Description
Produced from 1971 to 1985, The Land Rover Series III represents the final evolution of the original Land Rover Series line. Built with rugged simplicity in mind, it featured a boxy aluminium body, leaf-spring suspension, and switchable four-wheel drive, making it highly capable in rough terrain. The Series III introduced a fully synchronized gearbox, improving on-road drivability, was available with various petrol and diesel engine options, and it laid the groundwork for what would later become the Land Rover Defender.
Rescued from a pub’s back garden, this vehicle was brought back to life by a previous owner through a comprehensive recommissioning programme, including a new hood and a full
exterior respray. Once returned to the road it proved dependable in daily use, though the original 2. 2-litre diesel engine, while reliable, struggled to deliver the performance needed for the hills of North Devon.
The solution came in the form of a 3. 5-litre Rover V8, originally sourced from a Discovery. The engine had already undergone a complete professional overhaul and rebuild and was carefully stored under cover for nearly a decade, awaiting the right project. When the opportunity arose, an MD Engineering installation kit was employed, with a local fabrication specialist carrying out all required modifications before installing the freshly rebuilt V8 into its new home.
Breathing through aftermarket air filters and a Steve Parker exhaust system, the V8 now delivers a healthy 130 bhp and approximately 200 lb-ft of torque — comfortably more than double the output of the original engine and transforming the driving experience.
Further upgrades include Range Rover differentials, oversized wheels and off-road tyres, enhancing both capability and stance. To address clearance requirements, a remote oil filter relocation kit has been fitted. Cooling is managed by an electric fan with thermostatic control, supplemented by a dashboard-mounted manual override.
The chassis appears in very good condition - please see the photographs added to this listing.
The result is a characterful, well-sorted vehicle that combines classic charm with V8 performance and genuine usability.
This Land Rover was also subject to a magazine feature in Class Land Rover magazine - a copy of which comes with the car.
Viewing is advised to appreciate this lovely slice of Land Rover automotive history. Vehicle Overview
Original Vehicle: 1984 Series III
Current Vehicle Acquisition: February 2025
Current Engine: 3. 5L V8 petrol (swapped in July 2022)
Service Documentation: Old MOT certificates, various receipts and invoices
Key Service and Mechanical Work
December 2020 – Mileage: 68, 421
Large service at previous ownership
Work included:
Front propshaft replacement
Brake lines replacement
Both front and rear brakes replaced
Cost: ~£600
July 2022 – Engine Conversion & Upgrades
Diesel engine removed
3. 5L V8 petrol fitted
Fasset electric fuel pump installed
Revotec electric fan installed
Remote oil filter system installed
May 2024 – Engine Repairs
Engine running poorly, diagnosed to find:
Two damaged rockers
Cam followers replaced
Pushrods replaced
Other sundry items replaced
Cost: ~£1, 200
May 2025 – Major Service by Land Rover Specialist
Replaced engine mounts
Front dampers replaced
Fuel tank cleaned and treated
New NSF wheel bearing
New rear leaf springs and dampers
Other sundry works
Cost: Just under £2, 000
Observations
The vehicle has been meticulously maintained with major mechanical work at regular intervals.
The engine swap to a 3. 5L V8, along with modern upgrades (electric fuel pump, electric fan, remote oil filter), improves reliability and drivability over the original diesel.
Suspension, brakes, and wheel bearings have all been renewed in the last few years, indicating strong ongoing upkeep.
Maintenance costs are significant but show the vehicle has been cared for by specialists.
Since MOT's have been digital the Land Rover has only averaged 1, 661 miles per year since 2005 however it has been maintained to the highest standards.
