• Brilliant and versatile 4x4

 • Fantastic patina

 • 2,286cc diesel engine

 • Simple DIY maintenance

Launched in 1958, the Series II continued the appeal of the Land Rover with revised bodywork styling to cover the vehicle’s wider track. Initially with either a 2-litre petrol engine or 2.25-litre diesel from the Series I, power outputs were gradually increased and features refined.  

Available as short or long wheel base models, around 250,000 Land Rovers had been produced at the Solihull factory by 1959 (selling better than Rover cars). These versatile and rugged vehicles were offered with a wide range factory options and configurations. They continued to conquer the world with the Series IIA some 18 months later and the rest is history!…

First registered in the 1st of July 1959, this 88” Series II appears to have resided in the rural county of Cornwall for many years. Indeed the previous lady owner lived in St.Austell and occasionally used it to tow a horse box. She is said to have been very sad to see her beloved Land Rover go.

The accompanying receipts list some recently fitted parts including a water pump from Country 

Rovers (Taunton) Ltd and paint, sealing rubbers and a temperature sensor from specialist suppliers Mid Cornwall 4x4 Parts and Accessories Ltd. A new battery was also fitted in 2020.

The current owner purchased it on the 18th November 2021 and reports that this “Landy” has clearly been looked after over the years. He has simply used it as a run around and reports no issues with it’s performance. 

Other than the up to date V5 and a handful of receipts for the aforementioned parts, the paper trail has been lost. The V5 confirms that this Series II is recorded as a ‘light 4x4 utility’.

Looking online, the last MOT expired in September 2006 but the exempt tax runs until 1st November 2022. 

The simple and authentic cab is as you would expect and appears unmolested and consummate with it’s age. The steering wheel looks original along with the Jaeger instrumentation, warning lights and switches. The Vin plate and 4-wheel drive instruction plate is in-situ.

The gear-levers, handbrake and foot pedals are in a ‘used’ condition, but perfectly in-keeping. Vacuum wipers and a Smiths heater feature and the 3 vinyl front seats and rear side-facing seat have been re-trimmed and are in very good condition.

The bulkhead, floor and transmission tunnel all look solid although the door window frames have some rust holes. The owner will include some better replacements. The galvanised hood frame is fine and the rear load area is tidy.   

We don’t know if this short-wheel base example has been repainted, but as it stands, the faded

Marine Blue paintwork looks just how a 63 year old Land Rover should. “Patina” definitely defines it’s overall description. A mop and polish should clearly revive the paint if you wish.  

The aluminium panels are very straight and dent-free and any small areas of surface rust are largely confined to the windscreen frame, door window frames, and fuel filler cap. The galvanised front grille and bumpers are all good and the Lucas lights, whilst not perfect, are acceptable.

A virtually new and unmarked canvas tilt top looks great and should keep the interior dry for years to come. Looking underneath, we can see that the chassis and outriggers may of had some welding or replacement sections. The owner is unsure when this was carried out but everything looks structurally solid and painted. Naturally there is some surface rust here and there. 

   

The standard steel wheels are presentable and carry a set of older Michelin 4x4 tyres with plenty of tread, plus a roadworthy spare is mounted behind the front seats. An adjustable height tow bar, electrics and useful optional external drive shaft are available at the rear.   

This Series II has the slightly more powerful 2,286cc OHV diesel engine mated to a four-speed gearbox and, naturally, the 4x4 transfer ‘box with low and high ratios. The current mileage reading of 17,937 may suggest more of course, but the owner is unable to confirm this. 

There is a bit of smoke upon start up, but it soon clears. Despite the lack of physical service history, the owner understands that it was serviced regularly by the previous owner and points out that new half shaft seals have been installed. He assures us that everything functions as it should and it is fun to drive.

This cool, go-anywhere Series II has bucket loads of character and is arguably the one to have.

Capable of literally going anywhere, it is easy to maintain, and although being a short wheel base, is capable of transporting numerous mates, straw bales or tools. 

Already up together, this appreciating classic “Landy” is ready to enjoy as is or would make a great base to improve upon.