Lot 198 - 1949 Land Rover Series I
| Lot Number | 198 |
| Registration | MPP 535 |
| Chassis Number | R06104968 |
| Odometer reading | 27,744 miles |
| Estimate | £35,000 - £45,000 |
In the aftermath of the second world war, Rover's chief engineer Maurice Wilks used a ‘demobbed' Willys Jeep around his farm in Anglesey and was impressed with its abilities. Eventually, it wore out and he was keen to replace it with a British vehicle, however, nothing remotely similar was available. Coincidentally, his brother Spencer, who was Managing Director at Rover, had reached the same conclusion as he struggled to get his Rover 10 to reach the more inaccessible parts of his estate on Islay. This is where `The Best 4x4 by Far' started - a utility vehicle devised in 1947, they would have no idea that Maurice's resulting design would become an icon and launch a whole new industry sector. The vehicle appeared as the 'Land Rover' in 1948 and proved so popular with the military and the farming fraternity that demand massively outstripped supply. It had an 80 inch wheelbase and a sturdy box section ladder-frame chassis, the open back arrangement with three seats in the front was undoubtedly influenced by the design of the Jeep. Naturally these vehicles were subject to lots of developments over a period of time and one of the most important of these was extending the wheelbase to give the vehicle a greater load capacity.
This outstanding Land Rover was originally registered on 9th December 1949 and after a splendid restoration project presents in excellent condition. The 1600cc engine starts at the touch of a button and the gearbox operates exactly as it should. Driving this early Land Rover is a joy and a testament to what a magnificent design this ‘headlamps behind the grille’utility vehicle is. With a ruggedness associated with the marque, yet steeped in history and tradition, this 80inch example is capable of turning heads wherever she appears. Supplied with a V5C registration document and a good history folder this Series I Land Rover is very realistically estimated given the condition.
Interested parties should satisfy themselves as to the description and condition of each Lot prior to the sale. Accordingly, buyers are on notice that each vehicle is offered ‘as is/as seen’ subject to the Terms and Conditions for the auction. All registration numbers, engine and chassis details are sourced from registration documents provided to Historics by the client or representative or HPI checks and buyers are to satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of these details. Buyers are advised to inspect the vehicle in person or use a professional to carry out this service. Historics will not entertain disputes over descriptions.