Highlights

Highly desirable and rare Series II short-wheelbase
Delightfully patinated, following years of farm use in Devon and Cornwall
Highly original inside, out and under the bonnet
Complete with canvas tilt, which is also suitably patinated
We’re assured that it is serviced regularly and drives very well

The Appeal

The Land Rover is a quintessential feature of the English countryside, and few fit the image of the rural idyll more aptly than this very authentic Series II. In present ownership since 2013, this original and delightfully patinated Land Rover has spent much of its life working the land on farms across Devon and Cornwall. While its bodywork tells the tale of hard graft, it’s clear that this car has been cherished throughout its 62-year existence as its ‘Birmabright’ panels have survived remarkably well for a Land Rover of this vintage.

In production from 1958 to 1961, the Series II remains one of the rarest and most sought after Classic Land Rover variants. It was an immensely significant vehicle in the company’s history as the first Land Rover to feature David Bache’s distinctive barrel-sided body style.

For those seeking a handsome, usable and collectable classic Land Rover, this Series II 88” ticks all the right boxes. The vendor assures us that it is serviced regularly and so is ready to drive.

The History and Paperwork

Exempt from road tax and MOT testing
V5C present
Acquired by the vendor in 2013
The DVLA records just four previous keepers
As is often the case with working vehicles, there is scant paperwork history, although we’re informed that this Series II spent the previous decade on two farms across Devon and Cornwall
Used on a regular basis and reportedly serviced regularly
The odometer currently indicates 8,634 miles, although the true figure is not known

The Interior

Largely standard Series II interior
Suitably spartan, rugged and easy to clean
This example has been carpeted for a hint of luxury
Soundproofing material has been applied to the inside of the single-skin doors
Some corrosion to the door top frames, although they’re eminently serviceable in their current condition
Original specification ‘basic’ vinyl seats three abreast
Additional benches have been added in the rear during current ownership
The controls appear original and are only moderately worn
We understand what limited instrumentation and switchgear there is to be in good working order
Now equipped with seat belts

The Exterior

Desirable 88” short-wheelbase variant
Marine Blue paintwork in very nice order overall and not too shiny
A new canvas tilt was procured within the past five years
Galvanised hood sticks, body capping and bumper all in good condition
The chassis appears very sound, with some surface corrosion
Both bulkhead and rear crossmember appear in good structural order
It would appear that some of the leaf springs are now quite heavily corroded, although we didn;t spot any fractures or signs of metal fatigue / fraying
Equipped with a towbar and trailer electrics neatly mounted within the PTO shaft aperture
Slight electrolytic corrosion to the base of the doors where the steel box section meets the aluminium alloy
Remarkably straight bodywork, with just a few small dents
Limestone steel wheels with some rich patina

The Mechanics

2.25-litre four-cylinder petrol engine
All looks to be original and largely untouched under the bonnet
Four-speed manual gearbox
Selectable four-wheel drive and low range
Reportedly running well and driving as it should
The vendor assures us that it is serviced often

Summary

There’s something rather charming about an original, unmodified Land Rover and they don’t come much more authentic than this 1961 Series II. Whether the future holds a return to the farmyard or pampering in much-deserved retirement, this old Land Rover is sure to handle it with aplomb.

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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