Land Rover Series 1 80" 1953 Outstanding Restoration

SOLD

A rare opportunity to acquire an exceptionally restored and very desirable 1953 Land Rover Series 1 80".

This vehicle was previously sold by ourselves over 3 years ago, the previous owner decided to change to a 1948 Land Rover and so we got the opportunity to buy it back. Since our ownership the vehicle now has hand painted number plates, fairly overdrive, clayton heater, matching rear bench seats, a period battery and a few other upgrades. These will be shown in some up to date pictures shortly and have all been done to the highest standard and are in keeping with the quality of the rest of the vehicle.


When Maurice Wilks, Rover's chief designer, came up with a plan to produce a light agricultural utility vehicle in 1947 he would have no idea that his design would become an icon and launch a whole new industry sector. The original Land Rover was presented in sage green with a canvas roof and revolutionised rural transport. As an engineering marvel it can still outstrip its modern counterparts, and the Series I rightly belongs in the Motoring Hall of Fame. Hugely successful globally, improvements were made throughout the production run. In 1950 the lights moved from a position behind the grill to protrude through the grill and in 1952 a larger 2.0 litre petrol engine replaced the original 1.6 litre.

This vehicle has covered less than 1500 miles since restoration. Vehicles like this don't often come on the market.



BODYWORK

409 YUE comes with a comprehensive collection of photos to show the restoration work that has been carries out over a two year period. It has had new one piece wings from Keith Wadsworth, door tops etc.

The rear tub unlike most Land Rovers is remarkably straight in the back and doesn't show any signs of hard use.

The bulkhead is exceptionally solid and original, despite a few minor dents.

The chassis is immaculate and has been restored to the highest standards having any necessary outriggers and a new rear crossmemember so that you can't see any pitting in the chassis. It has then been finished in the correct bronze green.

YUE has always had a spare wheel fitted in the back and has the more attractive bonnet without the wheel mounting. The underside of the bonnet is unpainted and back to the bare aluminum as it would have left the factory.

Most original components have been reconditioned. When some parts were found to be beyond repair, original Land Rover new-old stock components were used.



INTERIOR

It has a complete set of front seats from Exmoor trim that are the correct square back type for the age of the vehicle. It had also had a new canvas and flaps from Exmoor there has certainly been no expense spared on this Land Rover with thousands of pounds worth of receipts for parts in the history file.

The door tops have had new channels and glass all round.

Under the passenger seat the compartment contains the original jack, wooden handle for the jack, wheel brace.

The load area is exceptionally clean and doesn't show any sights of heavy use.



UNDER THE BONNET

The engine bay has been extremely well detailed and finished to the highest of standards. The restoration includes an overhauled later 2-litre unit, dated 1958

The rebuilt 2-litre petrol engine gives huge improvements in reliability, looking very similar in appearance to the original. The later engine block is known as the 'spread bore' engine design, which has a greater gap between the cylinders, thus giving improved reliability and less chance of head gasket failure whilst also reducing the risk of a cracked block.



ON THE ROAD

The engine busts into life on the turn of the key. It always starts first time and is a great runner. The vehicle really does pull very well it will go up most hills in 3rd gear.

It is apparent that the restorer was very meticulous and his attention to detail is excellent and he has greased many non-moving parts underneath in order to preserve them and protect them from corrosion.

With the canvas sides rolled up and the door tops off this vehicle really does draw some attention.

The vehicle will be supplied with a 12 month MOT with no advisories. Four wheel drive and low range engage as they should.

The gears change up and down as they should and it really does drive very well, the vehicle now benefits from a Fairly overdrive.

Almost all Series Land Rovers we have had drip a little oil, some quite a lot, 409 YUE is the exception though no drips of oil to speak of even after standing for days in the same place.

The steering is as it should be and the vehicle doesn't wonder on the road like some series vehicles do.

It has just had a full matching set of 5 Lassa tyres which haven't even covered 50 miles. They are the cross ply style and in our opinion vehicles never look right unless they are on the right tyres.



Over 30 pictures are available of the vehicle at the dropbox link provided below.



https://www.dropbox.com/sh/scge3dxtv3aljhx/AACgtcTnX7P8n4Lp_SYTy1nYa?dl=0





SUMMARY



409 YUE is an outstanding example of a Series 1 restoration. All the numbers match - the chassis numbers on the plates are the same as on the log book registration document and that stamped on the chassis itself. Other than the engine number it is a matching numbers vehicle.

This is one of the best restored 1953 80" we have ever had the opportunity to own. This Land Rover has obviously been cared for and cherished by its previous owners. It is a fantastic example that requires no work and is ready to use and enjoy this summer.

If you are an investor then you will already know how these vehicles have appreciated over the last 10 years some doubling in value.

This a very honest 65 year old Series Land Rover. What you see is what you get it looks and drives exactly as it should. You will have to go a long way to find a better vehicle.

This is perfect to celebrate this years 70th anniversary of Land Rovers.


VIEWING



We will, of course, be happy for serious buyers to view the car by appointment with reasonable notice.


Try our new free valuations service http://www.williamsclassics.co.uk/valuations/


http://www.williamsclassics.co.uk

Any trail or inspection welcome, Credit and debit cards accepted, Delivery can also be arranged, P/X welcome, Any enquires please call 078255 87155 or 01745 798681.

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