1974 Land Rover Series III

Description

This is a super fine example of a series III Land Rover. Starting production just after WWII, the Land Rover was developed as a reliable and tough vehicle that could go anywhere. And it has! It's been used by civilians and the military from Africa to New Zealand. This '74 Series III has some rare options, and has had a complete frame off restoration.

This vehicle looks like it was outfitted for the African bush. A simple, tough bumper leads the way, and there are wire guards over the headlamps. Front fenders that immediately identify this as a Land Rover cover the tough steel wheels and cradle the grill between them to keep it out of harm's way. Big vents at the base of the windshield can be opened to let lots of air in. One of the rare options this truck has is the Safari roof. It is a double layer roof meant to provide better air flow and keep the heat down. Side doors open with simple, reliable, recessed levers, and there is a single large door out back to let you into the cargo area. This truck is refinished in the correct factory colors, and it looks great! It even has period correct stickers on the back-glass touting Land Rover's competition victories, and one sticker that indicates someone belonged to a really cool surf club back in the day.

Most of the interior on this truck is original or OEM replacement. All the glass has correct Land Rover markings. It is very clean and everything works. A big leather wrapped steering wheel has the critical gauges easily visible in front of you with the speedo marked in both Km/h and MPH. There are three bucket seats across the front, but the person in the middle should be mindful of the 4 levers at their feet while under way, 5 if you count the emergency brake lever! No window cranks or regulators here. The windows simply slide forward or back to open and close. The inside door handle is as simple and direct as the outside one. The back of this model is accessed through the single large door mentioned previously, and is outfitted with bench seats facing each other on either side of the vehicle. The spare tire is mounted between them against the back of the front seats.

The 4 cylinder, 2.25 litre, "petrol" (gas) engine in this truck stays with the simple and reliable theme. The power flows back through a 4-speed gearbox, operated by one of the levers inside, the gearshift. Then it goes to the transfer case which has 2 operating levers, 1 for selecting 4WD and one for choosing Hi or Low range. Ah, but the 4th lever is the other rare option on this truck. It is a Superwinch brand overdrive that will operate in any gear! Leaf springs cradle solid axles front and rear with the original locking hubs, and all the steering gear is tucked up out of harm's way while power front disc brakes provide great stopping power. Part of the restoration process on this truck was a very detailed mechanical restoration of all the driveline systems with thorough rebuilds and many new parts. The underside of this vehicle is very clean with lots of new hardware.

If you appreciate the history of these trucks, or are an adventure rally enthusiast, or just want a sweet ride that stands apart from the crowd, then come on down and check this one out.