In many ways, the Series II was the first of the everlasting Land Rovers.
Introduced in 1958, it added a touch of styling to the original utilitarian mix, becoming the first Land Rover to feature the model’s famous ‘barrel sides’, which were as much about practicality as they were about improving the looks as they increase cabin space, albeit to a still fairly cramped level. But hey, this is an old Land Rover and utilitarianism is part of its appeal, if not the very core.
The SII was also the first to feature a choice of 88 or 109-inch wheelbases, which would go on to be used on Series Land Rover models right up until 1986, while the Series models were still sold alongside their coil-sprung successors.
It was also one of the most short-lived Land Rover models, built between 1958 and 1961. After less than three-years, it was replaced by the Series II A, which features more body options, a slightly more luxurious cabin and the option of overdrive.
This example is a 1960 Series II in pure basic Land Rover form – no rear seats, a canvas tilt and precious little in the way of creature comforts. Just how they should be, indeed, for the full immersive experience.
It has been rebuilt from the ground up on a galvanised steel chassis over a period of two years and is now in a condition that is probably better than that in which it left the factory. The owner has also said he is happy to export the vehicle overseas and encourages global bidders.
Acquired by its present owner in 2018, VRX 244 was a down-at-heel green Series II soft-top that was desperately in need of recommissioning.
Luckily, it found the attention of a serial Land Rover collector, who has a track record of restoring them to concours standard, so over a 24-month period it was completely stripped and rebuilt upon a new galvanised 88-inch chassis supplied by noted Land Rover specialist John Brown 4x4.
At the same time, it was fitted with a fully rebuilt and recommissioned engine, supplied boxed and ‘as new’ by Turner Engineering – another of the famous names in the Land Rover scene. The chassis and engine alone cost thousands of pounds.
What followed was a nut-and-bolt rebuild carried out to a painstaking standard by a man who clearly loves and adores his Land Rovers – you’ll see why when you go to pick it up, as this is just one of several concours restorations he’s got on the go, some for himself, others for people who have asked him to carry out the work on their trucks as he’s known to be one of the best.
There are piles of bills and receipts with the Land Rover documenting all of the parts purchased for its rebuild – add them up and it’s well in excess of five figures before you even consider the skill, love and attention to detail that has gone into creating this example.
It also has a full V5C and a fresh UK MoT, as even though it is exempt from testing the certificate will reassure the new owner of its roadworthiness.
There’s not much inside an original Series Land Rover, so in terms of overall condition and things to go wrong, the list is pretty moderate.
But that’s not to denigrate the amazing quality and detail of restoration work on this vehicle. The three front seats have been hand-trimmed in tan leather and are immeasurably better than anything ever offered by Land Rover itself.
The original ID plate and gear selectors are present and correct while the instrument binnacle is also carried over from the original vehicle, while it also has the benefit of Lucas electric windscreen wipers with manual override – anyone who has sat in a Series II in their childhood is bound to remember the fun of wiggling the toggle switch to wipe the screen themselves!
Put simply, you won’t find a Series II better than this. The bodywork is spotless in its distinctive Fuji White colour scheme – the owner’s favourite, and something a bit different from its original green.
It has been rebuilt on a brand new galvanised chassis and the tub has been completely restored, while it also has a galvanised bulkhead and windscreen surround.
The doors were restored and a pair of galvanised door tops (still boxed) are included in the sale should the new owner wish to bolt them on – the current owner prefers it without, but it’s a 10-minute job.
During the restoration, the Series II also got a new beige canvas tilt and galvanised hood poles to replace the rusted originals. It also comes with a set of brand new Michelin Altitude tyres and an LED light conversion, which replaces the original bulbs with much brighter LEDs. While this is an acquired taste, they were added by the current owner to make it more usable as the lighting is far more effective. He will supply a set of original lights with the truck or is happy to put it back to original specification for the next owner.
Other details include galvanised tub top panels, new rubber seals all round and a full brand-new wiring loom.
Absolutely anything that needed renewing during the course of the Land Rover’s restoration has been renewed. As a result, it comes with brand new parabolic springs all round, the aforementioned Turner Engineering 2.25-litre petrol engine, a new radiator and new propshaft. It has also been fitted with a reconditioned transmission and a pair of overhauled differentials to make it as close as possible to a brand new vehicle.
It has also had new brake pipes, cylinders and linings.
Needless to say, it starts on the button and runs beautifully – it’s a vehicle that has wanted for nothing.
If you’re in the market for an immaculate Series Land Rover and want one that has nothing to hide, then this is it. It won’t be cheap, but it’s as close as you’ll get to a brand-new example of what’s essentially one of the rarest Series models and has been rebuilt by someone whose enthusiasm for the vehicle, and for all of his Land Rovers, is truly infectious.
You’ll love it. It’s a potential show winner, a tremendous quality restoration and a vehicle that exudes character from every pore.
Notice to bidders
Although every care is taken to ensure this listing is as factual and transparent as possible, all details within the listing are subject to the information provided to us by the seller. Car & Classic does not take responsibility for any information missing from the listing.
As is normal for most auctions, this vehicle is sold as seen, and therefore the Sales of Goods Act 1979 does not apply. All bids are legally binding once placed. Any winning bidder who withdraws from a sale, is subject to our bidders fee charge. Please see our FAQs and T&C's for further information. Viewings of vehicles are encouraged, but entirely at the sellers discretion.
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1960 Land Rover Series II
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