The Series 3 was produced between1971 and 1985 with the slightly more comfortable County versions being introduced in 1981 featuring very stylish tweed seats, better soundproofing, tinted glass, door trims, roof lining.
This 1981 model is powered by the ever-reliable four-cylinder 2.25 petrol engine and has the 4 speed fully synchromesh gearbox and freewheeling hubs.
The Series 3 Land Rover is always going to be a much sought-after historic vehicle and un-restored, original examples in good overall condition, are becoming much harder to find.
There is not much in the way of history with this car but from its overall condition and originality one can tell that it has not been given too hard a life, probably being more accustomed to light road use and routine maintenance.
The current owner, a land rover enthusiast through and through, bought the car a year ago, as a keeper, from a lady owner who had owned it for around 4 years.
Since his ownership, the car has been given a ‘light’ restoration. It has been fully serviced and checked over and treated to new tyres, mudflaps, up-rated halogen headlights, front bumper, and various other parts as have been required.
There are some previous MOT’s and a few bills regarding servicing and repairs but not much else.
The stated mileage of 7,000 is in line with MOT’s (which date back to 2013) showing 2,200 miles but it’s difficult to conclude anything concrete as to its life before then.
The interior is a nice place to be with everything being original although showing signs of age and gentle use.
This is a six-seater version benefitting from the large central storage box between the two front seats and the original seat coverings are still in place. There is some damage to one of the rear seats and the floor mats all look in good condition.
The headlining is in good shape and all the switchgear and controls are reported to all work perfectly.
The Safari roof with vents and alpine lights all add to the feeling of internal comfort and space.
It is rare to find a Series 3 County Station Wagon with such a complete interior in such good overall original condition, and this certainly adds to the character and desirability of this Series 3.
Its distinctive side stripes and Masai Red paintwork coupled with the white Safari roof makes this Series 3 really stand out from the crowd.
The chassis and underneath are all original and, although showing a lot of surface rust, are believed to all be in good solid overall condition.
The body work and panels all look straight and true with no signs being evident of any accidents or major repair work but are all showing signs of peeling paint and rusting where the aluminium panels meet the sheet metal framework, and there are a few dings here and there, but she still looks great.
Rubber seals, external metal fixtures and badging are all showing signs of age, or if you prefer, patina.
Wheels are in great shape and overall the impression is one of a good, honest un-restored and unmolested car that has true character and presence.
Mechanically the car is reported to ‘run like a Swiss watch’ being a fun and easy to maintain car that is more than suitable for everyday use. On inspection it started cold for the first time and settled nicely.
The current owner reports no issues to concern or advise the next owner with MOT expiry March 2022.
This is a very honest looking, unmolested, and original Series 3 County Station Wagon in the nicer colour of Masai Red that would be a pleasure to own.
Un-restored examples are very sought-after by the ever-growing numbers of Land Rover enthusiasts and finding ones in such good overall condition is becoming a lot harder.
The current owner has been using the car regularly, reporting that it is fun and a real pleasure to drive and reluctantly, is offering the car up for auction so the next owner can enjoy it for the next forty years. One thing is for certain, these Land Rovers are never going to go out of style.
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. Please ensure you are satisfied with the vehicle description and all information provided before placing a bid.
As is normal for most auctions, this vehicle is sold as seen, and therefore the Sale 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 seller's discretion.
Car & Classic's secure payment system protects buyers and sellers. At the end of the auction, the winning bidder transfers payment into a third-party escrow account. Once the transfer of the vehicle is complete, both parties confirm they are happy with the sale and the money is released to the seller.
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1981 Land Rover Series 3 County Station Wagon
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