1959 Land Rover Series II 88"

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.

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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

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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

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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

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BEFORE YOU BUY

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