Highlights
- Galvanised chassis which has been painted black
- Now equipped with a 200Tdi engine, affording greater performance in modern traffic
- Sympathetically modernised with a Series III bulkhead, dashboard and doors
The Appeal
Following a decade of successful sales for what was subsequently termed the Series I, the Rover Company decided a revision of the Land Rover’s design was in order and so the Series II was unveiled in 1958. Featuring the barreled sides and basic profile that would be a feature of Land Rovers until the end of Defender production in 2016, the Series II represents an important chapter in the brand’s history.
As they are working vehicles, Land Rovers of this vintage often live hard lives and those that survive often undergo numerous modifications to keep them on the road and suited to whatever task may be in hand. This 1959 Series II is now made up of some parts from later Land Rovers, including a bulkhead, dashboard and doors from a Series III. The most significant upgrade is to be found under the bonnet where a 200Tdi engine can now be found.
If you’re looking for a usable early Land Rover that can keep up on today’s roads, then this very presentable 1959 Series II would be a fabulous candidate.
The History and Paperwork
- Rare Series II, not to be mistaken with the far more common IIA which followed in 1961
- V5C present
- Collection of old tax discs
- Numerous invoices for new parts
- Exempt from MOT testing and road tax
- Some restoration work has been carried out prior to the vendor’s ownership, including a new galvanised chassis and the fitment of the 200Tdi engine
The Interior
- New ‘deluxe’ vinyl seats fitted in the front and longitudinal benches in the rear
- Thick rubber overmats protect the floors and footwells
- Series III bulkhead and dashboard fitted and has minimal wear
- No radio fitted and the original dash cutout panel remains unaltered
- The plastics appear in reasonable condition and we think some cleaning would bring them back to their best
- All of the instrumentation and switchgear appears in good order
- The dual circuit brake warning light is currently illuminated
- Ribbed carpeting lines the rear and is in good shape
- The inner bulkhead and seat box has been painted black and bears the VIN plate
The Exterior
- Green paintwork appears really smart with only a few blemishes
- Largely straight bodywork with the spot welds and rivets still visible
- The galvanised cappings on the rear tub have been painted over in body colour
- We’re informed that aluminium door tops, hood sticks and a canvas tilt are present also and in good condition
- New lights fitted and working well
- The tailgate has been adapted to hinge to the side
- Adjustable towbar, trailer electrics, mud flaps and a galvanised step are fitted to the rear crossmember
- Galvanised chassis fitted before the vendor acquired the car and it has been painted black
- Underneath, all appears in very fine shape and the only signs of corrosion are to the leaf springs
- Finished in Limestone, the steel wheels present well and are shod with new tyres
The Mechanics
- 2.5-litre 200Tdi engine fitted
- Considering the extent of the mechanical modifications, all appears tidy under the bonnet
- Retains Series Land Rover running gear
- Freewheeling front hubs
- Reportedly drives really well with no faults to report
- Fuel cut-off switch and battery isolator fitted
Summary
The fact that this Land Rover has lived many lives and is still going strong is testament to the longevity of the original design and it also serves to demonstrate the interchangeability of parts across models.
Few ‘50s Land Rovers perform as well as this does making it an example that you could feasibly use on a regular basis.
Few ‘50s Land Rovers perform as well as this does making it an example that you could feasibly use on a regular basis.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*
A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.
All bidding, buying and offers are subject to our Terms and Conditions.
