Land Rover Series 1 80" SWB

An early Series I 80-inch Land Rover from December 1949, an ex-ministry car that retains both its original chassis and original 1600cc engine. Its headlamps had been moved from behind the grille to in front of it, a common period change to mimic the newer model, and they sit behind the grille again after restoration.

It was found on a Yorkshire farm with all its parts present, then restored nut and bolt by marque specialist Jeanette Coates at a stated cost of about £30,000. The engine and gearbox were reconditioned, and the work was photographed throughout.

The car has the ring-pull gearbox and military split-rim wheels. It is finished in Bronze Green with green vinyl trim, and the sand-coloured all-weather gear is new. It has covered about 300 miles since the rebuild and comes with a British Motor Industry Heritage Certificate and paperwork.