Vehicle Description
This is a super fine example of a series III Land Rover. Starting
production just after WWII, the Land Rover was developed as a
reliable and tough vehicle that could go anywhere. And it has! It's
been used by civilians and the military from Africa to New Zealand.
This '74 Series III has some rare options, and has had a complete
frame off restoration.
This vehicle looks like it was outfitted for the African bush. A
simple, tough bumper leads the way, and there are wire guards over
the headlamps. Front fenders that immediately identify this as a
Land Rover cover the tough steel wheels and cradle the grill
between them to keep it out of harm's way. Big vents at the base of
the windshield can be opened to let lots of air in. One of the rare
options this truck has is the Safari roof. It is a double layer
roof meant to provide better air flow and keep the heat down. Side
doors open with simple, reliable, recessed levers, and there is a
single large door out back to let you into the cargo area. This
truck is refinished in the correct factory colors, and it looks
great! It even has period correct stickers on the back-glass
touting Land Rover's competition victories, and one sticker that
indicates someone belonged to a really cool surf club back in the
day.
Most of the interior on this truck is original or OEM replacement.
All the glass has correct Land Rover markings. It is very clean and
everything works. A big leather wrapped steering wheel has the
critical gauges easily visible in front of you with the speedo
marked in both Km/h and MPH. There are three bucket seats across
the front, but the person in the middle should be mindful of the 4
levers at their feet while under way, 5 if you count the emergency
brake lever! No window cranks or regulators here. The windows
simply slide forward or back to open and close. The inside door
handle is as simple and direct as the outside one. The back of this
model is accessed through the single large door mentioned
previously, and is outfitted with bench seats facing each other on
either side of the vehicle. The spare tire is mounted between them
against the back of the front seats.
The 4 cylinder, 2.25 litre, "petrol" (gas) engine in this truck
stays with the simple and reliable theme. The power flows back
through a 4-speed gearbox, operated by one of the levers inside,
the gearshift. Then it goes to the transfer case which has 2
operating levers, 1 for selecting 4WD and one for choosing Hi or
Low range. Ah, but the 4th lever is the other rare option on this
truck. It is a Superwinch brand overdrive that will operate in any
gear! Leaf springs cradle solid axles front and rear with the
original locking hubs, and all the steering gear is tucked up out
of harm's way while power front disc brakes provide great stopping
power. Part of the restoration process on this truck was a very
detailed mechanical restoration of all the driveline systems with
thorough rebuilds and many new parts. The underside of this vehicle
is very clean with lots of new hardware.
If you appreciate the history of these trucks, or are an adventure
rally enthusiast, or just want a sweet ride that stands apart from
the crowd, then come on down and check this one out.