The 1979 Land Rover Lightweight was built to the British Army's spec, intended to be disassembled and transported by their new class of Wessex helicopter, and replacing the venerable Austin Champ. It was an interesting challenge, and delivered in the end only to never particularly require the use of a helicopter. All the same, they were rugged, versatile, and ideal for water and rail transport - so they enjoyed an impressive military service life regardless.
By the millenium, much of the half-tonner fleet was entering the end of its feasible military life, and was being sold off for private and civilian concerns. With an interesting provenance to each, and those essential LR characteristics all present and correct, they're now a highly desirable off-roader.
This particular vehicle comes with both hard and soft tops, along with a range of spare parts such as a spare differential, tow, and benches.
History and Paperwork
Built in 1979 for Military Service
Disposed to Civilian concern in 2002
The DVLA records a repaint in 2005
The DVLA records 2 previous keepers
In current ownership since October 2023
Purchased from a family member last autumn
Full military history paperwork
MOT exempt
Currently indicates 2419 miles on a five-figure odometer however, MOT history shows 78520 November 2011. Vendor states that a new odometer was then fitted, with a recorded mileage of 82 miles in November 2012. It is believed that the car has achieved a total of the figures quoted as the present reading, and the one quoted in November 2011. Just over 80,000
The Condition
The car comes to us in a working patina
Paintwork has dulled with some dents, dings and marks here and there
Some corrosion and blistering, commensurate with age
Some paint peel to the roof and bumpers
Underside is well-worn and carries some corrosion
Interior is equally careworn with some chips, marks and corrosion
Driver's seat is carrying a new bolster
No rips or tears to the upholstery
All instruments are clear and legible
Original demisters still in situ
Comes with hard and soft top
Includes spare wheel
Includes original driver seat
Includes spare tow
Includes extensive mod lights
Includes spare benches
The Mechanics
2.25L Rover I4 powerplant
Manual transmission with 4 gears
FFR 24v ignition system
We note signs of an oil leak underneath the car
This is fairly standard for a Land Rover of this age
Rear chassis has reportedly been renewed
Mechanically standard
Includes spare differential
The vendor reports that it drives well with no reported mechanical issues
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:
✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..
✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.
✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.
✓ 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.
✓ We want a smooth transaction just as much as you do and as such we run all UK-registered cars and motorbikes for sale on Car & Classic through an online HPI check to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing, allowing you to bid with confidence.
✓ We also check whether vehicles are recorded as being written off as part of an insurance total loss claim at the time an advert is placed on Car & Classic and we helpfully provide write-off category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) for your assistance. However, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the vehicle’s status and it is always worthwhile carrying out your own full vehicle history check before making an offer on a vehicle.
✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection
or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it’s worth checking beforehand.. If requested, we may refer you to a third-party shipping company who can help. For more details and to speak to the team, email auctions@carandclassic.com
