Highlights
- NOS original Series I engine fitted in July 1998
- Voluntarily MOT-tested and free from advisories
- A highly original early 88” example
- Subject to extensive work during present ownership and copious new components
The Appeal
Throughout Series I production, Rover made small adjustments to the Land Rover’s wheelbase. It began at 80” between the wheel centres, later growing to 88” and mid-way through 1956, a further 2” was added to accommodate a new diesel engine. This 88” formula would remain unaltered for short-wheelbase models for the next 25 years! We’re delighted to offer one of the first 88” Land Rovers, a highly original, sympathetically restored Series I which has benefitted from a great deal of work during present ownership.
Few Land Rovers of this vintage can boast an engine with with such a low mileage on the clock - but this one can thanks to the fitment of an ultra-rare New Old Stock replacement sourced from Dunsfold Land Rovers LTD in 1998. The bulkhead has been replaced with a well-regarded Radford item and recent work includes the fitment of new suspension, new Exmoor Trim upholstery and a fresh canvas tilt from Undercover Covers. Helpfully, the vendor provides a comprehensive list of the work carried out, as well as identifying numerous coveted original features. (We have included these lists below).
Voluntarily submitted for MOT testing for peace of mind and now sporting an advisory-free certificate, this very smart Land Rover is ready for its next custodian.
The History and Paperwork
- Chassis No: 111700644
- Engine No: 36132909 - believed to be one of the unused Minerva engines purchased by Dunsfold Land Rovers LTD was fitted in 1998 at 82,668 miles
- Exempt from MOT, ULEZ and road tax
- Voluntarily MOT tested: valid until 23rd November 2024
- Originally registered in 1956 in Worcestershire (Copy of registry entry available)
- Little is known of the car’s early history - it was re-registered in 1995
- Purchased in 1996 by the previous owner and passed to his father following a serious health problem in 2014. We understand that during the previous ownership it was only used for short commutes and domestic journeys. During the current ownership driving has been confined to occasional short journeys related to maintenance and testing.
- The odometer was replaced with a new NOS Jaeger odometer in 2002
Documentation includes:
- Extensive folder of receipts for servicing and replacement items.
- Land Rover 1948 – 58 Series 1, Workshop Manual, – March 1960
- Land Rover 1954- 57 Series 1, Parts Catalogue – June 1956
- Land Rover Series 1 Instruction manual – June 1959
- Autopress Workshop Manual
- Large collection of past issues of the Series 1 Club journal ‘Legend’
The Condition
- Original bodywork in good condition very straight with only minor imperfections
- The exterior and rear tub were re-sprayed in 2015
- The cabin retains the original patinated paint finish
- Four new Deestone – Extra Traction 6.00x16 tyres and inner tubes (2023)
- Spare wheel with unused Firestone 6.00 x 16 tyre
- New canvas tilt from Undercover Covers (2023)
- New Exmoor Trim green seat backs and cushions (2023)
- New Radford Bulkhead - etch primed and two-pack coated
- Original chassis
- Front outriggers repaired and treated with Dinitrol (2023)
- New tub support rails (2023)
- New ignition switch
- Refurbished Land Rover wire spoke steering wheel
- New front bumper and tow lifting eyes
- New sliding Perspex front door windows
- New wing mirrors and supports
- New door seals and rubber bumpers
Desirable period-correct features include:
- Driver and nearside Lucas wiper motors (nearside park bracket in need of replacement)
- Lucas glass headlights and sidelights
- ‘Pork-pie’ rear lights
- Front bumper mounted Lucas spotting light (not currently operational).
- Swan-neck gear stick with new knob
- Original Lucas under-bonnet horn
- Rear universal ball trailer hitch and electrical outlet (not tested)
- Starter handle
- Rover rubber floor mats
- Accessories also include a 10-litre steel ‘Jerry’ can and a trolley jack
As the above lists are a testament to, this Land Rover is commendably original and has received a superb standard of maintenance. The end result is a perfect balance between original patina and sympathetic restoration - a level of finish that takes real skill to achieve.
The Mechanics
- 2.0-litre four cylinder petrol engine
- Four-speed manual gearbox with selectable low-range and four-wheel-drive
- Original radiator
- Original Solex carburettor
- Period-correct Smith’s heater unit (demister nozzles missing)
Work carried out includes:
- Replacement engine (1998)
- Leaf springs and shocks renewed (2023)
- New odometer
- New battery fitted (2023)
- Battery retaining clamp replaced
- New clutch plates
- New chrome front ball joints
- Rebuilt gearbox including new lay shaft bearings.
- Brake master cylinder
- Stainless steel petrol tank, cap and filler tube.
- Fuel pump replaced
- New fuel lines
- New starter motor
- New dynamo
- Dynamo retaining bracket repaired
- New water pump
- New ‘Autosparks” wiring loom
We’re informed that this Land Rover rides firmly on its new suspension and drives exactly as it should. We’re pleased to report that the mechanicals have received the same superlative care and attention as the rest of the car and the advisory-free current MOT confirms this. The low-mileage, NOS replacement engine is something really special, making this just about as close to driving a Series I in period as you could possibly find.
This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:
✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..
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✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.
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