1971 LAND ROVER IIA LIGHTWEIGHT

This 1971 Land Rover IIA Lightweight is an excellent example of the classic British 4x4, presented in solid mechanical order. Under the bonnet sits a 2.5-litre 200Tdi engine with an intercooler and Kenlowe fan, coupled with a four-speed manual transmission and high-ratio Range Rover type 3.5 differentials. The odometer currently indicates 77,186 miles.

Among the last of the Series IIa Lightweights built, it also features some ‘crossover’ Series III parts such as the bulkhead and steering column. It appears to have been registered overseas at some point, with the first UK registration date recorded as 11 April 1978, and there is some evidence to suggest that this Lightweight was an MOD trial vehicle. It even has some intriguing markings on the bonnet where it was most likely lifted on or off sea-going vessels.

This Land Rover has been with its current keeper for the last two years, after he purchased it from Nene Overland. It has been employed to move heavy audio equipment, as well as for commuting and leisurely fishing trips. It is logged correctly as a historic vehicle on the V5C and it road tax and ULEZ charge exempt.

While the chassis and bulkhead are reported to be in excellent, rust-free condition, the car's rugged bodywork also presents well for its age, with the Metallic Brown paintwork described as being in very good order overall. It has previously had a full respray, though there are some minor patches of bubbling in the finish. Swirl marks visible on some of the panels would almost certainly polish out easily. The Exmoor Trim canvas roof with roll-up sides fits well, and presents with just some small patches of light discolouration. Defender door mirrors are also installed. There are Fairey free wheel hubs, and the 16-inch military split-rim wheels are in good order.

Moving inside, the vendor has indicated a minor split to the black vinyl on the side of the high-back driver’s seat, though the overall condition of the cabin is smart considering its utility design. There is some age-related scratching to the dashboard and dials, though the three-spoke steering wheel and gear knob present well. All of the electrics are reported to work as they should. The rear floor has some wear to the finish, but the bench seat upholstery is in good shape.

Beyond the mechanical upgrades mentioned earlier on, this Series IIa Lightweight also has LWB servo-assisted brakes and Pro Comp shock absorbers. It features two fuel tanks, though only one is piped in, as well as a two-piece tailgate and even the original tool box, which is often lost.

The last service was undertaken in February 2021 at around 76,500 miles, where technicians at JD Motor Repairs in Tring changed the fluids and replaced the engine mounts. Prior to this, JD Motor Repairs also replaced the alternator supports and accelerator cable. The vendor indicates the vehicle has also undergone a hub seal replacement, and emphasises that the chassis, bulkhead and cross-member are in excellent condition.

While it is exempt from mandatory annual testing, the owner has kept up with the inspections. The most recent MOT test was on 4 February 2021 at 77,105 miles, which resulted in a clean pass with no advisories or defects. The wheels come wrapped with a set of Goodyear tyres, which are reported to be new on all four corners. Accompanying the vehicle are the original heritage certificate and a selection of maintenance invoices.

This Land Rover Series IIA Lightweight is a very tidy example of a rare classic 4x4, presented in sound mechanical order. With an attractive canvas roof and a charming interior, this Land Rover would make an unusual addition to a marque collection, and is ready to use and enjoy immediately.

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