1942 White Scout Car M3A1
This White Scout Car is an older restoration but remains in excellent condition, starting effortlessly at the push of a button, with the engine running smoothly. The vehicle is highly complete, featuring a working radio and a well-preserved canvas roof. With the top open and a your family or friends in the back it a fun and great looking vehicle to attent military events.
Location
Mulhouse, France
Year of construction
1942
Country of origin
United States of America
Manufacturer
White Motor Company, Cleveland, USA
Type
M3A1
Condition
Older restoration/ Good running condition
Starting bid
€ 4.500
Details
Condition
This White Scout Car is an older restoration but remains in excellent condition, starting effortlessly at the push of a button, with the engine running smoothly. The vehicle is highly complete, featuring a working radio and a well-preserved canvas roof. While the passenger seats are not original, the Scout Car remains a solid and well-maintained example.
Please note: There is an issue with the gearbox, where shifting from forward to reverse can occasionally cause a lock up (a known problem dating back to its use during WWII). While this can currently be managed with a temporary fix, a more permanent and proper solution will need attention to fully resolve the issue.
Technical details
- Manufacturer
- White Motor Company, Cleveland, USA
- Model
- M3A1
- Manufacturing date
- 1942
- Chassis number
- 256404
- Length
- 18 ft 5 in (5,61 m)
- Width
- 6 ft 8 in (2,03 m)
- Height
- 6 ft 5 in(1,96 m)
- Weight
- 12.400 lbs (5620 kg)
- Max. speed (land)
- 45 mph (72 km/h)
- Operational range
- 250 mi (400 km)
- Main armament
- .50 cal M22HB Machine gun (flexible on cradle mount M30, M35, M35C
- Secondary armament
- 2x . 30 cal (7.62 mm) M1919 Browning machine guns
- Engine
- ercules JXD; 6 cylinder, gasoline
- Crew
- 8 (1 driver, 7 passengers)
- Armor
- .25" - .50" (.64 cm - 1,3 cm)
- Production numbers
- 20.918
History
The White Scout Car M3A1 was an armored reconnaissance vehicle developed in the 1930s and 1940s by the American White Motor Company. The vehicle was originally designed to meet the U.S. Army's need for a fast, maneuverable, and well-armed reconnaissance vehicle that could provide both infantry and light artillery support.
Development
The development of the White Scout Car began in 1938 when the U.S. Army needed a new reconnaissance vehicle. The White Motor Company designed the M3, which was later improved to the M3A1 variant. The M3A1 featured several important modifications compared to its predecessor, such as an improved suspension system, heavier armor, and an open roof with a rotating ring for mounting a heavy machine gun, such as the Browning M2 .50 caliber.
The vehicle was equipped with a 6-cylinder gasoline engine, giving it a top speed of about 50 mph (80 km/h) and a range of approximately 250 miles (400 kilometers). The M3A1 could carry a crew of up to eight, including the driver, gunner, and six infantrymen. The armor provided protection against small arms fire and shell fragments, while the armament was effective against enemy infantry and light vehicles.
Application
The White Scout Car M3A1 was used by several countries during and after World War II. The primary users were the United States, but the vehicle was also supplied to allies through the Lend-Lease program, including the United Kingdom, the Soviet Union, and the Free French forces.
The vehicle played an important role in the North African campaign, where it was used for reconnaissance, patrols, and as a command vehicle. It was also deployed during the invasion of Italy and the liberation of Western Europe. The vehicle was valued for its speed and mobility, though its limited armor was a disadvantage in heavy combat situations.
The Soviets received a large number of M3A1s through the Lend-Lease program and used them on various fronts, particularly the Eastern Front. Here, the Scout Car was mainly used as a reconnaissance vehicle and sometimes for troop transport. Soviet soldiers appreciated the vehicle's speed and easy maintenance, despite the challenges posed by the harsh conditions of the Eastern Front.
Wars and Conflicts
In addition to World War II, the M3A1 White Scout Car saw action in various other conflicts, like the Chinese Civil War (1946-1950), Korean War (1950-1953) and during smaller conflicts including the independence wars in Africa and the Middle East.
Legacy
Although the White Scout Car M3A1 was gradually phased out and replaced by more advanced vehicles after World War II, it remains an important piece of military heritage. The vehicle is still displayed in museums worldwide and is cherished by military vehicle collectors. The M3A1 is remembered as a versatile and reliable vehicle that played a crucial role in reconnaissance operations of its time.
Note to buyer
BUYER’S PREMIUM
On all lots a buyer’s premium of 16,5% of the hammer price is charged. Over this buyer’s premium a 21% sales tax (VAT) will be applicable.
PARTS, ACCESSOIRIES & MILITARIA
Spare parts, accessories and militaria are sold in as-is condition and delivered without any guarantee of functioning.
VEHICLES & VEHICLE RELATED EQUIPMENT
Cars, motorcycles, trucks, cannons or howitzers, armored vehicles, and tanks are sold in as-is condition, with no technical guarantee and guarantee of authenticity and with or without registration.
ARMS & WEAPONS
The Auction House will not supply ANY item unless the correct paperwork and licensing – if needed – has been supplied by the Buyer in full.
If required and applicable (fire)arms can be made inoperable or permanently disabled by BAIV in The Netherlands as being a licensed Arms & Weapons Dealer Registration Nr. NL20191618779. In this case all relevant cost will be charged to the Buyer in addition and have to be paid in advance in full. Collection by appointment only!
