The late forties were a time of resilience, recovery and response, World War II had scarred Britain and its citizens, with millions of lives taken and disrupted. Bankrupt and bruised, Britain needed a hero and in 1948, that hero, built of aluminium and steel, arrived.
An icon was born and they called it the Land Rover. Designed to be a robust, all-purpose, utility vehicle, the Land Rover was initially produced to be in production for a few years, to bring some cash back into the Rover Company however its sales surpassed any car options released at the time and as such, its development continued and the brand is still globally recognised to this day.
This 1955 ‘Series I’ model, is the slightly revised, later variant of the initial Land Rover, incredibly loved and sought after these early Series models are desired by collectors and enthusiasts globally, with both fully restored and honest examples being competed for.
This offering is in fair shape and presented well with some characteristic patina. Finished in an endearing colour plus a recently fitted canvas roof, this Series I is a candid representation of the iconic vehicle and would make a fantastic addition to any collection and could be completely restored or kept in its current charismatic condition.
THE HISTORY AND PAPERWORK
V5c present
UK registered in 1955
Some prior MOT certificates present
Invoice for services carried out in 2019 & 2020 plus some additional maintenance in 2006 - Current ownership since 2020
Used sparingly and only in dry conditions, mainly during the summer months - Maintained by a classic car mechanic, although no paperwork present
THE INTERIOR
Good condition with some age-related patina
Seats in good condition with no rips or tears
Dials and switches all present and operational
The rear cargo space contains a few marks and blemishes
Heater installed
Inside the Series I, it's as you expect a 1950s utilitarian vehicle to be. Extravagant comforts and lavish trims were not at the forefront of Rover's design, this vehicle was specifically targeted at agricultural and industrial use and as such, the layout is straightforward and purposeful. The condition of the interior is very good, with the seats especially being in great order. There are some blemishes and patina present but overall a looked-after cabin. The rear cargo area is showing evidence that it has been used for exactly what it was intended for, with a few marks here and there.
THE EXTERIOR
Paint condition good with small blemishes
Small patina present
Original chassis present
Steel wheels with all-terrain tyres
The canvas roof is in very good condition, installed roughly 6 years ago
Removable windows present and in good condition
Finished in a pleasant dark green with a sand canvas roof, this Series I is an attractive, well-kept example of the later, slightly revised model, where the lights are situated to the side of the grill. The appearance of the vehicle is good, with some patina and blemishes present throughout. It's not perfect, the aluminium body panels are holding up well but are showing the characteristic blemishes you find on most Land Rovers. The roof was replaced prior to current ownership, roughly six years ago but still appears fresh and with little wear. The original chassis is present, which has seen some repairs over time but it has not been replaced.
THE MECHANICS
1997cc Petrol Engine
4-Speed manual
Selectable 4WD
Drives & runs well
Overdrive
Thrust bearing replaced
Low-range lever stiff
Tuned and maintained by a classic car specialist
The mechanics of the vehicle are reported to be in great order, with no reported faults. The drive is described as a typical Land Rover but with quick performance. It has been maintained by a classic car specialist and family friend who has repaired or replaced a few parts over the years such as the carburettor has been rebuilt and thrust bearings replaced.
SUMMARY
There’s just something about a classic Land Rover that draws us in, it's got heritage, impressive capabilities, vintage industrial looks and a global fan base. It really is an icon of the automotive industry, a name that has reigned for 75 years and outlasted many of the companies that adopted it. It's a huge part of British history and a living, breathing representation of the post-war rebuild. This Landy is presented well and features its original chassis. Enjoy it as it is or completely restore it, it's ideal for either and a fantastic opportunity for any Land Rover lover out there.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only. Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.
UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft. It is currently not covered by a finance agreement.
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