Description
For sale, through JOHN BROWN 4X4 LTD, Land Rover Series 2a Ragtop in Light Pastel Green (1963).
Petrol 2286cc. MOT & Tax Exempt. Galvanised Chassis. Fairey Overdrive. Weber Carburettor. Free Wheeling Hubs. Bonnet Mounted Spare. 750×16 Firestone Tyres. Recent Sand Canvas. Recent Galvanised Front Bumper. Heater with Front De-Mist. Recent Standard Front Seats. 3 Front Seat Belts – 2x Outer & 1x Central Lap Belt. “Banjo” Spoke Steering Wheel. Wing Top Mounted Mirrors. 8 Former Keepers.
We are delighted to present for sale this early Land Rover Series 2a, with just 8 former keepers from new in 1963. This particular example has benefitted from a galvanised chassis rebuild in times past, along with a host of mechanical upgrades to get the maximum possible out of the period set up – read on below!
Externally, as the photos show, this is a very pretty Series Land Rover – finished in Light Pastel Green with Limestone wheels and recent sand canvas – and it is nice to note that the bodywork is of a sprayed finish rather than a brush, likely done at the time of rebuild. There are a host of period features such as the vintage number plates, the rear grab handles, the wing top mounted mirrors, 750×16 tyres which not only give superior gearing but also fill the arches for that positive stance, the bonnet mounted spare, the all new lighting including the stop, side and headlights and even the number plate light – etc etc. It is clear to the team at HQ the brief when rebuilding this vehicle was to produce a very “stock” looking vehicle – and based on the public reaction as we carried out our usual test route through central Thirsk and the market square… we’d say that has been successfully achieved! Looking back through our archives, we struggle to find a better looking period Series 2a than this.
On the inside, that standard theme continues – with three front standard seats, all with seat belts, and deluxe matting to the footwells. There is a heater with front de-mist, which would’ve been an expensive option at the time of production, and is particularly welcome during the colder weather and darker months, to prevent icing up. The rear is unfitted with the exception of a load mat to the floor area to protect against scratches, but could house bench seats on request for £595 to bring seating to seven occupants including the driver if so desired.
However, where this Series 2a far exceeds the standard brief is out on the road – not only has this vehicle benefitted from a galvanised chassis to ward away corrosion concerns, but a Weber carburettor has been fitted for increased power and reliability… mated to a Fairey Overdrive to maximise the available performance and give a more relaxed cruise, higher top speed (should it be needed) and improved fuel economy. The added bonus of Free Wheeling Hubs mean that fuel economy is further extended, and axle wear is reduced… 750 tyres help even further beyond this by increasing rolling radius and thus further lengthening the gear ratios – what this means is rather than the original 45mph cruising speed on small tyres without an overdrive – this Series will go far faster than you will want to go… you will run out of gumption before you run out of firepower! All these additions mated together mean the best possible driving experience is achieved using the period set up – and as we tend to find with rebuilt vehicles at HQ – you can feel the improvement behind the wheel.. which is where it really matters.
In summary then, if you are looking for a Series 2a Land Rover with period charm, but want a vehicle which could be passed down through the family as an heirloom, an investment for the future, or just as a loyal companion, then this is well worth considering. Not only does it give a far better account of the period brief than OEM, but those classic looks and desirable colour scheme mean it doesn’t look out of place whether on a shoot across a muddy field, outside of Harrods (benefitting from ULEZ and Congestion charge exemption) or at a classic car rally. The further added bonuses of MOT and Tax Exemption and classic insurances, alongside the money which has been spent to future proof the vehicle, mean that the new keeper should find this Series is as fuss free to own as they realistically can be, bearing in mind this Series is (as many of our customers are!) a product of the 1960s!
Priced at £26, 995
