Land Rover Series I 86" petrol

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Launched at the Amsterdam Motor Show in 1948, the first production Land Rovers used a 1,600cc 50bhp engine mated to a 4-speed Rover P3 gearbox with a freewheel system and a two-speed transfer box which effectively doubled the number of available ratios.

New for 1950 Model Year was an updated transfer box with the familiar yellow and red knobs sprouting out of the floor, which did away with the early ‘ring-pull’ system. This was much more robust and was to last in production right up until the demise of the Series III in 1984.

Later models gained an extra 6” in the chassis making them ever more practical and a two-litre engine became available from 1952, giving a welcome increase in torque.

Imported into the UK from sunny Australia as a restoration project, this late 86” petrol was sent abroad in 1955 in CKD form (Completely Knocked Down) for local assembly. This system allowed for more efficient shipping and also avoided certain local taxes, as the vehicle could be classified as part-built in its country of destination.

This example has certainly led a life and despite missing a few parts here and there would be readily restorable, especially given the basically sound structure that lurks beneath.

These old Land Rovers are like ‘Meccano sets’, with virtually every part readily available. If you fancy taking on a worthwhile project that won’t break the bank or cause too many headaches, this looks just the job...