The original jeep of the World War II era is going through a revival in my hometown. Two or three years ago there were very few of these military jeeps roaming town. Today, you see them cruising the streets and competing in off-road races.

Some of the jeeps are restored to their original specifications, designs, the engine, and even the army drab olive painting with a star and a set of numbers painted on the hood. These look like the real McCoy, complete with accessories purchased from junk shops or dug up in some barn.

Those who use their jeeps for off-road racing usually modify them. They are lifted up so high you almost need a ladder to get on them. The tires are extremely tall and wide. Roll bars wrap the driver and passenger seats. A winch is mounted on the front bumper. Some of them have the radiator mounted behind the driver. Almost invariably, the original jeep engine has been traded for a bigger and more powerful motor. Toyotas and Mitsubishis are a favorite.

My favorite is a cross between the two. It’s a yellow Willys, probably an MC or M38 model. It sports the original army lug tires and carries a jerry can and a spare tire at the back. Although it still has the standard 4 x 4 transmission, the engine has been swapped for a 1600 cc Toyota motor when fuel prices began to soar in the 70s.

It is my favorite because it is mine.