1950 Land Rover Series I 80”

Highlights

Equipped with overdrive, free-wheeling hubs and a capstan winch
Engine rebuild and full respray carried out in 2022
In superb overall condition

The Appeal

Following the jubilation of Allied victory in Europe, Britain woke up to the harsh reality of post-war recovery. Cities and industrial areas had been raised to the ground by the Luftwaffe and to make matters worse, the money and materials needed to rebuild were in short supply. Britain’s motor industry, which had played a key role in manufacturing armaments during the war, was faced with a grave steel shortage and buyers simply couldn’t justify expensive motor cars.

It was Rover that stepped up to the challenge of devising a car to rebuild Britain. Inspired by the wartime Willys Jeep, the aluminium-bodied Land Rover was unveiled in 1948 and would go on to become one of the most successful 4x4s of all time. Early Series I examples are highly sought after among collectors and here we have a lovely 1950 example.

The vendor’s late father acquired it locally from a friend in 2003, using it for one summer but then placing it in an insulated barn with their collection of 25 classics. His main interest was motorcycles, but following a cancer diagnosis in 2021, he was unfortunately unable to ride. His son therefore suggested he have some of his cars restored and that’s what he did, including this Land Rover which underwent an engine rebuild and full respray in 2022. Fortunately, the vendor’s father was able to enjoy his Land Rover up until his passing in April 2023, and now it’s time for someone new to enjoy this great example.

The History and Paperwork

V5C present
Exempt from road tax and MOT testing
Invoices for the aforementioned recent restoration jobs accompany the car
The vendor’s father acquired it in 2003
Four former registered keepers recorded by the DVLA
UK-supplied home market example in right-hand drive

The Condition

Short wheelbase 80” example - the same as the earliest Land Rovers
Equipped with a canvas tilt which has accrued an attractive patina while remaining in serviceable condition
Very straight “Birmabright” alloy bodywork
Refinished in Bronze Green to a high standard in 2022, dry-stored and used sparingly since
All the galvanised steel components present well
The underside presents well and the chassis appears in very good order
No corrosion apparent in the usual areas - the bulkhead and rear crossmember look smart
We’re informed that one of the door handles is defective, requiring replacement
Smart interior (with any exposed metal components also repainted)
We notice a riveted repair to the offside of the aluminium seat box
The three-abreast seats all look in fine condition with no notable wear
A well-made gear lever extension has been fitted
The removable door tops appear in smart order

The Mechanics

1,997 cc four-cylinder petrol engine
Four-speed manual gearbox
Selectable low-range and four-wheel drive
Equipped with free-wheeling front hubs and overdrive
Rare and desirable PTO-driven capstan winch fitted
All presents well under the bonnet
Engine rebuild carried out in 2022
The vendor reports that it drives well and appears to run exactly as it should

BEFORE YOU BUY

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