Land Rovers are one of those vehicles that basically need no introduction, they’re so embedded in all aspects of everyday life, that everyone has a story about one or a relationship with one. Little else in the automotive world is as iconic, beloved or as capable. Early pre-Defender models are particularly sought after and collectible.
And that’s what we have here – a 1980 Series 3 109 Land Rover. It’s been well-loved, nicely maintained and has the kind of intriguing, unusual history that you only really see with a Land Rover. Whether you’re adding to a collection or simply want a cool, classic all-purpose vehicle, this should be perfect for you.WjtGi7CHudhao0PT9XlcyQJgqbUugXZdbFN3Puck.jpeg405.75 KB
The History and Paperwork
Built 5 December 1980
First owned by the Central Army Depot, Derbyshire
Put into service in Northern Ireland in January 1981
Used at RAF Brize Norton-Lyn in July 1982
Just 28,505 miles, confirmed by MOTs
Just 6,000 miles covered since 2006
Current owner since May 2020
Letter of history from the MOD
Some invoices for maintenance and servicing
Vintage style black/silver number plates included
Historic vehicle status – MOT and tax exempt
BMI Heritage Trust Certified Factory Record certificate
Kept dry-stored and garaged for the last few years
You can actually see this vehicle’s history written large in its bodywork and construction. As an Army vehicle in Northern Ireland, the fuel filler was welded up and moved to underneath the passenger seat. You’ll also notice that the galvanised comms rail remains behind the front seats and some defunct comms wiring remains in the front OS wheel-arch.
When the car was stationed at RAF Brize Norton-Lyn, it was painted in high-visibility orange as it was used as an airfield vehicle. You can still see this paint peeping through the occasional chip and scratch.
The current owner purchased the car from a friend who had carried out a lot of work on the vehicle and had it in storage. Unfortunately, they find they’re not using the car, so it’s time for it to move on to a new owner…
Like all older Land Rovers, the cabin is quite spartan due to the vehicle’s utilitarian nature. It suits it perfectly, everything you need is here and nothing more. All of the original trim, dash and switchgear elements are in fine condition for the age, with everything functioning as it should. There is a healthy level of patination throughout the interior of the car, which really gives it a character and style all of its own.
A collection of transmission controls is prominent in the centre of the cabin – the standard gear stick alongside a red lever for switching between high and low range and a yellow lever for engaging four-wheel drive when in high range. They’re all in good condition, with expected levels of wear and tear.
The rear features three drop-down benches that will easily accommodate seven, while the front has the traditional three individual Deluxe seats in nice condition. The floor panels look in excellent condition, straight and undamaged with no corrosion we could see. At the rear, the floor is covered with a large rubber mat, while both footwells in the front have sturdy rubber over-mats.
In the rear compartment, there is a spare wheel, complete with a new canvas cover, which was purchased and installed in July 2018.
Original white steel wheels with Michelin A/T tyres
Fold-down windscreen and removable side windows
Galvanised rear drop-hatch
As the 109 model, this Series 3 has a far more usable amount of luggage and passenger room. Whether you’re lugging hay bales or a small party of passengers, this is the perfect vehicle for it.
The exterior is extremely original, wearing its history very much on its sleeve. From the relocated fuel filler to the military-grade comms rack behind the front seats and hints of high-visibility paint poking through the chips and scratches, you can clearly see this charming old off-roader has lived a proper life.
It’s in excellent overall condition though, with straight panels and no signs of significant damage or corrosion. Some of the trim, such as the handles, hinges and other elements wear a little surface corrosion, but it’s significantly less than you’d expect from a Land Rover of this vintage.
The steel wheels are new, shod in quality Michelin A/T tyres with lots of tread on them – in fact they look almost new.
Underneath the car, everything looks in very good order. The underside has obviously has extensive work carried out on it. Everything appears to have been treated and painted black to protect it. There were no corrosion issues we could see, with only light surface corrosion on some drivetrain elements. Overall the underneath looks to be straight, solid and exceptionally clean for a Land Rover of any vintage, let alone one that is now 42 years old.
Free-wheeling hubs fitted for improved economy and less front-end wear
With an established record as a reliable and long-lived engine, the 2.25-litre petrol is a great choice for the Land Rover. When properly cared for they are known to easily achieve 250,00 miles and more – and this one has covered a mere 28,505 miles.
The engine bay itself looks clean and tidy, with mostly original components which wear an attractive level of natural wear. When the engine was running, it was quiet and smooth-running, with a pleasant noise. We neither saw nor heard any evidence of leaks, overheating issues or poor mechanical running. Overall, the vehicle appears to be in fine condition.
Having lived much of its early life (up to the mid-90s) as a military vehicle, you can be sure that it was maintained to the very highest standards - which is no doubt why it presents so well now. We’re informed by the owner that the car runs very well, with no mechanical issues that they are aware of.
Few vehicles feel as ‘alive’ as a classic Land Rover. They’re the kind of vehicle that genuinely has character and personality, and is all the better for it.
This example ticks all the boxes: a great engine and body combination, excellent original patina and a truly unique history. Whether you want a collectible and charming classic, a usable but utilitarian daily or simply adore old Land Rovers, this enchanting vehicle is absolutely what you need.
Notice to bidders
Although every care is taken to ensure this listing is as factual and transparent as possible, all details within the listing are subject to the information provided to us by the seller. Car & Classic does not take responsibility for any information missing from the listing. Please ensure you are satisfied with the vehicle description and all information provided before placing a bid.
As is normal for most auctions, this vehicle is sold as seen, and therefore the Sale of Goods Act 1979 does not apply. All bids are legally binding once placed. Any winning bidder who withdraws from a sale, is subject to our bidders fee charge. Please see our FAQs and T&C's for further information. Viewings of vehicles are encouraged, but entirely at the seller's discretion.
