1973 Land Rover Series III 4-cylinder Petrol

Land Rover had continued to update the original 1948 model from inception, and the Series III was the culmination of nearly thirty years of development and improvements. For the first time, they sought a new buyer demographic, amongst leisure users. The Series III had the same body and engine options as the preceding IIA and was little changed cosmetically from the IIA to the Series III, however, the III is the most common with 440,000 of the type built from 1971 to 1985.

The headlights were moved to the wings on late production IIA models from 1968/9 onward (ostensibly to comply with Australian, American and Dutch lighting regulations) and remained in this position for the Series III. The traditional metal grille, featured on the Series I, II and IIA, was replaced with a plastic one for the Series III model. The 2.25-litre engine had its compression raised from 7:1 to 8:1 increasing the power slightly although the high compression engine had been an optional fit on the IIa model for several years, During the Series III production run between 1971 and 1985, the 1,000,000th Land Rover rolled off the line in 1976.

First registered on 19th March 1973, this Series III Land Rover has had, incredibly, just one owner from new. Having been supplied initially by Land Rover dealer, MJ Fews, this Series III has been enjoyed by the same gentleman for all 43 years of its life and is in very original condition, even down to the original radio. It has a beautiful patina both inside and out, and we are told the engine and gearbox all run smoothly. It has retained the original 'wing mounted' mirrors, however, more modern mirrors and an extra brake light have been added to assist with modern driving conditions. All the panels seem true, but there is evidence of occasional brushes with the scenery, which is, as I understand it, is exactly what Land Rovers are for! The removable hard-top is easily switchable with a canvas rag-top. Past MOTs and an invoice going back to 1997, show that this Series III has done less than 3,000 miles in the last 20 years, making this a remarkable vehicle. Cosmetically, there is a bit to go at, but that shouldn't matter. She is a bit like your favourite Granny; no longer wearing her 'Sunday Best' but totally reliable and always pleased to see you. One to keep.