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 revolutionized 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 Series 1 86 inch was first registered on 13/06/1955 in Southampton, Hampshire the car has been continuously maintained rather than restored during its life and remains in fine fettle.

Having been in the ownership of the previous custodian for over 18 years, Evidence of the continued upkeep of OAA 308 is on file with details of a full engine rebuild aprox 12,000 miles ago when an aluminum head and SU carburetor (from a Rover 60) were fitted to improve its general drivability. The original head, carburettor and many other spares are included in the sale. It has also been fitted with a Fairey overdrive and MAP freewheeling hubs, along with a new Autosparks wiring loom.

A presentable car both inside and out, with scope for some further aesthetic improvements should you wish, this matching-numbers, 1955 Landie is an honest example with great charm that could be cosmetically tweaked a bit, or just left to do what Land Rovers do best.

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