The Land Rover made its world debut in 1948 at the Amsterdam Motor Show. On an 80-inch wheelbase it was a rock-solid machine that, like the Willis Jeep, was designed to go where other vehicles of the time could not, and be hosed down upon return. It did not take long before its aptitude off roads made it appealing as a workhorse to the agriculture market and in 1954 a longer 107-inch wheelbase model was developed. These first Land Rovers are referred to as Series I.

In 1958, the Series II was released and was a substantial improvement over its predecessor in every way. Series II was a larger vehicle with a more powerful engine, additional storage room and increased passenger comfort – it is no surprise that a year later a quarter million Land Rovers were “off” the road. It was during this period that Land Rover’s reputation for being the ultimate off-road machine was established, as it was allowing motorists to explore terrain previously reserved for horseback or by foot.

The Land Rover presented here is a 1969 Series IIA that sits on a short wheelbase, measuring 88-inches. With only 5,833 miles from restoration, it has an aluminum body fitted with galvanized steel bracing, a heavy box frame, high gear range as well as rear wheel drive for open road cruising. Also equipped with low gear range for climbing and descending along with, four-wheel drive to handle traction. It received a frame-off restoration with documentation and carries its original colors; green with a white top and black interior.

Cosmetically this example does appear to have some previous use as there is some scratching and a light patina to the body throughout. It is complete with steel wheels, BF Goodrich All Terrain TS 235 SJ R16; six in total, one spare on the hood and one on the rear door. One of the last production runs in late 1968; it was therefore titled as a 1969, however it carries all the specifications of a 1968 Land Rover. This example comes with its original tool kit, owner’s manual, and instruction booklet, photo album of restoration and original brochures. This is a true classic all-terrain vehicle that is very sought after for its rarity and collectability.