Highlights
- Powered by the five main bearing 2.25-litre petrol engine
- Very straight bodywork with attractive patina
- Really original and unmodified
The Appeal
There’s something rather charming about a car that’s worked hard for a living and wears its years of service proudly on its sleeve. This Land Rover Series III has not lived a pampered life but, with enough maintenance in all the right areas, it proves that these old workhorses still have plenty to give.
It’s been in the vendor’s ownership for around ten years and is a really original and unmodified example. While there is patina a-plenty, the ‘Birmabright’ bodywork is actually really straight for an unrestored Land Rover of this vintage and while it has clearly worked hard, it certainly hasn’t been mistreated.
The History and Paperwork
- One of the last Series III Land Rovers produced
- Accompanied by a number of invoices for past work and servicing
- Collection of old MOT certificates
- In current ownership for around ten years
- Serviced by a local garage
- New suspension and front quarter chassis fitted around five years ago
- Recent ignition and carburettor service
- MOT valid until February 2023
- V5C present
- No indication of this vehicle having been imported, although a Km speedometer is fitted for some reason
The Interior
- Three-abreast front seating
- The ‘basic’ vinyl seats have numerous tears but remain usable
- Rubber overmats fitted
- The dashboard looks to be in really good shape
- Some wear to the controls but no damage we could see besides one toggle switch missing its plastic end
- Very original with no aftermarket additions we could see
- No door cards or Hardura lining fitted
- The inside of the removable door tops appear in fair condition
- There are no rear seat cushions although folding seat frames remain in situ
- Some paint loss and damage evident in the rear as you’d expect from a utility vehicle
- Overall, we enjoy the simplicity of this interior and it has weathered nicely over the years
The Exterior
- Limestone pantwork exhibits plenty of patina
- While there are a few dents, the alloy panels are remarkably straight
- The doors fit quite well, as does the tailgate
- All of the galvanised cappings and the galvanised front bumper are in good order
- The canvas tilt shows its age but remains in tact
- Can be transformed into an open-top vehicle with minimal effort
- All the wheels with the exception of one are finished in black
- Bonnet mounted spare wheel
- Some slight corrosion evident to the front valance panel as is a common Land Rover ailment
- Underneath, the chassis exhibits some surface corrosion but appears solid
- Corrosion has been flagged on previous MOTs but none was reported when last tested
- Reportedly received a new front quarter chassis around five years ago
- A great starting point for cosmetic restoration or leaving exactly as is
The Mechanics
- Five-main bearing 2.25-litre petrol engine
- Recent ignition and carburettor service
- Now reportedly fitted with electronic ignition and new HT leads
- New suspension all round five years ago
- The leaf springs are a little rusty but we couldn’t see any broken leaves, splaying or damage
- Evidence of multiple oil leaks as is hardly uncommon on working Land Rovers of this vintage
- We’re informed the low range gearbox and four wheel-drive systems operate as they should
Summary
With the recent resurgence in enthusiasm for classic Land Rovers, there are surprisingly few original and unrestored survivors out there. We're sure this honest example will appeal to collectors and first time Land Rover owners alike.
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.*
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