***Vendor supplied images***
Highlights
- Restored bodywork in mechanicals in present ownership
- Desirable and rare Series II variant, assembled by Santana
- Powered by the 2286 cc petrol engine which has reportedly been rebuilt
The Appeal
Just about everyone knows the origin story of the Land Rover, although we think the introduction of the Series II in 1958 was an equally important moment in 4x4 history. After a decade of strong sales of the first Land Rover, latterly referred to as the Series I, provided proof of concept for the Rover Car Company, it was the barrel-sided Series II that acted as the blueprint for Land Rover’s core models until the original Defender ceased production in 2016.
The IIA introduced further updates in 1961, so few Series II Land Rovers were made in comparison with other models. They remain very collectable and here we have a smart 1961 SWB example, assembled by Santana in Spain. We’re informed that it has been restored in present ownership, with repainted bodywork and rebuilt mechanicals, so reportedly drives exactly as it should. Featuring some curious details unique to the Santana models, this is a charming and usable classic Land Rover that would fit in well within any collection.
The History and Paperwork
- Built by Santana
- Comprehensively restored in present ownership
- Registered in Spain
- The most recent inspection of roadworthiness was carried out in March 2018, during which the seller reports that no warnings or advisory items were noted
- The odometer indicates 55,000 kilometres although this is not warranted
The Interior
- Replacement “deluxe” seats fitted up front and all in excellent order
- The original instruments, switches and controls exhibit a charming patina
- The steering wheel has reportedly been replaced
- There is a mark to the offside rear bench seat, although the nearside item is in fine order
- No headlining fitted
- OEM replacement rubber mats fitted in the front footwells
- Ribbed rubber matting lines the load bay
- All the bare aluminium and steel surfaces have been repainted to a good standard
The Exterior
- Bronze Green paintwork, resprayed in current ownership
- During the seller’s four-year period of ownership, the car has been stripped to a bare chassis, cleaned, treated and repainted
- 16” Limestone steel wheels shod with Deestone tyres
- Curious Santana-specific rear door with separate door top, similar to Series land Rover front doors
- Safari style roof panel, although with no vents, alpine lights or rear quarter windows as found in original UK-assembled versions
- Bonnet mounted spare wheel
- The ‘Birmabright’ alloy bodywork is remarkably straight for its age
- All the galvanised cappings are in fine order
- We’re informed that the windscreen frame can squeak a bit when the car is being driven
- The vendor points out that the nearside front wing is slightly misaligned
- The bulkhead and chassis both appear in good condition for their age
The Mechanics
- 2286 cc four-cylinder petrol engine
- Four-speed manual gearbox
- Selectable low range and four-wheel drive
- Wer;e informed that the engine was rebuilt
- Restored wiring loom
- Rebuilt carburettor
- The gearbox, driveline and axles have also been reconditioned according to the vendor
- Slight oil leak from the rear main crankshaft seal, which is not unusual with Land Rovers of this vintage
- New exhaust system fabricated and installed
- Said to be driving well in all gears
- Passed Spanish technical inspection in March 2018, apparently with no advisories
Summary
For those seeking an immensely presentable and mechanically healthy classic Land Rover, this Series II 88” has a lot to offer. As a rare model, it’s sure to attract a great deal of interest amongst Land Rover aficionados and some of the Santana-specific features make it particularly intriguing.
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.
✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes. On request, Car & Classic may refer you to a third-party shipping company. For more details, email auctions@carandclassic.com. Prices start at €150+VAT within the same country or €400+VAT for moves across borders.,
