1981 Land Rover 109 V8 Regular

Highlights

  • Fully operational 
  • 50 gallon water tank and pump
  • Presents well

The Appeal

Land Rovers are undoubtedly one of the most versatile vehicles out there, due to their simple mechanics and body structure, availability of parts worldwide, and of course their ability to cross virtually any terrain with ease.  

Here we have one such Stage One that was originally supplied in 1981 and converted to a Fire Appliance in 1985 by VF Specialist Vehicles of Batley, West Yorkshire, and was done so to conform with the particular specification set out by the Civil Aviation Authority.
It's a unique vehicle that is still fully operational and by simply by being a Land Rover will have wide appeal. 
 

 

The History and Paperwork

  • Supplied new in 1981 
  • Initially sold to Thruxton Airfield where it was used ‘in action’ until 2003
  • It was then sold to Tatenhill Aviation Ltd at Needwood in Burton-on-Trent where it was used as the Airfield Fire Appliance until 2005
  • It was then used regularly, providing Motorsport Fire Cover and also for TV and film sets until it was purchased by the current owner in 2013 and has been used in Northern Ireland for dry riser testing and as fire safety cover for various events throughout the region
  • Mainly used in the summer months and dry stored over the winter
  • Very light usage – generally a couple of events per month
  • MOT and Tax exempt
  • V5c present 
  • The clock was replaced by the current owner and doesn’t currently work so the mileage is unknown
  • 1 set of keys
  • Spare wheel
 


The Interior

  • Vinyl seats appear in fair condition and the cabin is functional rather than made for comfort
  • Dashboard appears free from any damage 
  • Windscreen free from any cracks
  • All switchgear conveniently located for driver
  • All gauges and electrics work as they should
  • Side lockers fitted on both sides with sliding aluminium shutters for equipment storage
  • One large shutter to the rear with sliding aluminium shutter for quick access to fire equipment
 


The Exterior

  • Originally yellow, it was repainted in red and given Battenburg markings in 2012
  • Overall, the bodywork appears solid and presents very well
  • A few paint chips, rust bubble spots and scratches can be found around the vehicle as is evident from the photographs 
  • One blue beacon and one yellow recognition beacon fitted with two-tone horns
  • GRP tank fitted with capacity for 50 gallons of water and three gallons of foam additive, which can be delivered through the Godiva PTO pump at a rate of 300gpm
  • Godiva GPL 669/2 pump complete with water ring primer
  • Wheels all present well and are shod with brand new tyres including the spare
  • Lights all work and are free from any cracks or damage
 


The Mechanics

  • Rover high-compression 3.5 litre V8 engine
  • Chassis reconditioned to one-tonne heavy duty type
  • 4-speed manual gearbox
  • Leaf spring suspension
  • Radiator rebuilt in 2017
  • Last serviced one year ago
  • Transfer box with high/low ratio and power take-off for pump fitted
  • Vendor advises that the vehicle starts first time and idles nicely
  • Clutch works well but as it hasn’t been used all winter, its advised that the new owner gives it a thorough checking over to assure road worthiness
 

 

The Summary

Although the mileage is unverifiable, it’s unlikely such a vehicle would be travelling great distances. As is clear from its history, its spent most of its life stationed at various locations where it has stayed for fairly long periods.

It’s a fantastically unique and fully functional Fire Appliance that would appeal to a small airfield, race track, or any number of outdoor summer event locations, but would equally would look fantastic as part of a larger Land Rover collection.

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.

A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.
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Vehicle specification
  • Year 1981
  • Make Land Rover
  • Model 109 V8 Regular
  • Colour Red
  • Odometer 883 Miles
  • Engine size 3528
Auction Details
  • Seller Type Private
  • Town Belfast
  • Location Northern Ireland
  • Country United Kingdom
Bidding history
18 bids
  • We•••• £6,000 27/03/23
  • im•••• £5,700 27/03/23
  • Ia•••• £5,500 27/03/23
  • We•••• £5,000 27/03/23
  • jo•••• £3,500 27/03/23
  • cr•••• £2,500 27/03/23
  • an•••• £2,200 27/03/23
  • Ro•••• £2,100 27/03/23
  • Be•••• £2,000 26/03/23
  • gd•••• £1,800 26/03/23
Message C&C Auction Team

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