The “Series” generation Land Rovers are rapidly increasing in collectability, with the earliest examples commanding strong money for quite some time. But now, even Series IIIs are becoming quite valuable – a combination of nostalgia, ease of maintenance and a strong enthusiast following meaning they’re becoming more and more cherished.
Ones with a story are always well-liked, and this one has a great tale to tell, having been owned by the Ministry of Defence from new until 2020, when it was first registered for private use. Prior to private ownership, the likelihood is that it was kept in reserve for many years – indeed, there are still hundreds of older Land Rovers on the MOD fleet, albeit few as old as this one.
Built in January 1981, it was original despatched to Army Central Supplies in Ashurst, Gloucestershire, and carried the military registration number 04-HH-72.
It was registered to its current and only private keeper in March 2021 and has been used as a hobby vehicle ever since.
The History and Paperwork
UK V5C
MOT, ULEZ and tax exempt
Originally registered to the British Army and didn’t enter private ownership until 2021
Mileage believed genuine but there is no paperwork or MOT history to back this up
However, ex-MOD trucks are generally low-mileage, especially when they have been kept I reserve for many years, where they are still maintained and kept ready-to-go
The Interior
12-seater cabin
Original MOD low-back front seats with central jump seat
Rear bench seats
All dials and switches work as intended
General wear and tear to painted floors and dash top
Lever-operated ventilation flaps
Split tailgate
Large load bay
Full-size spare wheel
Rear tool hatch behind wheel arch
Basic and utilitarian, but brimming with charm
MOD radio control knob in centre of dash
The Exterior
Chassis appears strong with replacement front and rear outriggers
Very good bulkhead with no obvious corrosion
Crossmembers all appear to be in sound and solid condition
Originally NATO green and repainted in original MOD colour scheme
Various scuffs, marks and dents all over, all part of this vehicle’s remarkable unspoilt, unrestored charm
Original army-spec Goodyear all-terrain tyres
Matt black grille and light guards
Original MOD canvas tilt in functional order with some wear
MOD-style bumpers
NATO tow hitch
Bonnet-mounted spare
The Mechanics
Original 2.25cc 4cyl
Recommissioned in 2021 when truck was privately registered
Starts and runs sweetly
Army-maintained for most of its life
Transmission operates perfectly in both high and low range
Reported by the vendor to drive very well
Summary
This is a deeply characterful Land Rover that wears it history on its flanks for all to see – it’s far from concours, but that’s all-part of its ex-military charm. This is a Land Rover that no doubt has a few tales of its own to tell – a genuine survivor
Neither modified nor restored, it’s a highly original example of an Army Land Rover, which will appeal to both Land Rover fans and military vehicle collectors alike.
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 of this vehicle is registered as a business seller. And you are covered by Car & Classic’s 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.
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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 [email protected]
