Description
A rare opportunity to acquire an exceptionally restored and very desirable 1951 Land Rover Series 1 80".
When Maurice Wilks, Rover's chief designer, came up with a plan to produce a light agricultural utility vehicle in 1947 he would have no idea that his design would become an icon and launch a whole new industry sector. The original Land Rover was presented in sage green with a canvas roof and revolutionised rural transport. As an engineering marvel it can still outstrip its modern counterparts, and the Series I rightly belongs in the Motoring Hall of Fame. Hugely successful globally, improvements were made throughout the production run. In 1950 the lights moved from a position behind the grill to protrude through the grill and in 1952 a larger 2. 0 litre petrol engine replaced the original 1. 6 litre.
This vehicle has covered less than 1000 miles since restoration. We have known of this vehicle since 2015 and have sold the vehicle 3 times over the years. The last owner acquired the vehicle 5 years ago in 2019. When we were recently offered the vehicle we were keen to find it a new home again, as we know the car and its history very well.
Build Date: 16th October 1950. This is the 454th home market lights through the grille 1951 model produced. First supplied to David Rosenfield Ltd, Manchester on 17th October 1950. Complete with heritage certificate. Original Lloyd, Excavations & Roadstone Ltd plaque which was fitted to the wing, the vehicle was used by this company in the 1960's.
BODYWORK
It has had new wings from Keith Wadsworth, door tops, tailgate etc.
The rear tub unlike most Land Rovers is remarkably straight in the back and doesn't show any signs of hard use.
The chassis is immaculate and has been restored to the highest standards having any necessary outriggers. It has then been finished in the correct bronze green.
This vehicle has always had a spare wheel fitted in the back and has the more attractive bonnet without the wheel mounting. The underside of the bonnet is unpainted and back to the bare aluminum as it would have left the factory the rear tub is also the same. The vehicle has now been fitted with a full set of correct sheradised body fixings as per original specification.
Most original components have been reconditioned. When some parts were found to be beyond repair, original Land Rover new-old stock components were used.
INTERIOR
It has a complete set of new front seats that are the correct square back type for the age of the vehicle. It had also had a new canvas and flaps from Undercover Covers there has certainly been no expense spared on this Land Rover with thousands of pounds worth of receipts for parts in the history file.
The load area is exceptionally clean and doesn't show any sights of heavy use. Has correct ribbed type rubber matting to the floor and sides.
UNDER THE BONNET
The engine bay has been extremely well detailed and finished to the highest of standards. The restoration includes the original 1600cc engine that is the correct matching number to the car. A more modern coil has been fitted to improve reliability and also the vehicle has benefited from a new refurbished carburettor.
The vehicle has benefited from a new worm and nut and so the steering is very positive with no backlash as so often is the case.
We fitted four new leaf springs to the vehicle when the last took delivery. The vehicle has recently been serviced and is now ready to use and enjoy this Summer.
ON THE ROAD
The engine busts into life on the turn of the key. It always starts first time and is a great runner. The vehicle really does pull very well and is a joy to drive.
With the canvas sides rolled up and the door tops off this vehicle really does draw some attention.
It has a permanent four wheel drive gearbox the same as the early ring pull time but the very early yellow knob models we only used to engage 4 wheel drive in reverse.
The gears change up and down as they should the main box was checked over by a specialist and necessary parts replaced.
Almost all Series Land Rovers we have had drip a little oil, some quite a lot, this is the exception though no drips of oil to speak of even after standing for days in the same place.
It has just had a full matching set of 5 Extra Traction tyres which haven't even covered 500 miles. They are the cross ply style and in our opinion vehicles never look right unless they are on the right tyres.
SUMMARY
This is an fantastic example of a Series 1 restoration. All the numbers match - the chassis numbers on the plates are the same as on the log book registration document and that stamped on the chassis itself.
This is one of the best value for money 1951 80” on offer today. This Land Rover has obviously been cared for and cherished by its previous owners. It is a fantastic example that requires no work and is ready to use and enjoy.
If you are an investor then you will already know how these vehicles have appreciated over the last 5 years some doubling in value.
This a very honest 73 year old Series Land Rover. What you see is what you get it looks and drives exactly as it should. You will have to go a long way to find a better vehicle.
We have previously sold this vehicle 3 times over the last 9 years and as we know the vehicle we were delighted to sell the vehicle again knowing how original and honest the vehicle is.
