Lot Ended
Description
One civilian owner since its release from
the MOD in 1979; a genuine Lightweight with appealing patina; benefits from a
considerable amount of recent mechanical attention; ready to use and having
covered only 23,888 miles
Developed for the British military as a
compact, air-portable version of the Series Land
Rover, the Lightweight combined the rugged simplicity of the Series III with a
narrower track and removable body panels, making it ideal for service use and
now highly sought after by collectors. Good, honest examples with
long-term ownership are increasingly hard
to find, especially those retaining their original character and
patina.
This
1974 Series III Lightweight is finished in original Bronze Green and retains its
original 12-volt electrics. It has had just one
civilian owner since its release from the MOD in 1979, giving it a rare and
unusually personal history. The vendor explains that his father, a friend of
John Richards Surplus, asked them to source the best Lightweight they could find
as an 18th-birthday present. The vehicle
supplied was reportedly an early Series III prototype, used by the MOD as a
demonstration vehicle, and was described as being “like new” when
acquired.
Initially used on trade plates while the owner
waited to register it on a ‘W’ plate, the Land Rover has remained in his care
ever since. The paperwork includes 10 old MOT certificates, the current V5C, and
a selection of original parts: the original 6.50/16 wheels, matching
speedometer, towing hitch, wing-mirror arms, and the
bonnet-mounted spare wheel with retaining
bracket. The currently fitted 7.50/16 wheels improve drivability but the
original items accompany the sale. With only 16,618 miles on the original
speedometer and 7,270 miles on the revised unit to match the larger wheels
giving a total of only 23,888 miles.
The Lightweight has also benefited from a
considerable amount of recent mechanical attention, including new brake wheel
cylinders, a replacement brake master cylinder and brake shoes, four new Girling
shock absorbers, fresh axle check straps, a new fuel pump, ignition coil, points
and condensers, along with an engine oil and filter change and renewed coolant
hoses with fresh antifreeze.
Overall a genuine Lightweight with appealing
patina and a well-looked-after interior. The electric winch
is in good working order but has been disconnected for safety during the sale.
Importantly, the vehicle drove over 40 miles to Brightwells without issue,
demonstrating its continued mechanical health.
With its long-term ownership, original
specification, recent mechanical refresh and unusually well-preserved condition, this is a rare
opportunity to acquire a Lightweight with genuine provenance and character.
Offered only due to the vendor’s ill health, it represents a very
honest and appealing example of the breed.
Contact:
david.tassell@brightwells.com