Beschreibung
Land Rover Series III 88” 2. 25 Petrol
Private sale from my own collection.
Overview:
This is wonderful example of a genuinely original, unrestored and unmolested Land Rover with a documented 45, 500 miles from new.
Perfectly usable in modern traffic, given some discreet improvements to make for a more comfortable drive, or as part of a collection. It is very difficult to find an example that hasn’t suffered from misuse, rust or unsightly additions and modifications.
Originally owned by the Ministry of Agriculture it was then sold to a large country farming estate in Oxfordshire where it was used as the owners principle transport around the estate. It has passed through the hands of some enthusiasts and collectors and I have been lucky enough to own her for around 18 months. Throughout her 40 years maintenance has clearly been rigorous and there is a thick history file to support this from franchised Land Rover dealers, various specialists and there are also letters between owners, verification of mileage, old MOTs and a report from the DVLA listing all the owners from new. Small things such as fitment of a genuine Jaguar/ Land Rover battery show corners and costs have not been cut.
During my ownership, a thorough inspection of every item, system and moving part has been made, adjusted and serviced. It needs nothing.
It is clear the vehicle has been stored inside it’s entire life. This is reflected in the condition of the whole vehicle but quite uniquely there has been no welding at any time to the chassis. My mechanic was very excited (he leads a quiet life) to still be able to see factory weld splatter near the chassis number. He remarked it is unusual to be able to see a chassis number on a chassis that hasn’t been covered in layer upon layer of sealant, let alone be able to see signs of the original manufacturing process some 40 years later, yet see no rust.
Mechanics:
The original 2. 25 engine is in fine condition and pull’s well in every gear. The addition of a Farey overdrive and larger 7. 50 tyre make steady cruising at 60mph + easily achievable. The braking system has been upgraded with a brake servo from a later Series 3 (originally the brakes had no assistance) and the whole braking system has been serviced and stops the vehicle as you would expect from a modern car.
The suspension has benefited from the fitment of Rocky Mountain parabolic springs and shock absorbers which almost bring the ride quality into this century and make a vast improvement.
The wheels are from a modern 110 so tubeless tyres are fitted being Michelin XZL’s in 7. 50 x 16. The wheel rims have been professionally powered coated in the correct period colour.
All fluids have been changed, gear selection is smooth and tight. The vehicle drives probably better than when new but it is important to note nothing has been changed that cannot be returned to completely original if so desired.
Upgrades:
In addition to the above mechanical works, some items have added to make life with this classic more usable. Original style deluxe seats have been fitted (with correct leather tabs) recently. A period radio has been fitted and modified to accept Bluetooth connectivity (hidden) in a period correct British Leyland housing. Discreet speakers fitted under the dash so you can listen to Radio 4 or stream music from your phone as you drive to the pub or a shoot.
Modern headlamps and bulbs have been fitted.
Front seat belt mounts have been installed to fit in with the galvanised hood hoops, and look factory.
An interior light with period correct switch has been discreetly installed.
The hood has been tastefully fitted with quick release brass fittings to allow the canvas to be rolled up quickly without having to undo various ropes and buckles.
Rear seats are fitted as is a rear step, the seat belts have been removed in the rear but will be supplied with the sale.
The tailgate has been fitted with a factory looking galvanised hinge system that allows the tailgate to swing open like a door or drop down as original. This makes loading dogs and people so much easier.
Sound deadening has been fitted to the rear load area, coir matting fitted front and rear and does reduce noise a little. I find canvas topped Land Rovers quieter than hard tops (as well as better looking and more fun) as there is less sheet metal to hum and resonate.
Bodywork:
One of the most lovely aspects of this Land Rover is the irreplaceable patina that is so charming with just the right level of wear to all the surfaces from years of passing hands and feet (and brambles and trees) that is visible all over the vehicle. There are marks, dents, worn through paint and scratches all over the body. Each panel tells a story. As the pictures show the paint shines up very respectably, and to my mind is the perfect condition for an old Land Rover. I believe it is mainly original paint though some touching up has obviously been done.
Summary:
If you are looking for a Series Land Rover I believe this to be the most original yet usable Land Rovers on the market today. This charming originality just cannot be replicated with a restored example and the smell alone of this wonderful old machine makes ownership a joy. It’s great fun to turn up to country events, next to the lines of new Range Rovers and Discoverys and sparks conversation wherever you go. Ready to be used and enjoyed or preserved for the next generation. I would like her to go to a like minded collector enthusiast and would prefer she stays in this country.
Please do not hesitate to ask any questions.
