Early lights-behind-the-grille Series I produced in December 1949
Full nut and bolt restoration by marque specialist Jeanette (Netty) Coates, famed for her work with John Brown 4x4
Ex-ministry example retaining both its original chassis and original 1.6-litre engine
Approximately £30,000 spent on restoration, with photographic documentation throughout
Supplied with British Motor Industry Heritage Certificate and associated paperwork
The Appeal
We've arrived at an exciting moment for Land Rover collectors. This 1949 Series I 80" represents where it all began: the purest expression of the silhouette scribed in the sand of Red Wharf Bay by Maurice Wilks that would go on to become a global icon.
This 80" ex-ministry example was produced in December 1949 and retains both its original chassis and original 1.6-litre engine: a combination that is increasingly difficult to find.
Discovered on a farm in Yorkshire with all parts present but in need of restoration, the vehicle was entrusted to marque specialist Jeanette (Netty) Coates. The approximately £30,000 rebuild saw all mechanical components refurbished, the engine and gearbox reconditioned, and the vehicle sympathetically returned to its correct specification. Finished in its original Bronze Green with Green Vinyl interior trim, and fitted with brand new sand-coloured all-weather gear, it has covered just 300 miles since completion.169565379565119fa3c68ba_1948-land-rover-series-1-lights-behind-the-grill-ext-0001-layer-4 David Jordan.jpg410.68 KB
Key Information
Mileage: 300 miles since restoration; total mileage from new is unknown
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