Description
The 1948 Amsterdam Motor Show witnessed the launch of the Series 1 Land Rover, which laid the foundation for a production series that still exists today. Responding to the post-war climate, Rover designer Maurice Wilks recognised the need for a utilitarian vehicle that could make use of the limited materials then available. A clear departure from Rover’s traditional offering of opulent executive saloons, the Land Rover was originally seen as a ‘stop-gap’ while a new range of traditional designs could be developed. The vehicle was an immediate success, however, and quickly established a place in the hearts of customers the world over. Released in 1972, the Series III is still firmly connected to the original Land Rover lineage, following the model’s tradition of incremental improvements. The new range offered a number of improvements, including an upgraded heater, a new dashboard, an alternator and Synchromesh on 2nd gear.
This 1980 Series 3 88 is available buy from Ron Hodgson Specialist Cars. Notably, this Land Rover stands out as a highly practical 4x4 in nice condition, the upgrades making it exceptionally usable.
Wheels and Tyres
Upgraded with 700 modular wheels, these have been finished in black and are in great condition. The tyres, including the bonnet-mounted spare, are all matching Ranger Off-Road tyres and have a good amount of tread remaining.
Please see the image gallery to take a closer look at the wheels.
Bodywork
The bodywork on the Land Rover presents well; there are no noticeable dings or dents to mention, and the panels appear as straight as you would expect for any Landy of this age. The panel gaps look to be matching, and there are minimal signs of any corrosion apart from a few small blisters on the top of the nearside wing where it meets the headlight surround and on the hinge for the windscreen on the nearside. It is also worth noting that new wings were fitted in 2018 during the restoration.
We've highlighted in more detail our observations through our hi-resolution images and videos, so please take time to look through
Paint
The Land Rover now wears a modern coat of "Nardo Grey" over the original green. This presents well with just a few blemishes, we think it could benefit from wet sanding and a machine polish in places to remove some "orange peel" from the finish.
Glass and Trim
The windows are in good condition and appear free from any damage or excessive scratches apart from some on the windscreen caused by the wiper over the years. The door tops have been replaced, which came with new sliding windows. All of the lights were replaced during the restoration and have a bright finish with no splits or cracks in the lenses.
The canvas roof is in excellent condition, having been fitted in 2018. There is also a set of wheel arch extensions, which are all in good order.
Seats and Carpets
The vinyl seats up front are in excellent condition, as are the rear seats. All of these have been retrimmed and don’t appear to have seen an enormous amount of use. The heavy-duty rubber mats in the front are in excellent condition and help keep the chequer plate floor in good order. Some ribbed rubber flooring is used in the rear, which is also free from any excessive wear.
Dashboard
The dashboard is vinyl-covered and in good condition. Being a Series 3, the instruments sit in front of the driver and are all reported to work correctly. There is a small amount of tarnishing to the bezels, in keeping with the age.
Steering Wheel / Gear Stick
The original three-spoke steering wheel has just some light patina in keeping with the age of this classic 4x4. The gear levers match in condition and are free from any damage.
Engine, Gearbox, Suspension and Brakes.
The engine fires up without hesitation, even after a night out in the cold before our visit, and there are no issues.
The gearbox is reported to have been rebuilt by John Brown 4x4, which has a smooth change out on the road.
Please check our website for our full stock list. Nationwide delivery is available. Please call us before making a special trip to view a vehicle in order to check that it is still available for sale. This particular vehicle is on display in our viewing by appointment only showroom located in Ormskirk, Lancashire. Viewing is strictly by appointment only, please call us to make arrangements.
