1956 Land Rover Series I 86" Commissioned for Royal Duties

Background:

belongs in the Motoring Hall of Fame. Hugely successful globally, improvements were made throughout its long lifespan. In 1950, the lights were moved from a position behind the grille to protrude through the mesh and in 1952 a larger 2-litre petrol engine replaced the original 1.6-litre. The wheelbase was extended to 86" in 1955 to give the vehicle more stability and greater load capacity and the stronger, more reliable 2-litre petrol engine was standard until 1957.

Over the years here at Iconic Auctioneers, in conjunction with Classic Car Auctions, we have been pleased to offer over 150 Land Rovers, including a good number of early vehicles, this perhaps has one of the most interesting back stories of all.

The Car:

The incredibly rare machine was manufactured on 27th of February 1956 and manufactured per Royal Commission and built as a parade vehicle with unique rear doors, rear step and passenger side step. After their State Visit in 1956, Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Phillip accepted an invitation from King Gustav and Queen Louise of Sweden to stay on privately in order to attend the Olympic Equestrian Competitions in Stockholm, which took place from 11th -16th of June.

One of the equestrian events was the Cross-Country for which it was desirable that the Royal Family and guests had a suitable vehicle which could be used to drive round the course and get a good view of the various fences. The Crown Equerry organised the supply of two short-wheelbase Land Rovers from Solihull which were shipped to Sweden on 18/05/1956, consigned for the Land Rover distributor in Stockholm.

Bespoke modifications included a unique split tailboard, rear and passenger door steps, revised canvas top, comfortable seating etc. (further details of the modifications and more history can be found in our 'Seller Rating'). We understand that the Land Rovers remained in Sweden until 1961 before returning to the UK.

Since then 'Daisy' has enjoyed only three previous owners over the last 69 years, with the current custodian having cared for UWB 708 since 1986. Whilst the rear and passenger door steps do not survive, the brackets from the side steps, the unique rear crossmember mounting lugs and the split rear doors do.

Solid bulkhead and chassis, running and driving having been in use for its entire life.

A piece of Land Rover and Royal History.

Location: Warwickshire

Seller: Private

Photography: Professional