Chassis No.
3-663-3393
| Sant’Agata, Bolognese, Italy
1953 Minerva Land Rover Series I
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€11,550 EUR | Sold
European Offering
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- Interesting “Complete Knock Down” Land Rover provided to the Belgian Army
- 2.0-liter inline-four-cylinder engine; four-speed manual transmission
- Under 10,400 km (~6,460 mi) indicated
- Unique, presentable, and mostly original
- Accompanied by BMIHT Certificate
Addendum
Please note, owing to the UK having now left the European Customs Union, buyers should be aware of any and all implications of purchasing a UK registered lot, including but not limited to this lot being subject to VAT on the full purchase price if it is to remain in the EU except Italy for which has been declared without VAT to be paid. §
In 1951, the Belgian Army was searching for a new light-use 4x4 truck, and the domestic company Minerva was encouraged to enter the bidding process. Minerva approached the UK-based Rover about a licensed production contract for their indomitable Series I model. A deal was struck between the two companies, authorizing the sale of CKD or “Complete Knock Down” kits from Rover to Minerva. These provided a powertrain and chassis, upon which the Belgians were to put a steel body with slight, but distinctive, differences from that of a UK-made Land Rover Series I. The CKD agreement stayed in place until 1956, by which roughly 2,500 examples had been produced.
This mid-production example offered here was completed in 1953. Because it was supplied by Rover, a British Motor Industries Heritage Trust Certificate accompanies this Minerva confirming its original specifications. While BMIHT Certificates do not indicate engine numbers for CKD vehicles, the 2.0-liter inline-four-cylinder installed in this Land Rover is of the appropriate type and is numbered in the age-appropriate range.
Although delivered for military application, this Land Rover lived an unbattered life, having seen very limited use and mileage in harsh conditions. It has survived with a solid body and chassis and a significant number of original hard-to-find items such as original keys, distributor, lights, switches, gauges, marked side glasses, original fuel tank and many other details rarely preserved on these cars. The seats have been re-covered in the correct material while under the consignor’s care, and electrical and brakes system have also received careful attention and servicing. This Minerva also reportedly benefits from a full fluid flush and a new set of period-style tires of the correct type.
This 1953 Minera Land Rover Series I CKD is a unique, alluring, and rarely seen example of military history that can be driven and enjoyed.
