1977 LAND ROVER SERIES III 2.3-LITRE SWB HARDTOP

Chassis no: 90328336A

Engine no: 90211837C

Land Rover Series III production ran from 1971 until 1985 and included this iconic, short wheel base 2.3-litre model which saw the mile stone of the 1,000,000th Land Rover, built in 1976.

Many changes took place in the later part of the extraordinary life story of the Land Rover, which began in 1948 and had been constantly updated to meet its popularity and the ever- increasing demands from the competition. This was the first model to feature synchromesh on all four gears. Along with trends in modern automotive interior design in the early 1970s, both for safety and the utilisation of more advanced materials, the simple metal dashboard of earlier models was modified to a moulded plastic structure and the instrument cluster was moved to the driver's side from its previous centre location.

This example for auction is a cherished family item within the Savage collection. Delivered new to New Zealand, it was first bought 1977 by a dentist, Mr. Robert Simpson, of Taupo. It was purchased by Roy Savage in May, 1978 with 25,762kms on the clock. This car has a 4-speed gearbox with over-drive for road use and free-wheeling hubs; padded seats in the rear in black vinyl; a heater, clock and radio. It features its period army style interior mats and shows patina consistent with its age and use.

This classic Land Rover is finished in traditional cream and currently shows an odometer reading of approx. 77,700kms. It presents an opportunity to acquire a classic on road/off road gem with comparatively minimal mileage in the hands of only its second owner who held it in this single ownership for 38 years.

This vehicle will be sold licenced with WoF.