Description
Pavilion Gardens | Buxton, Derbyshire
Viewing: Tues 14th October from 12pm
Auction: Wed 15th October from 9am
Location: St John's Rd, Buxton SK17 6BE
1971 Land Rover Series IIA 'Searle Carawagon'
No Reserve - fitted with the rare 2. 6 litre 6 cylinder Rover engine
Registration No: EPK 798J
Chassis No: 34600789G
MOT: Exempt
A rare and highly original Series IIA 'Searle Carawagon'
In current ownership for 18 years, displaying a credible c. 71, 000 miles
Fitted with desirable 'Searle' options and more recent upgrades
Offered to sale with V5C, period marketing material and history file
A sympathetic update of its much-loved predecessor, the Land Rover Series II was introduced in April 1958. Featuring sill panels and a rounded wing/ belt line, the newcomer’s sleeker sheet metal was the work of David Bache and clothed an improved chassis. Thus, as well as better rear wheel articulation and sharper steering, the Series II boasted wider axles and a new gearbox (complete with synchromesh on 3rd and 4th gears). Available with a choice of 2. 25-litre petrol or 2-litre diesel four-cylinder engines, the Land Rover could be had in 88-inch or 109-inch wheelbase guises (though, the SWB model made do with a petrol 2-litre unit until September 1958). A popular model, the Series II accounted for some 62, 000 sales in its first two years of production. Announced in 1961, the subtly upgraded Series IIA benefited from an improved cooling system and the arrival of a 2. 25-litre diesel engine. Export models had their headlamps repositioned in the front wings for 1968 with domestic Landies gaining the same revised visage the following year. Phased out of production in 1971, the Series IIA is judged by some to be the most durable Series Land Rover ever made.
This rare and highly original Series IIA 'Searle Carawagon' has been in current ownership for 18 years and displays a credible c. 71, 000 miles. It is understood to have initially resided in Scotland and by 1977 was owned by a Mrs Ursula Wilson before passing to Arthur Mason in 1982. After his death his widow allowed the vehicle to grow into a hedgerow until our vendor offered to save it in 2007. Undertaking a sympathetic small restoration to the bulkhead and other areas needing attention he loved the patina so kept this as it was. It therefore retains the original cabinets, seat vinyl and even 'flock' lined pop-top.
Fitted with desirable 'Searle' options and more recent upgrades including; gas bottle holders underneath, two roll-out bunk beds, roller blinds and fly screens fitted to the sides and pop-top. it even has it's original tent which is understood to have been dated by an upholsterer to the 1970's and given it's unique design is almost certainly an original 'Searle' accessory. More recent fitments include ski straps either side, solar panels, leisure battery, diesel night heater, mini fridge, shower unit on the back door and awning on the passenger side. Enjoyed on many family holidays it is now reluctantly offered for sale with V5C, period marketing material, Searle build sheet and history file.
** Bidding will take place live at the venue, online via our H&H website, by telephone and commission - T&Cs apply**
Parking and entry into the auction is free for auction attendees with a catalogue, available at the door.
Catalogues can be purchased for £20 (admits 2 people).
