Highlights
- In current ownership since 2006, reportedly always garaged
- Originally registered to the Earl of Beauchamp, with original 1957 registration document
- Service invoices and MOTs dating back to 1996
- Reportedly solid chassis with original green paintwork
- New clutch fitted in February 2026
The Appeal
The Land Rover Series One 86-inch is among the most iconic and collectable utility vehicles ever produced. With its aluminium bodywork, go-anywhere mechanicals, and rugged simplicity, the early short-wheelbase models occupy a special place in motoring history. Finding one with genuine provenance, long-term careful ownership, and honest usable condition is an increasingly rare prospect.
This 1954 example carries a distinguished history. Its original 1957 brown paper registration document reveals that the first registered keeper was the Earl of Beauchamp. It has been in the current owner's hands since 2006, reportedly garaged throughout and averaging just 400 miles per year. A supporting history file with service invoices and MOTs dating back to 1996 accompanies the vehicle.
On the mechanical front, the vendor states the engine runs well and starts easily, with its high and low-range four-wheel drive system present and correct. The original green paintwork presents well for a vehicle of over 70 years of age. Accompanying the vehicle are various spares and accessories, detailed below.
Key Information
- Mileage: 27,220 miles (unwarranted)
- Country of registration: United Kingdom
- Technical inspection status: MOT exempt
- Technical specs: 2.0-litre inline four-cylinder petrol, four-speed manual, four-wheel drive with high and low range
- Paperwork: original 1957 registration document, service invoices and MOTs back to 1996, Haynes workshop and restoration manuals, Land Rover parts catalogue and restoration manual, British Motor Industry Heritage Trust (BMIHT) certificate
The Detail
- The vendor describes the chassis as solid with good bodywork
- Original green paintwork with a few surface scratches
- Front offside wing very slightly dented from contact with a horse approximately ten years ago
- New clutch fitted in February 2026
- Converted to electronic ignition in 2020, with original distributor included
- New cross member fitted under the tub in 2025
- Canvas hood fitted approximately ten years ago
- Front capstan winch fitted with disconnected coupling, reportedly never used
- Towing ball fitted
- Three original seats with signs of wear
- All dashboard dials and switches reported as functional except the unconnected water temperature gauge
- Rear tub felt-covered with original aluminium underneath
- Five cross-country tyres and two spare wheels included
- Original jack and wheel spanner included
- Door-mounted wing mirrors added for safety
BEFORE YOU BUY
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