Brilliantly preserved, with plenty of original components, and a delightful patina
Offered in fantastic mechanical condition, with no known faults to note
Benefits from excellent maintenance history, with plenty of documents to show
Boasts just 3 former keepers
The Appeal
Perhaps one of the most influential vehicles of all time, the Land Rover Series 1 marked the dawn of a new age, introducing a hardy, four-wheel drive utility vehicle for the masses. Inspired by the likes of the Willys Jeep and amidst the aftermath of WW2, the Series 1 would use its dependable drivetrain and corrosion-resistant aluminium bodywork to its advantage, offering a very capable, and durable platform.
Due to their impact on the motoring world and as a result of their continually impressive capability, Series 1 Land Rovers remain highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts across the globe. Although plenty of these hardy 4x4s are still in use today, very few hold the same prowess as this particular example, which stands proudly in a mostly original condition, with just 3 former keepers, and an astonishing 24 thousand miles on the clock.
Opportunities to obtain such an impressive Series 1 are only increasing in rarity, making this a superb chance to add a low mileage, low owner example to your collection.
The History and Paperwork
First registered on the 13th of November, 1953
Enjoyed by just 3 former keepers
Incredibly low mileage, offered with just 24K miles
Excellent history, with the following included;
The BMIHT heritage certificate
Previous MOT certificates dating back to 1978
Invoices for maintenance, and repairs
The current, and previous V5C document
Comes ready to enjoy, with 2 sets of keys
As per the included heritage certificate, this Series 1 was initially dispatched to the Ministry of Supply in 1953. The vehicle would then make its way to its first private keeper in Coventry, before being acquired by the second keeper in Suffolk, in 1979.
It is believed the vehicle was garage stored throughout this time, evidently being savoured for special occasions, before being sold once again in 2018. Since 2018, the vehicle has been cared for in dry storage, and now awaits its next lucky keeper, who will no doubt be thoroughly impressed by this fantastic machine.
Additional history for the vehicle can be found within a rather impressive collection of documents, which includes a selection of maintenance invoices, the heritage certificate, the current V5C document, and various sundries. Also included are previous MOT certificates, dating all the way back to 1978, with just 3,839 miles noted.
The Interior
Incredibly practical, with plenty of cargo space
Offered in great condition, with a light patina
Features plenty of original components
The cabin of this Series 1 is wonderfully minimal, offering very generous cargo space, and a blissfully simple driving experience, free from clutter. The interior has also been very well preserved too, now offering only a light patina, and tidy seating to enjoy. In fact, with the exception of a few incredibly minor signs of age, each seat still offers plenty of comfort and retains a very impressive finish.
The dashboard and accompanying instruments follow suit, presenting tidy original kit, with very few signs of age. As pictured, the steering wheel does of course show a few minor repairs and blemishes, but this is certainly a worthy trade for what is very likely also an original component.
Overall, the interior leaves little to be further desired; it’s practical, spacious, minimal and remains on par with the characterful exterior patina. That said, it would of course offer an excellent base for restoration, having retained an impressive amount of original components throughout the years.
The Exterior
Iconic Series 1 Land Rover styling
Charming paintwork, with a tasteful patina
Features plenty of original details
Presented in great condition for its age, offering fantastic potential
As this now 70-year-old Land Rover has aced the test of time, it should come as no surprise that the exterior sports plenty of character, with a delightful patina to show. Believed to be mostly original, the exterior is also free from notable modification and presents a fantastic canvas for the future buyer to either enjoy in its current state or restore as desired.
In addition to the charming paintwork, and original trim components, this Series 1 also offers a classic set of 16” steel wheels. The wheels show their fair share of light patina and come wrapped in pairs of Security & Deestone tyres, with plenty of tread left to enjoy.
Overall, the exterior of this Series 1 is an excellent showcase of what makes these early Land Rovers so desirable. Years of dependable motoring and hardy durability are preserved with a light patina, making this a fantastic candidate for any historic collection, or low-mileage restoration project.
The Mechanics
Runs and drives brilliantly, with no known faults to note
Very well maintained, with plenty of history to show
Fitted with a new fuel tank, and treated to a chassis steam clean & treatment in 2015
Received new clutch linkages, new fuel tank outriggers, new spark plugs and repairs to the gearbox cross-member in 2014
Fitted with new wheel cylinders in 2013
Equipped with a new clutch, output bearing and seal in 2010
Ready to be enjoyed by the lucky new keeper
Buyers will be pleased to know that this charming Series 1 lives up to its dependable reputation, and fires up right away. No doubt a result of excellent care, thorough maintenance and a low mileage figure, the vehicle performs admirably, with no known mechanical or electrical faults to note. Further to the vehicle’s merit, a great deal of the drivetrain and mechanical components are indeed believed to be original, save for the expected consumables and service items of course.
Summary
The Series 1 should be on the list of any collector, for its sheer impact on the motoring world, and for paving the way for Land Rover’s legacy. This particular example is no doubt one of the most attractive available today, boasting just 3 former keepers, an incredibly low 24k on the clock, excellent history, brilliant mechanical health, and a charming patina.
If you’re in the market for a low mileage example of one of the most iconic, and collectable Land Rovers to date, this is the vehicle for you.
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.
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