Land Rover Series I 86 inch

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Unveiled in late 1948, the ubiquitous Land-Rover Series I took the idea of the rugged Second World War Jeep into the immediate post-war civilian market.

From 1948 until 1951 it was only available with an 80-inch wheelbase and a 1.6-litre petrol engine, a more lively 2-litre unit following in 1952. By 1954 the stumpy 80-inch chassis had been replaced by an altogether more useful 86-inch version and a long wheelbase 107-inch pick up was also introduced, adding much needed carrying capacity to this go-anywhere workhorse.

A surprise hit for Rover, its final incarnation, the iconic Defender has only recently stopped rolling off the production lines in Solihull, an astonishing 67 years after the debut of the first of the breed.

According to the vendor, this 1954 86-inch model has spent its recent life in the Penrith area. In beautifully restored condition, he describes the engine and transmission as commendably quiet, the car having strong brakes and precise steering.

The bodywork is described as excellent, having recently had a professional respray. Replacement parts include new front springs, brake linings, headlights, fuel tank, rear silencer, water pump, hoses and a fresh set of tyres. The canvas tilt is also described as in very good condition, as is the upholstery, and it has just received a service.

Costing very little to insure and with no tax or MOT requirement, there can’t be many cars that are as cheap to run as a Series Land Rover – or as useful. This prime example is as fit as a fiddle and ready for the next 60 years of hard work.