This Land Rover Series III is a superb example of a charming classic utility vehicle, which benefits from a recent and comprehensive rebuild and restoration. Under the bonnet is a later-era 2.5-litre ‘200di’ diesel engine, coupled to a four-speed manual transmission with four-wheel drive. The odometer indicates 99,581 miles from new, though in most places its appearance is as-new. The complete drivetrain, including engine, fuel pump, gearbox and differentials were overhauled during the lengthy restoration process.
First registered in April 1977, there are seven previous registered keepers on the log book. The current owner acquired the Land Rover earlier this year.
Underpinning the restored body is a new galvanised chassis, which is in superb condition as shown in the photo gallery. It has been finished in the period-correct Marine Blue, which presents beautifully both around the exterior body panels, as well as on the exposed elements of the cabin and rear compartment. The seller notes a small mark on the bonnet, and another on the nearside quarter panel, but otherwise this Series III presents beautifully.
In the cabin, the three front seats have been re-trimmed in black and show minimal wear. All of the exposed and painted metal surfaces are finished with new screws, bolts and washers, and the rest of the interior trim is also in superb condition. In the compartment, the two occasional rear bench seats have also been given fresh upholstery, and the bases flip up to create more loading room when required.
The Land Rover comes with a new hood frame and Exmoor sand-coloured fabric soft top. For a more open-air driving experience, the front windscreen also folds flat - though the next owner may wish to fit a permanent rubbing strip on the bonnet to keep it in pristine condition if this is used. Ahead of the driver are a pair of Jaeger instrument gauges, finished with bright metal bezels, and which both read clearly. All of the switches and levels work as they should, and there are no electrical faults.
The car is still fresh from its exhaustive rebuild, with less than 200 miles covered since the work was completed. As with most restoration, final elements were improved via a snagging process after the main work, including rectification of minor oil leaks, adjustment to the steering and brakes, new door seals, and new parabolic springs and heavy-duty shock absorbers. A Roamer Drive overdrive was also fitted, along with quieter engine mounts, and new rear wing stays. All of this was completed at Land Rover Series specialist Glencoyne Engineering. The seller notes that Richard Hall at Glencoyne commented that it was one of the best restorations he had seen, and drove very well indeed.
The Land Rover is exempt from annual MOT testing on the basis of age, but was put through a test on 2 April 2020 at 99,484 miles, which it passed with no advisories whatsoever. It comes with invoices for the rebuild work, as well as paperwork covering the most recent improvements carried out at Glencoyne. A Series III handbook is also present.
This Land Rover Series III is a charming classic 4x4, which is presented in remarkable condition following a thorough restoration that incorporated fastidious attention to detail. An iconic and practical car, this reliable workhorse is packed with period character, and would make a fine addition to any collection. It is also eligible for import to the United States under the 25-year rule, which may be of interest to bidders on that side of the Atlantic.
All cars and motorbikes on Collecting Cars are run through an online HPI check. This vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and has no finance owing.