DIY enthusiast at heart, and is currently building a Ural trailer with a sidecar. Naturally, he has a wealth of knowledge about military vehicles. We asked Mr. Ueshima how this Jimny turned out.
“I think it was done quite well. And since the engine and transmission are Jimnys, we don’t have to worry about parts even if they break, and the taxes are low.
