Highlights
- Just 13,969 miles which is supported by the MOT history
- Original, delightfully patinated and complete with its fire-fighting equipment
- Reportedly in excellent running and driving order with no apparent faults
The Appeal
As well as serving farmers, adventurers and the country estate-dwelling aristocracy, Land Rovers have also played a pivotal role in the Fire Service, serving rural communities inaccessible for large fire engines. Carmichael were one of the main converters and we’re delighted to offer this beautifully preserved Series III dating from 1979. ‘YCV 945T’ was originally commissioned by the Cornwall Fire Brigade and reportedly served in a small village throughout its time with the Service. It has since had six keepers, (although one owned it twice), and has remained immensely original covering a mere 13,969 miles.
Still fully equipped with its sirens, galvanised water tank, pump, hoses, radio and Airmaster breathing apparatus, this is one of the most original Land Rover fire engines you’re likely to find. The vendor reports that it drives exceptionally thanks to its minuscule mileage, with no apparent faults whatsoever.
The History and Paperwork
- First registered on 12th March 1979
- Six former keepers recorded by the DVLA (with one individual owning it twice)
- Maintained by the Fire Service throughout its working life
- Served a small Cornish village
- Original and unrestored
- V5C present
- Exempt from road tax and MOT testing
- Collection of old MOT certificates supporting the indicated 13,969 miles
- Copy of an original Series III Owner’s Manual
- Original build sheet / specification list present
- The vendor shall also supply a set of white and yellow numberplates
The Interior
- Highly original and unrestored
- The original Hardura matting remains in very good condition
- Complete with door cards
- An auxiliary oil pressure gauge has been added to the radio blanking plate
- Minimal wear to the original controls
- We understand that all the electrics work as they should
- The instruments all read clearly
- A wooden tray sits between the front seats
- The original headlining remains in very good shape and is complete with its interior light and Safari roof ventilation
- Additional switchgear for the sirens, lights and pumping equipment remains in place and in good condition
- A period fire extinguisher is mounted between the front seats also
The Exterior
- Old red paintwork complete with Cornwall Fire Brigade Insignia
- The paint finish has faded and attained a pleasing patina
- The finish would likely respond well to a polish, but has been left as-is for the next owner to decide how they would like the Land Rover to look
- Retains its rare deep-dish (90mm) wheel rims specified for additional load capacity
- New Michelin tyres fitted within the last two months
- All the galvanised cappings and front bumper remain in good order
- Underneath, the chassis appears in great shape for its age, with some surface corrosion in places
- Both bulkhead and rear crossmember appear very sound
- No notable dents to the ‘Birmabright’ alloy bodywork
- All lights glass seemingly in good order
- A ladder is affixed to the Safari roof
- The siren and spot lamp still work correctly
- Side lockers and roller blind rear access door
The Mechanics
- 2.25-litre four-cylinder petrol engine
- Four-speed manual gearbox
- Selectable low range and four-wheel drive
- Godiva fire pump affixed to the front bumper and reportedly still functioning
- Airmaster breathing apparatus included
- Retains its galvanised water tank and other associated equipment including various hoses and fittings
- The vendor informs us that it drives very well indeed
- The brakes are reportedly excellent
- A new clutch master cylinder, new alternator and belt have been recently fitted
Summary
This museum-worthy Series III is exactly what Land Rover collectors are looking for. The Cornwall Fire Brigade connection is fascinating and the fact it has retained all its original equipment really adds to its appeal. Now’s your chance to become the next custodian of this supremely, Carmichael-converted Series III 109.
BEFORE YOU BUY
This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:
✓ If the seller is registered as a private seller, consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not apply. Car & Classic’s return policy applies.
✓ A non-refundable deposit will be payable if you are the winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for details.
✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is, Where Is’ basis and without warranty. A full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase and bidding is highly recommended. Photos and descriptions are for guidance purposes only.
✓ VAT is included in the buyer's deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.
✓ UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check, to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing.
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