Vendor supplied images
Highlights
- Rare and desirable Series II (built from 1958-61 only)
- Sports much of its original 'Bronze Green' paintwork
- Superbly patinated and supremely original throughout
- Rare original period linked floor mats and 'elephant hide' upholstery
- Brand new period-style tyres
The Appeal
Rover had never intended to build the 'Land Rover' for long. Commissioned as a "post-war stop-gap" to tide over steel shortages, nobody could have predicted just how unbelievably popular it would become. Ten years flew by and it became apparent that the model had a future. Therefore, Rover's Chief Stylist David Bache was brought in to design a second generation - aptly known as the 'Series II'.
Produced for just three years before the arrival of the subtly revised IIA, the Series II is the rarest of all leafsprung Land Rovers and that makes it exceedingly desirable. As these off-roaders are so often customised, original examples are highly prized - and they don't come much more original than this one.
This 1959 Series II sports a rich patina and retains numerous sought-after factory features. As befits a vehicle of this age and nature, there are some historic repairs, but it appears a very sound example overall. Offered in running and driving condition, it's the perfect basis for a rolling restoration or else extensive recommissioning.
Produced for just three years before the arrival of the subtly revised IIA, the Series II is the rarest of all leafsprung Land Rovers and that makes it exceedingly desirable. As these off-roaders are so often customised, original examples are highly prized - and they don't come much more original than this one.
This 1959 Series II sports a rich patina and retains numerous sought-after factory features. As befits a vehicle of this age and nature, there are some historic repairs, but it appears a very sound example overall. Offered in running and driving condition, it's the perfect basis for a rolling restoration or else extensive recommissioning.
History and Paperwork
- First registered in 1959
- Exempt from road tax and MOT testing
- 36,476 miles indicated
- Replacement engine from an ex-military model fitted
The Condition
- Desirable short-wheelbase variant with canvas tilt
- Original patina paint with some panels having small touch-ups - mainly on the bulkhead as this is steel and prone to corrosion
- Various historic repairs present; solid but could be improved if desired
- Original 'elephant hide' seating - a rare find
- Correct 1959 model year Series II components including the flat valance panel and deep sill covers
- Original controls, gauges and switchgear retained and in good visual order
- Non-working speedometer
- Rare period original linked floor mats
- The chassis appears sound overall with some historic repairs and surface corrosion visible
- The galvanised cappings and bumper appear in good order for their age
- Some signs of corrosion to the steel door tops
The Mechanics
- Replacement 2,286 cc petrol engine fitted from a military Land Rover
- Four-speed manual gearbox
- Selectable low-range and four-wheel drive
- The vendor reports that the gearbox, clutch, and brakes function and the steering is fairly positive
- We're informed that the lights function as they should
- Brand new period-style tyres fitted
- The vendor advises thorough recommissioning before the vehicle returns to regular on-road use
BEFORE YOU BUY
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