Highlights
- Desirable SWB station wagon with rear windows and safari roof
- Built during the first year of Series 2 production
- Owned by 1 family from new
The Appeal
The advent of the Series 2 in 1958 marked an important milestone for Land Rover as the new shape designed by David Bache and his team would essentially form the basic template for Land Rovers until Defender production finally ceased in 2016.
Here we have a lovely example of an early Series 2, registered on 1st January 1959, which, remarkably, has remained in the same family all these years. While some estimate that around 70% of Land Rovers ever made are still roadworthy, Series 2 examples are harder to come by as in 1961, they were superseded by the Series 2A.
That makes this a very rare beast indeed: an unmolested Series 2 that has been treasured by a single family from new. As such, it would make a fine addition to any collection.
That makes this a very rare beast indeed: an unmolested Series 2 that has been treasured by a single family from new. As such, it would make a fine addition to any collection.
The History and Paperwork
- Owned by one family from new
- Passed from father to son
- Then passed from son to sister and then her partner in 2008
- Stored in a heated garage when not in use since 1997
- Independent service history evidenced by a number of old invoices
- V5C present
- Collection of old MOT certificates
The Interior
- ‘Elephant hide’ upholstery in good overall condition
- The folding rear seats have a few tears but remain quite serviceable
- 3-abreast seat set in the cabin presents well with a few marks and stains
- The door cards are complete with armrests and also finished in ‘Elephant hide’ vinyl
- Seatbelts fitted and in working order
- Part of the original style Hardura felt matting remains on the bulkhead and transmission tunnel
- The footwells have since been carpeted in blue
- The seatbox ends have also been covered
- A vinyl headlining is fitted and is in very good shape
- The spartan metal dashboard has been repainted in an anti-chip finish and lined with carpet
- Original style sprung steering wheel
- The interior light is currently non-functional but all of the instrumentation is reported to be in full working order
The Exterior
- Limestone paint presents well overall
- While there are a few blemishes and evidence of past paint correction, the bodywork looks to be remarkably straight for a Land Rover of this vintage
- All of the galvanised cappings and bumper appear to be in good condition
- Retrofitted later check straps and door tops would suggest these to be replacement doors
- The bulkhead looks to be in good order and without corrosion in the usual areas
- The correct Series 2 vent flaps are fitted as is denoted by the screws rather than spot welds
- Only one windscreen wiper is current fitted
- The glass all appears in good shape
- The vendor tells us that it has never been welded
- The rear crossmember wears quite thick paint but appears in solid condition
- The chassis is reportedly in good order
The Mechanics
- 2.25-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine
- New radiator
- The steering swivel ball joints have been replaced
- Parabolic leaf springs have been recently fitted, along with with uprated shock absorbers
- New fuel tank
- The brakes have been overhauled
- New battery, ignition coil, distributor cap, rotor arm, plugs and HT leads
- Recent oil and filter change
- Tappets adjusted and carburettor serviced
- Now has a non-standard air filter - the original oil bath unit is supplied
- There are a few small fluid leaks as is not unusual with Land Rovers
- Runs well and is perhaps quieter and smoother than you might expect
Summary
There’s something really special about bumbling around in a Series Land Rover that just makes you grin from ear to ear. Here we have a nicely presented example of the rare Series 2 that has been enjoyed by the same family from new. This is your chance to write the next chapter in its history.
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.
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