This fabulous 1949-built 80” Land Rover is the ultra-desirable ‘lights-behind-the-grille’ model. With a fantastic history file going back to the 1950s it had been restored comprehensively and to a very high standard in 1990-1991 before being stored away in perfect conditions for over 30 years.

 

Our client recently asked us to revive it for him and as such we have just carried out a major recommissioning which has included new original pattern tyres, new Michelin inner tubes, new Undercover Covers hood, brake overhaul, carburettor restoration, new exhaust, new fuel pump, restored dynamo, reinstating the original Lucas headlights and an extensive mechanical service. Although MoT exempt we concluded our work by taking it for an MoT test, which it passed with no advisories.

 

Several decades ago the engine was upgraded to highly desirable 2-litre specification along with a selectable 2/4wd transfer box giving the Land Rover excellent performance. This engine has retained all the early cosmetic parts from the original unit keeping the appearance of the engine bay extremely original. We have recently carried out a 200-mile road test around the north Norfolk coast and can confirm it drives and performs superbly, with a notably strong engine, great steering and excellent brakes.

 

With a fabulous original registration number (and lovely original ‘Hills’ cast alloy registration  plates), a massive history file accompanies the 80, with copious invoices and paperwork dating back to the 1950s. This includes the then owner’s hand-written notes on servicing and maintenance dating back over 60 years. The Land Rover’s long-term equestrian owner personalised it with a chrome horseshoe mascot and high quality Lucas twin hi/lo horns which have been retained and it still bears various horse show passes and other ephemera dating back to the 1950s & 60s.

 

Early Land Rovers in such lovely, ‘properly sorted’ condition and with extensive and genuine UK history are rare to the market and this one exudes charm and immediate usability. Literally ‘on the button’ it is MoT tested until September 2023.

 

Selling on behalf of our client it represents excellent value at £49,950.