Vendor supplied images
Highlights
- A beautifully preserved and unrestored original example
- Previously owned by an engineer from 1977 to September 2023
- Upgraded in period with the legendarily durable 3.3-litre Perkins diesel engine
- Equipped with Fairey overdrive and free-wheeling hubs
- Accompanied by original brochures, handbook, Perkins workshop manual and various other documents from the car’s past
The Appeal
Every once in a while you come across a classic you instantly recognise has been doted on for decades. This 1972 Land Rover is one such example which has been impeccably maintained by its engineer former keeper from when they purchased it in 1977 to when they parted with it in September 2023.
Besides a period engine upgrade to a 3.3-litre Perkins diesel, it remains exceptionally original, while boasting an enviable original specification which includes free-wheeling front hubs and Fairey overdrive. Unlike most Land Rover of this vintage, this Series III Station Wagon has not been worked hard, instead being used as family transport for much of its life. As a result, the interior is remarkably well-preserved and the infamously easy-to-dent ‘Birmabright’ body panels remain incredibly straight.
Since purchasing the Land Rover, the vendor has made a few small changes to return it to factory standard such as the fitment of the correct wheels and the removal of an aftermarket bull bar. They’ve also mopped the paintwork which has restored its lustrous Marine Blue finish and replaced a couple of seats while retaining the originals should the next owner wish to reupholster them.
Seldom is such a smart original example offered for sale, let alone one with such a fantastic original specification, so be sure not to miss this excellent opportunity.
The History and Paperwork
- Five registered keepers
- First registered in September 1972
- Maintained by its former keeper - an engineer since 1977
- The Perkins engine was reportedly fitted in 1977
- MOT records confirm the mileage as 115,848 miles
- Original brochures, handbook, and Perkins workshop manual included
- Acquired by the vendor in September 2023
- Used as family transport for most of its life
- Remains original and unrestored
The Condition
- Original chassis in fantastic order having been annually protected with engine oil for 47 years
- The bulkhead appears in very solid order with no apparent issues
- Commendably straight ‘Birmabright’ alloy bodywork with no obvious electrolytic deterioration
- The Marine Blue and Limestone paintwork presents impeccably following a machine polish
- There are of course a few small scuffs, commensurate with age
- The original Safari roof is still in fantastic condition
- All the galvanised components present well
- OEM wheels reinstated and shod with period-appropriate Michelin tyres
- Equipped with a rear windscreen wiper
- The original floors continue to present impeccable
- No corrosion evident to the under-seat toolbox
- New front seats fitted (originals retained and in need of reupholstering)
- The remainder of the original Station Wagon trim and upholstery is still in fantastic order with light age-commensurate patina
- Period-correct radio installed
- We’re assured all the electrics and instruments work
The Mechanics
- 3.3-litre Perkins four-cylinder diesel engine
- Four-speed manual gearbox with Fairey overdrive
- Equipped with low-range and selectable four-wheel drive
- Free-wheeling front hubs
- All presents nicely under the bonnet and the Perkins engine was clearly retrofitted to a high standard
- Equipped with a hand throttle as was standard for diesel models
- The vendor comments that the Land Rover drives very well and all the various mechanical functions perform correctly
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 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.
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