Lot Ended
Description
Showing 61,379 miles; manufactured in
January 1974; genuine former military vehicle with documented Royal Corps of
Transport history; substantial restoration during 2023 and
2024
First
registered for road use in October 1980, although manufactured in January 1974,
this handsome Land Rover Series III is a genuine former military vehicle with
documented Royal Corps of Transport history. Built as an 88-inch Commercial
Logistics (CL) model, it was dispatched from Land Rover on 4th January 1974 and
entered service with 44 Squadron, Royal Corps of Transport (RCT) at Camberley,
Surrey, carrying military registration 02 GB 63. Following its military career,
it was released from service on 20th May 1980 and subsequently registered with
the DVLA on 10th October 1980.
Little is known of its civilian life
thereafter, although the vehicle reportedly spent some 15 years stored in a barn
before being acquired by the vendor and undergoing a substantial restoration
during 2023 and 2024. At that time, it was described as being in poor condition
and finished in pale green paint. The decision was taken to return the vehicle
to its original military specification colour scheme, Deep Bronze Green
(Military Paint Code 72), resulting in the striking appearance it presents
today.
The
restoration was extensive and included stripping the vehicle down to the
chassis, repairs to the rear chassis quarters and replacement of the front
chassis dumb irons. Mechanical and structural work included a new fuel tank and
sender unit, all new brake pipes, brake shoes, wheel cylinders and master
cylinder, replacement rear differential seals and new wiring to the lighting
system. Further work included new front and rear lights, headlamp bowls, rear
door and glass, two new front doors, new door tops and glass, replacement seals
and locks, new speedometer cable, wipers, pedal rubbers and gear lever
gaiters.
Additional improvements include a new bumper
with military overriders, tow bar and electrics, mud flaps, floor mats, deluxe
seats, rear-view mirror and steering wheel. The vehicle was subsequently
repainted throughout in its original Deep Bronze Green
finish.
Showing
61,379 miles, the Land Rover presents extremely well and has an authentic
military appearance whilst benefiting from substantial recent expenditure.
Prospective purchasers should note that it would originally have been equipped
with a canvas tilt and standard steel wheels, although the vendor preferred its
current appearance.
The current V5C records 11 former keepers and
the accompanying paperwork includes the V5C, owner's handbook and a file of
invoices documenting restoration work.
The Land Rover Series III was the final and
most developed version of the original Series Land Rover, combining rugged
simplicity with impressive versatility. Military examples are particularly
sought after, offering proven durability together with fascinating service
history. With documented Royal Corps of Transport provenance, extensive
restoration work and a striking appearance, this smart ex-MOD example represents
an excellent opportunity to acquire a usable and highly characterful piece of
British military motoring history.
Contact:
david.tassell@brightwells.com