The Land Rover was a utility vehicle devised in 1947 by the Wilks brothers for use on their farm. It was inspired by the wartime Jeep and the version most prized by aficionados is the Series I model (which accounted for the first 10 years of production). Thanks to its ingenious high/low ratio four-wheel drive system, the resultant 4×4 was possessed of incredible climbing ability in all conditions including battlefields. Many consider the 86″ to be the best of the Series 1 Land Rovers with more cabin space and only being marketed in small numbers between 1954 to 1956.
This ‘86’ was manufactured here in the UK and then exported to Australia for use on a hunting reserve. It remained there until 2015, when it was imported back into the UK by Agricultural & Cross Country Vehicles Ltd. They marketed the car as “a very early and all original 86″ (manufactured in 1953), powered by the correct 2 litre petrol engine (with pinch bolt starter etc)”, also describing it as “an unrepeatable opportunity to purchase an S1 in extremely original condition, even retaining its original ‘Sand’ paintwork – This is rare in The UK as only the export models were available in this colour”.
Purchased by us in 2020 from the only keeper since its repatriation, the Land Rover is offered with a current UK V5C registration document. The most solid and original example we have ever encountered, recent works carried out include a rewire, new fuel tank, overhaul of the brakes, a new exhaust and new tyres. A full inspection and service was carried out by TR Bitz who also fitted indicators, a new high-quality waterproof canvas hood and hood sticks. The unusal ‘Sand’ paintwork is complemented by correct ‘elephant hide’ seats (to original export specification). Ready to use and enjoy, this functional 4×4 will draw a crowd wherever parked and would look right at home on the ‘millionaire’s row’ beaches of Abersoch!
