Only two miles since restoration
1954 Land Rover Series I 86" 4x4 Utility

• Restoration completed in 2022
• New chassis; original bulkhead
• Original 2.0-litre petrol engine
• Optional flashing indicators

Inspired by the US Army's wartime 'Jeep', developed in haste and intended for short-term, small-scale production, the Land Rover would defy its creators' initial scepticism. Rover bosses the Wilks brothers saw the need for a tough, four-wheel-drive, utility vehicle to serve the needs of the agricultural community in the immediate post-war years, but the Land Rover's runaway success following its introduction in 1948 took the company by surprise. The necessity of using corrosion resistant aluminium panels at a time of severe steel shortage turned into a positive virtue in the Land Rover's sphere of operations, and the use of existing components - including the P3 saloon's 1,595cc, four-cylinder, inlet-over-exhaust engine - kept production costs down and cut development time. There was permanent four-wheel drive with a lockable freewheel for the front axle, a Rover four-speed gearbox, and a two-speed transfer box offering high and low ranges. Ruggedly built and simple in construction, the Land Rover proved capable of surviving in countries where conditions were primitive to say the least, a virtue that helped contribute to its worldwide acceptance. Indeed, it is estimated that two-thirds of all Land Rovers ever produced are still in existence today.

'797 UYO' has the '2nd generation' 2.0-litre IOE petrol engine introduced on the 86" Series I in 1953. The Land Rover was purchased by the current owner approximately six years ago, having been discovered lying intact in a field. A new chassis was made, the original bulkhead repaired, and the bodywork straightened where necessary before being repainted in Heritage Green. A new canvas roof was made and the original engine overhauled by a very good local engineer: new cylinder liners, pistons, con-rods, etc and new bearings throughout. The transmission was cleaned and checked, and both axles and the braking system rebuilt, the latter with new lines and master cylinder. The carburettor was rebuilt and the fuel pump and tank renewed. The electrics were totally rewired and new lights fitted, the factory fitted PTO was overhauled and all instruments dismantled, cleaned and reassembled; indeed, the vendor says that every single nut and bolt has been apart, and either reassembled after cleaning or replaced.

Only two miles have been covered since the restoration was completed in 2022. Prospective purchasers are advised that the brakes should be used with caution, as they have not been bedded in following renewal. Described by the private vendor as in excellent condition throughout, this restored Series I 'Landie' is offered with restoration invoices and a V5C Registration Certificate.