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.

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Location

Mulhouse, France

Year of construction

1942

Country of origin

United States of America

Manufacturer

White Motor Company, Cleveland, USA

Type

M3A1

Estimated price

€ 0

Condition

Older restoration/ Good running condition

Details

Condition

Conditions

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.

Specifications

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.