Highlights
- Highly original Series IIA Land Rover in single family ownership since new
- Recent subject of a sympathetic, no expense spared restoration by Land Rover specialists, with costs totalling circa £20,000
- Low mileage of 40,543 miles
The Appeal
Realising the need for rugged and versatile transportation in the immediate post-war period, Rover engineer Maurice Wilks set about designing a light agricultural and utility vehicle which would be as capable in the fields as on the roads.
The result of these endeavours, the Land Rover, was an immediate success and consequently played an essential part in the rebuilding of the UK following the war. Initially released as a single model offering, the Land Rover soon developed into a range of vehicles offering different wheel-base lengths and body styles.
Arriving in 1958, the Series II Land Rover differed significantly from its predecessor. David Bache redesigned the body, producing the ‘barrel-side’ appearance and also improved the design of the truck-cab variant, giving rise to its curved side windows and rounded roof. Underneath the aluminium skin, sat a new 2.25-litre petrol motor producing 72 BHP.
Progressive development of the Series II led in 1961 to the arrival of the Series IIA, an example of which we offer here for auction. Differences between the Series II and IIA models are subtle and include changes to headlamp appearance, internal vent flap controls, wing-pressings for indicator light placement and position of the horn control.
The particular example offered here is a very special Series IIA indeed. Coming from one family ownership since new in 1964 and having recently undergone a sympathetic no expense spared restoration, it now presents in a highly original condition, with the recent works meaning it is also in very fine mechanical fettle.
All in all, this Series IIA represents a truly unmissable opportunity to acquire a charmingly original and highly sought classic Land Rover.
The History and Paperwork
- V5C present, listed as 1 former keeper (Owner’s father)
- First registered June 1964
- Itemised invoices from HWB Automotive detailing the circa £20,000 recommissioning work undertaken during 2022
- Collection of older invoices relating to previous service work undertaken
The Interior
- Wonderfully original interior with the sensible upgrade of modern seatbelts
- Practical three abreast seating arrangement
- Odometer displaying 40,543 original miles
Stepping up and into this Series IIA one cannot fail to be struck by its originality and charm. Aficionados will soon realise that all the interior features specific to the Series IIA model are present and correct. These include: the lever-type vent flap controls, the body-coloured instrument surround, and the wheel-mounted horn push.
Looking through the extensive work undertaken by HWB Automotive, it’s clear that this Landy’s owner has also been equally fastidious when it comes to interior equipment functionality. For example, there are costs noted which relate to interior switchgear and fan heater repairs. Indeed, speaking to the owner it’s clear an important aim was to return all componentry to original operating condition.
Although it could never be described as brimming with technology(!), it’s great to see that what is here works. The only concession to modernity is the sensible addition of seat belts, which only serve to enhance the vehicle’s safety and functionality.
The Exterior
- Fabulous original exterior condition with HWB Automotive undertaking appropriate restorative work only where required
- Attractive ‘pick-up’ type body style with original roof supports over rear truck
- Gorgeous shade of dark green paint with the irreplaceable patina of a life well lived
- Cab can be removed and driven open topped for summer months
To many, the sight of this Series IIA will be the archetypal image of a Land Rover. Wearing its innumerable dents and scuffs with a certain honesty and pride, we think that its owner has got the tone of this restoration just right.
Looking through the recently completed work it’s clear that yet again the necessary jobs were undertaken without making the mistake of over-restoration. For example, corrective work was taken to fix the rear loading door and straighten the nearside door pillar, also door seals have been replaced and new wing mirrors fitted.
The result of all this work is a Series IIA which sits very nicely on its chunky tyres and looks ready for just about anything!
The Mechanics
- All mechanical and structural issues requiring attention attended to by marque specialist during the recent documented restoration
- Now in fabulous running condition
This Land Rover now presents in fine mechanical and structural fettle following its recent restoration and is ready to resume its duties – whether this be sunny afternoon jaunts in the country or moving hay between fields.
As one would expect following its extensive restoration, the owner reports that now this Series IIA starts briskly and runs very well indeed.
One thing is for certain, this Land Rover is far from a museum piece and deserves to be back out doing what Maurice Wilks intended way back in 1948.
Summary
This low mileage and highly original Land Rover is being offered to the market for the first time since being purchased new back in 1964. Recently coming from a full and sympathetic restoration, it truly represents a unique and special opportunity.
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.
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