Highlights

Rare and sought-after Suffix B model
One of only 1,037 ‘356 prefix’ RHD export models
Recent extensive chassis-up restoration to factory specification
Repainted in original Tuscan Blue with re-trimmed Palomino interior
Engine overhaul and recent service
Retains factory-original dashboard, binnacle, switches, steering wheel and headrests
Supported by Heritage Certificate and photographic restoration documentation
Just 300 miles covered since mechanical overhaul

The Appeal

The Suffix B, built for only 10 months in 1973, is where the Range Rover started to move upmarket. It retained the purity of the original, including the ‘Kit Kat’ seats, but the extra sound deadening and more instruments marked the ‘luxurification’ of Spen King’s clever SUV.

Less than 7,000 of all Suffix B variants were built, with only 1,037 being ‘356 prefix’ RHD export models like this beautiful Tuscan Blue example. Factory stamps and plates, and the Heritage Certificate verify the current colour scheme and show that it was built in February 1973, a month after the Suffix B was introduced. It was immediately exported to Queensland, Australia where it enjoyed the warm, sunny climate until 2021 when it returned to the UK.

Since returning, it has been subject to an extensive chassis-up restoration that focused on retaining the original specification and colour combination. The work included a respray, re-trimming the Palomino interior and renovating the engine. Crucially, a degree of originality has been preserved: the dashboard, binnacle, switches, steering wheel and headrests are all factory items, lending the cabin a genuine character that a fully renewed interior simply cannot replicate. We’re told that it has covered very few miles since completion.

For those seeking an early, carefully restored Range Rover with strong documentation and a straightforward ownership history, this Suffix B warrants close inspection.

History and Paperwork

Manufactured in February 1973
Originally supplied to Queensland, Australia; subsequently returned to the UK
Three registered keepers from new according to seller (unwarranted)
Registered in the UK from September 2021
Single UK keeper since returning
Heritage Certificate confirms factory specification and Tuscan Blue colour, we are told
Factory stamps and Solihull plates conforming to Heritage Certificate
Written confirmation of history from the car's second owner advised
Supporting file including photographic restoration documentation
Original jacking equipment and tools
MOT-exempt as a historic vehicle
Chassis number: 35601100B
Engine number: 39802047F
RHD export models carry 356 prefix in chassis range 00821 to 01857
Last voluntary MOT ran to September 2022 with no advisories

The Condition

Body-off restoration completed to factory specification
Chassis blasted and recoated
Interior re-trimmed in correct Palomino upholstery
New headlining and carpets fitted throughout
Dashboard, binnacle, switches, steering wheel and headrests are factory-original items
Tuscan Blue paintwork applied as per original factory specification
New Rostyle wheels fitted with Dunlop SP tyres
The vendor states the air-conditioning is fully operational
Original jacking equipment and tools retained

The Mechanics

3.5-litre Rover V8 engine
Four-speed manual transmission
Engine tested with good compression
Carburettors rebuilt
Gearbox found to be in very good order, resealed and reinstalled
Just 300 miles covered since mechanical overhaul, we are told
Recent service with few miles covered since work

Engine overhaul since returning to UK:

New seals
Replacement water pump
Spark plugs
Ignition leads
New belts
Replacement core plugs

BEFORE YOU BUY

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