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Land Rover S1

Land Rover S1

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Land Rover S1Land Rover S1Land Rover S1Land Rover S1
Lot number 50
Hammer value £2,100
Description Land Rover S1
Registration 668 FUV
Year 1958
Colour Green
Engine size 1,991 cc
Chassis No. 111801333
Engine No. 111806240

Land Rovers have now become such a common sight on Britain's roads that it is hard to imagine life without them. However, the world had somehow struggled along without these go-anywhere marvels until Maurice Wilks had a bright idea in 1947.

Taking a war surplus American Jeep as his inspiration, the Rover chief designer messed around with prototypes on his farm in Anglesey until he perfected the vehicle that was launched at the Amsterdam Motor Show in 1948. Then as now, a distinctive feature of the Land Rover was the bodywork, constructed of a lightweight alloy of aluminium and magnesium called Birmabright, then in plentiful war surplus supply, as was the green paint, the only colour available.

From 1948 until 1951 the Land Rover was only offered with an 80-inch wheelbase and a 1.6-litre petrol engine. So basic was it that tops for the doors and a roof (canvas or metal) were optional extras. In 1950, the lights moved from a position behind the grille to protruding through the grille. The engine was increased to a more usable 2.0-litres in 1952, 1954 seeing big changes when the 80-inch chassis was replaced by an 86-inch version offering 25% more carrying capacity.

This 1958 86” was termed a ‘civilian’ model and was supplied new in 2wd form. Not a popular option, they are sought after today as they are something a little bit different and can relatively easily be converted back to 4wd configuration. Most were purchased for work in Government departments, which could well be the case with this example as it was not DVLA registered until 1987.

Barn-stored since the 1990s, it retains its original chassis plate, the vendor confirming that it is still recognised by the DVLA computer and that he has already applied for a replacement V5 document which should arrive by the time of the sale.

He also advises us that there are no keys with the vehicle and that it will need a comprehensive restoration but looks like a very worthwhile project – it even comes with a lucky horseshoe! 

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