Land Rover S2

The Land Rover was introduced by Rover just after the war as a stop gap model. The legend that it has become shows just how good the initial concept was, the number of early cars still working today proving the quality and effectiveness of the original design.

Launched at the Amsterdam Motor Show in 1948, the first production Land Rovers used a 1600cc 50bhp engine mated to a 4-speed Rover P3 gearbox with a 2-speed transfer box added to double the available number of ratios. These early Land Rovers were effectively permanent four-wheel drive, with two-wheel drive being selected by a 'ring pull' on the transmission which engaged a free wheel.

Improvements came quickly, a more robust and effective four-wheel drive system operated through a transfer box arriving shortly after launch. The rather insipid 1600cc engine gave way to a 2-litre, whilst the rugged and smooth 2286cc 72bhp unit arrived along with significantly better steering in the Series II of 1958.

This 1960 model has seen considerable renovation over the last few years. A new rear cross member has been fitted within the last 12 months, the remainder of the chassis being described by the vendor as being in good sound condition. Parabolic springs, free wheeling hubs, a new fuel tank and exhaust have also been added, the vendor confirming that it runs and drives very well. He adds that it has a tow bar with electrics and excellent radial tyres. It has been repainted externally while inside the dash and steering wheel are original and the seats have no rips or tears. A set of rear side-facing seats are included but not currently fitted.

The later door tops are in good condition as is the tilt. It is fitted with a Weber carburettor, the vendor believing that it also has an unleaded head conversion however there is no paperwork to substantiate this. MOTd for 12 months, this nicely presented specimen is ready to go, offering a more practical vehicle than the earlier Series 1 models with more pulling power and nicer steering.