A rare opportunity to acquire an exceptionally restored and very desirable 1949 Land Rover Series 1 80″ Lights behind the grill.

In 1947, Maurice Wilks, Rover’s chief designer, devised a plan to create a lightweight agricultural utility vehicle. Little did he know that his design would become an iconic symbol and pioneer an entirely new industry sector. The original Land Rover, finished in sage green with a canvas roof, revolutionized rural transportation. As an engineering marvel, it still surpasses many modern vehicles in capability, earning its rightful place in the Motoring Hall of Fame. Hugely successful worldwide, the Land Rover Series I underwent continuous improvements throughout its production.

This vehicle has covered less than 100 miles since restoration.

Purchased in 2009 by its current owner, A fanatically series 1 Land Rover collector having many, many cars in the collection.

This car will restored by John Taylor, one of the most renounded series 1 restoration specialists. Series 1 restorations, especially the early models, are extremely difficult now due to parts supply (like the later series 2 and 3 models)

BODYWORK

Professionally painted in ‘panel form’, this 1949 series Land Rover has near perfect paintwork

The chassis is in perfect condition and has been restored to the highest standards, including replacing any necessary outriggers. It has been finished in the right shade of green.

Most of the original components have been refurbished, and when certain parts were beyond repair, genuine Land Rover new-old stock components were used.



INTERIOR



It features a brand-new set of front seats, along with a new canvas and flaps from Undercover Covers. No expense has been spared in bringing this Land Rover to its current exceptional condition.


ENGINE



The engine bay has been meticulously detailed and finished to the highest standards. The restoration includes the original 1600cc engine, which matches the vehicle’s original specifications.

The vehicle has recently been serviced and is now ready to use and enjoyed.



ON THE ROAD



The engine fires at the turn of the key, always starting on the first try and running smoothly. It pulls strongly.

With the canvas sides rolled up and the door tops removed, this vehicle turns heads wherever it goes.

The gears shift seamlessly, thanks to the main gearbox being inspected by a specialist and having any necessary parts replaced.

It’s also been fitted with a brand-new matching set of five Extra Traction cross-ply tires, which have barely covered 100 miles. In our opinion, a Land Rover isn’t complete without the proper tires, and these are a perfect fit.

SUMMARY

This is an outstanding example of a Series 1 restoration. All numbers match perfectly—the chassis numbers on the plates align with those on the logbook registration document and the chassis itself.

As one of the best value-for-money 1949 80” models available today, this Land Rover has clearly been cherished and meticulously cared for by its previous owners. It’s in exceptional condition, requiring no work, and is ready to be driven and enjoyed.

For investors, it’s worth noting how these vehicles have appreciated significantly over the past five years, with some even doubling in value.