Highlights

Straight and original with a rich patina
Early 2.0-litre example with free-wheeling hubs
Brand new canvas tilt fitted
Benefits from MOT and road tax exemption as well as ULEZ compliance
An excellent basis for further recommissioning or restoration

The Appeal

Taking inspiration from the wartime Willys Jeep, the legend goes that Rover boss Maurice Wilks demonstrated his ideas for the Land Rover by drawing lines in the sand of Anglesey’s Red Wharf Bay. It’s a fabulous story and a fitting start to the life of a vehicle which would owe its success to its simplicity, going on to become one of the most successful 4x4s of all time.

We’re delighted to offer this charming Series I which dates from 1951, just three years into Land Rover production. A testament to their ruggedness, it’s still in good condition over seven decades on and exhibits a rich patina.

Presented in running and moving order although unused for some time, this Land Rover would be an excellent basis for further recommissioning or restoration work. Early examples such as this are increasingly collectable and benefit from road tax, MOT and ULEX exemption, so don’t miss this opportunity to get your hands on an honest and original example.

The History and Paperwork

Right-hand drive UK-supplied example
11 former registered keepers
Rare and desirable 80” wheelbase model and amongst the first to feature 2.0-litre engines
Exempt from road tax and MOT testing
ULEZ compliant according to Transport For London
Unused for some years and therefore offered for recommissioning

The Condition

New canvas tilt fitted and in impeccable condition
The bodywork and interior boast an attractive patina
For a Land Rover of this vintage, the bodywork is very straight and has evidently been repainted some years ago
The vendor states that the chassis appears “generally solid” and indeed it looks to be fundamentally sound
OEM steel wheels shod with Goodyear off-road tyres
It would appear that the tyres are now rather old and beginning to perish
The galvanising has been overpainted in places
Inside, the original controls present well, with some wear as is to be expected
Instrumentation and switchgear in good visible order
Presentable seat upholstery
No door tops are fitted or supplied

The Mechanics

2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine
Four-speed manual gearbox
Selectable low-range and four-wheel-drive
Unused for many years, although in running and moving order
The vendor notes that there may be a fuel pump fault as sometimes is difficult to start and they can hear the pump ticking
The clutch may need adjustment or replacement as while it works, the pedal bite-point is quite low
The engine starts and the Land Rover drives with no obvious faults other than those noted, however, this vehicle is being auctioned as needing a good going over before any use as there may be additional faults which are not noted

BEFORE YOU BUY

This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:

✓ If the seller is registered as a private seller, consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not apply. Car & Classic’s return policy applies.

✓ A non-refundable deposit will be payable if you are the winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for details.

✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is, Where Is’ basis and without warranty. A full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase and bidding is highly recommended. Photos and descriptions are for guidance purposes only.

✓ VAT is included in the buyer's deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.

✓ UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check, to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing.

✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection or delivery.