MARGIN/ VAT
However, for most of the lots 21% sales tax (VAT) over the hammer price will be not applicable, it might be that in some specific cases sales tax (VAT) over the hammer price will be charged. In such a case this will be specifically specified in the lot description. For all other lots the margin scheme will be applicable. For more info see our General Conditions of Sale Article 9 on our website; www.tracksandtrade.com
COLLECTION
Parts, accessories, and militaria
The collection of the lots, subject to payment, is by appointment only. The date and time for collecting the goods will be arranged in consultation with the seller.
Vehicles
Vehicles can be picked up, subject to payment, by appointment only. The date and time for collecting vehicles will be arranged in consultation with the seller.
Handling costs for the removal of the vehicles will, when applicable, be applied at cost.
Arms & weapons
The Auction House will not supply ANY item unless the correct paperwork and licensing – if needed - have been supplied in full. If required and applicable (fire)arms can be made inoperable or permanently disabled by BAIV in The Netherlands as being a licensed Arms & Weapons Dealer Registration Nr. NL20191618779. In this case all relevant cost will be charged to the Buyer in addition and have to be paid in advance in full. Collection by appointment only.
IMPORT & EXPORT
Depending on the destination and content of the Lot the Buyer shall obtain an International Import Certificate / End User Certificate. Some of the items listed in the auction may require special licenses or permits or existing documents must be prepared for export. If this is relevant, Tracks & Trade will take care of this. The applicable costs will be charged to the successful bidder. Please email [email protected] if you have any questions or concerns. No item will be allowed to be collected without 100% of all legal requirements being fulfilled.
DELIVERY
Removal of lots must be completed:
After full payment and 100% coverage of all legal requirements.
Within 6 weeks after the auction had ended (November 30, 2024). No storage fees will be applicable until that date.
Shipping and packing costs and special costs that arise for loading special items, such as crane costs or costs for hiring special equipment etc., will be charged to the Buyer on the basis of actual costs + a surcharge of 10%. Naturally, you can count on us when it comes to the shipment of your purchases. We are happy to take care of that.
STORAGE
Lots not picked up by Buyers within 6 weeks after the auction had ended (November 30, 2024) will be returned to secure storage at Buyer’s expense. In this case storage fees will be applicable. Contact Tracks & Trade for costs and conditions.
NOTE
If you have any specific questions, please contact us either by telephone (+31 6 518 22 502) or E-mail ([email protected]). We are happy to help and support you through the entire process. We will do our utmost to please and comfort you. So, don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions.
GENERAL CONDITIONS
All information and transactions are subject to the general terms and conditions (Version 2.0 dated 29-04-2022). For more detailed information visit our website.
Shipping Information
After buying a classic military vehicle or other items such as cannons, planes, howitzers and tanks, there are several steps you would typically need to take:
Legalities
In principle, no special permit is required for unarmored wheeled and tracked vehicles. In many cases, an export procedure that is comparable to that for exporting classic cars and motorcycles is sufficient. Military collectables older than 75 years and with a value over Euro 50k are often considered National Heritage. In such cases an export permit must be requested from the National Ministry of Culture of the exporting country. Tanks, howitzers and self-propelled or towed cannons often require specific permits that are highly dependent on the country of shipment and the country of destination. In such a case first ensure that you apply for the necessary permits, licenses, and other paperwork required to own and operate such an item in your jurisdiction. This may involve registering the item with the appropriate authorities and complying with any regulations regarding its ownership and use. In such a case it is advisable to contact us in advance because we have many decades of experience in the import and export of Classic Military Heritage. Based on this experience, we can generally quickly provide feedback on what applies to you. This is especially relevant because regulations in this regard change every now and then and sometimes, we also have to deal with export-restrictions. In short: if you want to be sure, contact us in time to avoid difficulties in a later stage.
Storage
Find a suitable storage location for your collectable, preferably a secure and legal place where you can keep it when not in use. This could be a garage, warehouse, or even a specially designed storage facility or museum.
Transportation
After you have all paperwork in place next step will be the (oversees) transport to your desired location. This may involve hiring specialized transport and broker services due to permits, size and weight. Als in this case we can support you with organizing the transport or make sure you get in contact with some experts.
Maintenance and Restoration
Depending on the condition of your military collectable our partner BAIV can help you with maintenance and restoration work to ensure that it is safe and operational. This could involve relatively easy maintenance and repair, service till a Class-A restoration. In such a case please contact BAIV (link to BAIV website).
Training
If you intend to operate a vehicle then make sure you have manuals that describe how the operate vehicle. Nowadays there are numerous reprints available on the Internet that explain you in a playful way how to drive and operate your vehicle. This is often a team effort, which makes owning such a vehicle extra attractive. If required, you can also involve hiring a professional instructor or attending specialized training courses to learn how to drive and maintain it safely. In such a case, our partner BAIV can also support you.
Insurance
Consider obtaining insurance coverage for your vehicle to protect yourself against any potential accidents or liabilities that may arise from owning and operating it. Often there are specialized insurance companies offering these kinds of services. Local military vehicle clubs often also know their way around the specific options offered by insurance companies.
Enjoyment
Finally, once everything is in place, you can enjoy owning and, if permitted, operating your classic military vehicle, cannon or howitzer. Whether it's for display purposes or for participating in historical reenactments, owning such a great unit can be a unique and rewarding experience.
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