Description
A well cared for 1951 Land Rover Series 1 80".
This beautiful Land Rover was first built on the 16th March 1951, and dispatched shortly after to David Rosenfield Ltd in Manchester. Early ownership isn't known, but records show it was bought by an individual in Dorset in 1982, who then set about undertaking a full restoration. I have quite an extensive ring binder documenting the history of the car from 1982 until today, with pages of receipts.
After many happy years of use it was sold in 1998, and then again in 2001, 2004, 2010, and then to my Father in 2016.
During his ownership he undertook a number of sympathetic and minor restoration jobs to bring this 1951 up to a really good standard, and returning it to a near period perfect specification as possible. The most significant job was sourcing a 1951 1597cc engine (at some point it was fitted with a later 1997cc engine). Cox & Turner (Land Rover engine specialists who prepare engines for JLR for the re-born program) rebuilt the engine costing £4, 600. And it shows, it starts and runs beautifully. Other work/ changes made in include:
- new door seals & mats
- new Exmoor trim hood (see later photos - its isn't currently on the vehicle but is in like new condition).
- some minor chassis work (including painting it the correct bronze green)
My father gifted the vehicle to me in May 2020 (he bought another Series 1 to restore and has a few other cars so needed the space - I was happy to oblige!)
Since I've owned it, I've added Exmoor Trim rear bench seats and lap belts (so I could take my children in it), exmoor trim door cards, and period correct Semaphore turn signals. I also renewed 3 of the 4 leaf springs (Jones Springs - the best in the business for classic car springs) as they were looking and feeling a bit tired.
The general condition of the Land Rover is great. Bodywork is in good condition overall, given it hasn't had any bodywork done since the 80's. This is not a concourse vehicle, but neither does it look like a tatty farm vehicle. In my view, it's just right for a 70 year old Land Rover... and gives people a smile when they see it coming. It is honest and well cared for.
The chassis is great condition, no signs of any rust and the outriggers etc were replaced during my father's ownership.
Gearbox and diffs are all really good and mechanically sound.
SUMMARY
This is an great example of a Series 1 and the price represents a really solid well cared for vehicle that has had thousands spent on it to maintain its period correct features. I'd love to keep it, but sadly we don't get the chance to use it much now and the time seems right to move it on to someone else who will use and appreciate it.
