1949 Land Rover Series I 80" 4x4 Utility
Registration no. DSV 854
Chassis no. 06103004
Engine no. 06103116

Inspired by the US Army's wartime 'Jeep', developed in haste and intended for short-term, small-scale production, the Land Rover would defy its creators' initial scepticism. Rover bosses the Wilks brothers saw the need for a tough, four-wheel-drive, utility vehicle to serve the needs of the agricultural community in the immediate post-war years, but the Land Rover's runaway success following its introduction in 1948 took the company by surprise.

The necessity of using corrosion resistant aluminium panels at a time of severe steel shortage turned into a positive virtue in the Land Rover's sphere of operations, and the use of existing components - including the P3 saloon's 1,595cc, four-cylinder, sidevalve engine - kept production costs down and cut development time. There was permanent four-wheel drive with a lockable freewheel for the front axle, a Rover four-speed gearbox, and a two-speed transfer box offering high and low ranges. Ruggedly built and simple in construction, the Land Rover proved capable of surviving in countries where conditions were primitive to say the least, a virtue that helped contribute to its worldwide acceptance. Indeed, it is estimated that two-thirds of all Land Rovers ever produced are still in existence today.

'DSV 854' is a very early and equally rare Land Rover Series I 'lights behind grille' model. The vehicle is understood to retain its original chassis and front/rear body but has been fitted with a new bulkhead and tailgate. Other noteworthy features include the rare winch (fitted from new) and military-type spit-rim wheels. The Land Rover has been restored as a British Army ¼-ton truck with the markings of the 1st East Anglian Regiment (Royal Norfolk and Suffolk).

Offered with a photocopy of the old-style logbook and current V5C, as well as assorted history detailing previous owners etc, the vehicle is described by the vendor as in good condition in every respect.