Description
7th Dec, 2024 10:00
The December 2024 Auction
1955 Land Rover 86 Series I
Mid-fifties example of the original Land Rover
Estimate
£10, 000 - £12, 000
Buyer's premium: 15. 00%
Lot details
Registration: SFO 926
Chassis: 57104809
Odometer: 36, 487
Transmission: Manual
MOT: Exempt
Fitted with 2. 25 litre petrol engine
Runs and drives
Recently painted
Fitted with bikini top and rear tonneau
In current ownership since 2008
Supplied with roof frame
The Land Rover Series I, introduced in 1948, was the first model produced by the British automaker Rover Company, marking the birth of what would become an iconic off-road vehicle brand. Designed as a rugged, versatile utility vehicle for agricultural and industrial use, it was inspired by the American Willys Jeep used during World War II. The Series I featured a lightweight aluminium body, a decision influenced by post-war material shortages, and a sturdy steel chassis. Powered by a 1. 6-litre petrol engine, it initially offered four-wheel drive and selectable low-range gearing, making it highly capable in challenging terrains. Its practicality and reliability quickly gained popularity among farmers, explorers, and military organizations worldwide, laying the foundation for Land Rover’s legacy as a leading manufacturer of durable off-road vehicles.
We are pleased to offer this 1955 Land Rover Series I 86”. First registered in April 1955, the 86” version of the Land Rover had a longer load bed than the earlier models making it more practical as a workhorse. This car would have been supplied with a 2. 0 litre petrol engine but at some point it has been fitted with a 2. 25 litre petrol from a later example. This isn’t a bad idea as the not inconsiderable extra power and torque make it far more useable.
Despite being painted recently, this is no over-restored Land Rover. There is some bubbling here and there and the exposed aluminium is patinated as you might expect for a car approaching its 70th birthday. It’s an aesthetic that suits an older Land Rover perfectly. The wheels have been refurbished and repainted. The bikini roof and tonneau that are fitted look fresh and in good order. It does come with a full canopy frame but will need the canvas. Inside, the seats look to have been recovered and it is fitted with a heater.
The car runs and drives, however, the vendor tells us that the brakes need bleeding so we haven’t taken it on the road.
There are some freshly restored Series I's out there and, while they’re lovely, arguably a pristine Land Rover goes against the very nature of these utilitarian little cars. This car isn’t perfect but you’ll forgive a lot for the character it brings - it suggests a life lived - and, with a very attractive reserve, you could nab it at a fraction of the cost of a show car.
