HIGHLIGHTS

One of the batch of Land Rovers retained by the UK Home Office to be used for reconnaissance in the vent of a nuclear attack
Identified by its ‘SFX’ number plate as one of the original Civil Defence vehicles, and documented on the SFX Database
Retains its original chassis and upholstery which are both in very good condition for their age
Reportedly benefits from routine maintenance in present ownership, which spans the past twelve years
Upgraded to a 2.25-litre petrol engine during the late 1970s

THE APPEAL

As well as becoming an invaluable tool for farmers, the humble Land Rover has also played a key role in Britain’s defence, with the Armed Forces ordering their first Series I in 1949. This 1957 example is particularly interesting as it began life with the Home Office, set up as a reconnaissance vehicle in the event of nuclear attack. These Civil Defence Series Is are identified by their ‘SFX’ registration numbers and this Land Rover is acknowledged on the SFX Database.

Still finished in its period correct Demi Sheen Bronze Green and complete with its Civil Defence identification number and brass identification plate, this remains a very original and eminently presentable example. Retaining its original upholstery and chassis (besides the rear crossmember), this Land Rover is in great condition both mechanically and cosmetically and the vendor informs us that it’s ready to use. The original engine was swapped out for a later and more powerful 2.25-litre Land Rover unit during the 1970s, but otherwise we understand the mechanicals to be original Series I.

If you’re searching for a storied and well presented example of the inimitable Series I Land Rover, be sure not to miss this fine example.

THE HISTORY AND PAPERWORK

Originally registered to the UK Home Office
Intended as a reconnaissance vehicle to be used in the event of nuclear attack
Known to the SFX Database and retain its original registration plates
Accompanied by a substantial history file, detailing servicing for the past twenty years
Most of the SFX Series Is were sold off to private hands in 1972
Complete with its under-bonnet Civil Defence identification number and brass identification plate
Garage stored during the twelve years of present ownership
While the engine has of course been replaced, the vendor believes that the indicated mileage of 78,890 to be accurate and this apparently the view of the previous owner also
Exempt from road tax and MOT testing
Offered with an instruction manual

THE INTERIOR

Retain its original seats which remain in great condition
All instrumentation working with the exception of the fuel gauge
Supplied with a set of original rear passenger grab handles that have never been fitted
The original steering wheel has been restored but not fitted and there is currently a later Series wheel in place
Equipped with a jack and some tools

There’s seldom much to report with the interior of a Series Land Rover as there’s little in the way of creature comfort besides the absolute essentials.

This example reportedly retains its original seats which is quite remarkable with a car from 1957 - let alone one that was destined for hard work. The upholstery is still in great shape, with some gentle patina but certainly nothing excessive. The rubber footwell mats look smart and there’s also one in the rear that matches. The steel dashboard remains in great condition and we note it is home to a small teddy bear which the vendor informs us is called “Dorothy”...

A later Series steering wheel is currently fitted as the original sprung item has been restored in readiness for fitment. There are also a pair of grab handles for rear passengers which could also be fitted by the next owner if desired. The instrumentation and switchgear is said to work correctly with the exception of the fuel gauge which the vendor diagnoses as a potentially faulty sender unit.

THE EXTERIOR

Still finished in its original hue of Demi Sheen Bronze Green
Remarkably straight bodywork
Original chassis (besides the rear crossmember which was replaced during the late 1990s)
The bulkhead appears really solid
Equipped with a canvas tilt
Tow bar and trailer electrics installed

With soft alloy bodywork, hardworking Land Rovers are often full of dents and additional holes for various modifications so we’re pleased to report that this example is really straight and solid. There are no notable bodywork imperfections and the vendor points out that there are no extra holes drilled in the rear tub.

The attractive colour is apparently original and finished to a good standard. Underneath, the original chassis looks great, with no corrosion apparent. A new rear crossmember was fitted some years ago during the late 1990s and looks to be in good order. The same can be said of the bulkhead which has likely benefited from the car’s time in dry storage.

A lightly patinated canvas tilt completes the ensemble and lends the Land Rover the versatility of open-top driving for the warmer months. The tyres have been uprated 7.50 Michelin X to raise the ride height and reportedly provide a better ride quality. The vendor points out that the original tyre size is still employed on the bonnet-mounted spare, which ensures it is not too heavy to lift.

THE MECHANICS

2.25-litre four-cylinder petrol engine from a later Series Land Rover
Four-speed manual gearbox
Selectable low range and four-wheel drive
Running on Millers VSP fuel additive to replace lead content and prevent ethanol erosion (current bottle supplied with the car)

The vendor informs us that during the past 3,000 miles, the following work has been completed:

Overhaul of the front steering swivels
New exhaust / manifold gasket
New clutch
Fitted with a new battery (very recently)

With the more powerful 2.25-litre petrol engine from a later Series Land Rover which was reportedly fitted during the 1970s, this Series I is said to drive really well. It apparently starts readily in all weathers and runs smoothly. As with any early Land Rover, the driving experience is best described as agricultural, although we understand that the gearbox, steering and brakes all work well. Recent attention to the front swivels, exhaust and clutch has paid dividends and a new battery has been fitted really recently.

SUMMARY

With a fascinating history, this very handsome Series I is a fantastic example and we’re sure its Civil Defence connection will be of great interest to enthusiasts.

Presented in very good, usable condition, this is not one to be missed.

Notice to bidders

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