Highlights

Full restoration completed in March 2024
All new body panels and galvanised chassis
Full respray in Marine Blue
2.25-litre Petrol with overdrive
Subtle upgrades include tan upholstery and a wood-rimmed sports steering wheel

The Appeal

The Series III was the last of the original line of leaf-spring Land Rovers, marking the end of an era. Built between 1971 and 1985, it had an all-new interior incorporating a padded dashboard. Headlamps moved outboard to the wings, and a new plastic radiator grille was introduced.

Easier to drive than earlier Series models yet still true to Land Rover's roots in terms of mechanicals and appearance, these cars are the sort of classic you can enjoy all year round; perfect for trips to the pub, family walks, and even daily driving if you're prepared for a modicum of discomfort!

As the photographs attest to, this Series III has been restored to a high standard, with all-new body panels and a new galvanised chassis. It's been subtly upgraded, mixing the period Marine Blue paintwork with an aftermarket tan interior and sports steering wheel. The truck cab is of course removable and the Land Rover comes with a 'Bikini' canvas for warmer climes.

If you're looking for a usable classic Land Rover, a late Series III, such as this short-wheelbase 1980 example, is a compelling proposition.

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The History and Paperwork

UK market RHD example
Exempt from road tax and MOT testing
Rebuild completed at 9,300-mile stage on odometer
According to DVLA, the odometer has been around the clock once, indicating the true mileage is 109,301 miles
Full restoration will be completed in March 2024
Owner has moved to Finland on business, so the car is just sitting idle, hence the sale

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The Condition

New galvanised chassis
New body panels used during the restoration
Exceedingly straight bodywork with good panel alignment
Full respray in Marine Blue to a high standard
Superbly presented chassis and underside
Truck cab roof fitted
Bonnet-mounted spare wheel
'Bikini' canvas tilt (sand) included
OEM white steel wheels with modern off-road tyres
Tow bar and towing electrics fitted
Small dent in offside of front bumper
Galvanised cappings in very good shape
Side-hinged tailgate upgrade
Tan upholstery fitted to original-style 'Deluxe' seats
Aftermarket central cubby box fitted between the front seats
Radio blanking plate fitted
Seat belts fitted to aftermarket bolt-in frame to allow removal of the roof

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The Mechanics

2.25-litre four-cylinder petrol engine
Four-speed manual gearbox with overdrive, low-range and selectable four-wheel-drive
Superbly present engine bay
Reportedly in very good running, driving order
Car mechanicals all working
The vendor notes that the engine does not like the cold but is smooth when at operating temperature

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BEFORE YOU BUY

This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:

✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..

✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.

✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.

✓ VAT is included in the buyer's fee. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.

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✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection

or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it’s worth checking beforehand..