In many ways, the Series II and IIA are the epitome of the classic Land Rover. Introduced in 1958, the new body design added a touch of stye to the original utilitarian mix, becoming the first Land Rover to feature the model’s famous ‘barrel sides’, which were as much about practicality as they were about improving the looks, as they increased cabin space and elbow room - albeit to a still fairly cramped level. But hey, this is an old Land Rover and utilitarianism is part of its appeal, if not the very core.
The SII/IIA was also the first to feature a choice of 88 or 109-inch wheelbases, which would go on to be used on Series Land Rover models right up until 1986, when the Series models were still sold alongside their coil-sprung successors.
This example is a 1965 Series IIA in ‘proper’ Land Rover form – bench rear seats, a canvas tilt and precious little in the way of creature comforts. Just how they should be, indeed, for the full immersive experience.
It was restored over a four-year period from 2013 to 2017 and comes with a folder full of bills pertaining to the work carried out covering over £2,000 in parts alone. The vendor is a big Land Rover fan and bought the SIIA to scratch an itch, but now he has his Twisted Defender back on the road the old-school Series is surplus to requirements and ready for a new loving home.
THE HISTORY AND PAPERWORK
UK V5C
MOT and tax exempt
Nine owners in 59 years
Folder full of parts invoices including receipts for new hood, seats and top-end engine overhaul components
THE INTERIOR
Retrimmed seats front and rear
New mats
Renewed gear selector levers
Twin Lucas wiper motors
Supplementary oil pressure and coolant gauges
Smith’s radiator with upgraded Clayton core
Inertia reel front seatbelts with centre lap belt and Exmoor Trim seatbelt bar
Internal door pull handles and upgraded check straps
THE EXTERIOR
Rebuilt between 2013 and 2017
Body-off repairs onto fully repaired and rust-protected chassis
Very good bulkhead with no obvious corrosion
Brand-new Exmoor Trim canvas tilt with roll-up rear and sides
Repainted in correct Bronze Green coach enamel, hand-applied but to a very good standard
Galvanised front bumper
Tow bar with electrics
External petrol filler lock
Original-type wing mirrors fitted
Door tops renewed
THE MECHANICS
2.25cc 4cyl
Top end rebuild during refurbishment
Head gasket replaced
New hub oil seals and brake shoes
New radiator, water pump and hoses
Extended axle breathers front and rear
New HT leads
Replacement shock absorbers
New master cylinder
Starts and drives well - very quiet and smooth at idle
Low and high ratios gears work as intended
Free-wheeling front hubs
SUMMARY
This is a really smart example of a rebuilt SIIA in need of nothing other than love from its next lucky keeper.
It’s in sound overall condition, with no discernible faults, and although not finished to concours standard it is completely ready to be enjoyed, either as a show vehicle or as a great example of a Series IIA that’s still more than capable of a day’s work or two.
It’s an icon, is mechanical spot-on and is really well-presented. A charming and enticing example of one of the all-time greats.
Notice to bidders
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