Model History

It all started in 1948 with the Series 1 Land Rover…back then it was just “The Land Rover”. The Rover Car Company started off in the mid-1800’s selling sewing machines, tricycles and bicycles. By the 1930’s, it had evolved into a car company but was hit badly by the Depression. As was common with many factories of the time, they were turned over to help the war effort and produced engines for tanks and aircraft. By the time the war ended, Rover found itself nicely positioned with skilled workers and updated factories.  By the end of the first full year of sales, nearly 8000 Land Rovers were sold far exceeding the expected volume of 5000. And so the love affair with Land Rover began.

Despite the success, by 1958 it was clear Rover needed a major overhaul to their original offering. The Series II had more power, a better suspension, a better turning radius, and best of all was the introduction of the long wheel base to haul you and 11 of your best friends. As with all great things though, they must come to an end. And in 1971, Rover once again knew in order to keep up with the market pace, a new Series was needed…if only they had a good name for it.

The Series III, as it was aptly named, was introduced in 1971 as a successor to the outgoing IIA. The body remained virtually unchanged, the most significant change was the incorporation of a synchromesh on all forward gears and revised ratios. Clutch design was modified to include a diaphragm spring for easier and quieter use. Brakes were improved, the dash was redesigned with the addition of padding and the instrument panel was moved to be in front of the driver. The door interiors were upholstered, and a much-improved heater was fitted. Heat, there’s a luxury not many 4×4’s of the time thought were standard equipment. The Series III would end production in 1982 as the incoming One Ten (soon to be Defender) took its place.

Car History

Second Daily is proud to present this North American Specification Series III 88 survivor, recorded as chassis#: 25900271A and Engine#: 25600355. Finished in Land Rover Light Green, this one retains 100% of its originality (minus the body colored top respray), complete with the tools and paperwork from new. Sold new through Hoover Motors in Milton, MA, it has seen only 7200 miles since leaving the dealer’s lot 45 years ago. Legend has it that this 88 was picked up from the dealership and driven 230 miles to the original owners’ estate in Dixville Notch, NH. It is believed this is the only time the vehicle experienced public roads. This Series was used on the family estate, The Balsams Grand Resort, as a work horse. Its job was to aid in clearing trails and estate roads of fallen trees and general grounds maintenance. When not out working the fields, it was quietly stored away in a heated barn protected from the elements. The seller reports this Series was serviced during the summer (oils/fluids). It has been serviced several times a year regardless of mileage. The vehicle starts and runs immediately with no issues, and no leaks are reported.

According to the original import document, it was highly optioned with a wheel rack mount, sun-visor and rear step that added just over $28 to the $3,998 base price. The word “deluxe” was used twice to describe both the seating for 7 and the interior trim. Even in 1972 that was a bit of stretch for a Series III, but that is the exact reason why these trucks are still so endearing to us all today.

Exterior

This Series is a true survivor and is not restored, so therefore expect some natural and charismatic patina consisting of a few scrapes, dings, and light surface oxidation in places. The chassis is reportedly rot/corrosion free. The bulkhead/firewall area has no rot or corrosion and shows quite well in the pictures. The original owner commissioned the hardtop to be painted to match the body color. With this exception, the exterior is 100% original and presents in very good condition. The Triplex Toughened glass is reportedly all original as well.

This Series was fitted with an original Koenig power take off winch (L721) and comes with the original instructions and warranty slip. All door and window seals are complete, and the seller states the window seal felts could use some attention. Surface rust can be seen on the chassis, shocks and steering components but is reportedly all solid.

To be sold with this 88 is the original and complete tool kit, including the jack, jack handle with extensions, tire pump, and an extra pint of Berger paint.

Interior

Step inside this ’72 Series III and you’ll experience what it felt like 45 years ago leaving the dealership. With seating for seven (3 front, 4 rear), everything is intact, nothing missing, nothing changed. The headliner is without issues, the deluxe door cards present well, and the dash and under fascia panels all are as they were when new. The seat cushions all look good except the driver seat cushion has a minor split in the stitching.

The front seating allows for three and the rear benches accomodate four.  All of the switches and knobs are present, and the 7,200 miles shows clearly through the gauge glass. The floor pans are completeley original and solid, indicating the surface rust seen underneath is just that and nothing more.

Documentation

This Series is supplied with everything from new, including:

• Original window sticker/invoice
• Original “running in” instructions
• British Leyland Passport to Service
• Booklet: Rover Distributors and Dealers
• Instruction Manual with original cardboard carton
• Rover Owner Association application
• Tire safety leaflet from UK
• Three Land Rover trim shop progress tabs, found in door cards
• Trim shop tabs still attached to rear sear cushions

Market Value

Values for average Series III’s range from approximately $18,000 to over $40,000. Market value for a vehicle like this has to be adjusted for its pure originality and unique mileage history. Opportunities to purchase one with this level of original documentation, tools, and bolt-ons rarely ever exist. The reserve has been very reasonably set given the condition, history, and originality.

Final Thoughts

This vehicle represents a unique opportunity to purchase a genuine low mileage Series III with all the paperwork and supplied equipment as new. It was purchased from the original owner’s estate and has stayed with the current (second) owner since 2004. The current owner has only driven approximately 2,000 miles in 13 years, they would like to see this Series go to a deserving enthusiast who will appreciate this unique vehicle.

Inspections are welcomed if arranged in advance, and Second Daily will cover the inspection cost up to $200 if you purchase the vehicle.

Giving Back

Partial proceeds from the sale of this vehicle will benefit the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. Their mission is to advance new treatments and pursue promising research towards curing CF.