Highlights

New galvanised chassis fitted during part restoration
Overdrive on 3rd and 4th gears
Emulates factory station wagon spec with individual rear seats and Safari roof
Canvas roof and all fittings also included
Upgraded to petrol power
Desirable Limestone/Pastel green colour combination

The Appeal

To call a Series Land Rover "refined" is probably a stretch, but the Series III was certainly the most developed of all its variants. Synchromesh on all gears, a more user-friendly dashboard and alternator charging made the Series III more usable than its IIA predecessor, and these features still make it perhaps the most drivable of all leaf-sprung Landys. We adore them.

This short-wheelbase 1980 example has been sympathetically restored and considerably upgraded. Analysis of its chassis number shows that it began life as a standard soft-top or truck-cab utility model, equipped with Land Rover's admirable yet pedestrian 2.25-litre diesel engine. Now, it sits on the sound foundations of a galvanised chassis, is powered by the sewing-machine smooth 2.25 petrol lump and emulates factory station wagon specifications with a safari roof and individual rear seats for four additional passengers.

The vendor describes it as a good runner that is usable as is, with plenty of scope for further improvement. The paintwork carries a sun-aged patina that lends honest character, and the vendor notes that a respray would transform its appearance.

Versatility is enhanced by the inclusion of both the safari roof for year-round driving and a canvas roof with all associated fittings. Purchased by the vendor in December 2021, this Series III presents a solid opportunity for anyone seeking a usable classic Land Rover with the hard work of a chassis swap already done.

Key Information

Mileage: 82,450 miles (indicated as correct; no supporting documentation beyond MOT certificates)
Country of registration: United Kingdom
Technical inspection status: MOT exempt
Technical specs: 2.25-litre inline four-cylinder petrol, four-speed manual with overdrive and selectable low-range/4wd
Paperwork: a collection of MOT certificates and assorted invoices accompany the car; limited paperwork from the restoration period

The Detail

VIN shows formerly diesel-powered and supplied in standard soft-top or truck-cab utility model form, since converted to petrol Station Wagon spec
Part restoration carried out by a previous owner over approximately five to six years
New galvanised chassis fitted during restoration, painted black for original appearance
Safari roof currently fitted; canvas roof and all fittings also included, along with the drop-down tailgate
Canvas roof is faded but usable
New 'Deluxe' front seats fitted
Rear drop-down seats covered in corduroy by the previous owner
The vendor describes the interior as generally good
Paintwork is sun-aged with patina
The vendor reports the engine starts and runs well
Synchromesh can be slightly reluctant when selecting 3rd gear when dropping down from 4th
Purchased by the vendor in December 2021

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:

✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic's own Terms and Conditions..

✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.

✓ This vehicle is "Sold As Seen", on an "As Is Where Is' basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.

✓ GST is included in the buyer's fee. GST may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.

✓ We want a smooth transaction just as much as you do and as such we run all UK-registered cars and motorbikes for sale on Car & Classic through an online HPI check to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing, allowing you to bid with confidence.

✓ We also check whether vehicles are recorded as being written off as part of an insurance total loss claim at the time an advert is placed on Car & Classic and we helpfully provide write-off category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) for your assistance. However, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the vehicle's status and it is always worthwhile carrying out your own full vehicle history check before making an offer on a vehicle.

✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection

or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it's worth checking beforehand. It is the bidders responsibility to confirm import eligibility prior to purchase.

✓ Unless stated otherwise, you must assume that any cherished, personalised, or heritage vehicle registration is not included in the sale of a vehicle.