Highlights
- Former military Land Rover
- Still has a five-figure mileage
- Believed to retain original engine
- Improved Series III synchro gearbox
- Features a wealth of military detailing
The Appeal
Picture an early Land Rover, and you probably imagine a Series IIA. Back in the early 1970s, these go-anywhere vehicles were far from luxurious, yet they still incorporated many elements deemed superfluous by the military, who commissioned Land Rovers in their thousands for active service across the UK and overseas.
This particular vehicle is a Lightweight Series IIA model from 1972, living up to its name by banishing anything as suburban as carpets or dashboard padding. Presented in military colours and retaining a tailgate-mounted military-issue shovel, this stripped-out vehicle conducted nine years of military service before being honourably discharged onto Civvy Street. Its current owner acquired it back in 2006, since when it has been routinely maintained and stored indoors when not in use.
From its canvas roof to the military markings along its doors, there is absolutely nothing refined about this Land Rover. And that’s rather the point. Vehicles with bonnet-mounted spare wheels, sliding side windows and exposed wires across their bare metal dashboards are clearly utilitarian in nature. The dash itself is populated with period dials, rocker switches and the occasional Rover Company vehicle plaque; even the fire extinguisher appears to be to original military specifications.
During its lengthy current ownership, the vehicle’s brakes have been overhauled, alongside replacement shock absorbers, a new carburettor and driver’s side fuel tank. Sympathetic upgrades include a disc based handbrake and a 12V conversion from the original 24V FFR (Fitted For Radio) configuration. Other electrical modifications include a new wiring loom, upgraded headlights, new electronic ignition coil and HT leads. Other than a welcome all-synchromesh Series III gearbox upgrade, everything else appears to be original, making this a perfect vehicle for classic car shows and daily driving alike.
The History and Paperwork
- Military vehicle for first nine years
- Taken into civilian service in 1981
- Current owner for last 19 years
- Upgraded electrics and brakes
- Original interior and exterior
The Condition
- Exterior kept as original as possible
- Replacement off-road front tyres recently fitted
- Key instruments and switchgear reportedly working
- Original chassis but replacement rear cross member
- Footwells welded alongside replacement side panels
- Bulkhead appears to be clean and rust free
The Mechanics
- Bolted rear roll bar could be removed if required
- Fuel hoses and rear prop shaft recently replaced
- Original engine reportedly starts and runs smoothly
- Gearbox believed to be from Series III, with full synchromesh
- Described as “regularly maintained in good mechanical condition”
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