The Land Rover Series I Two-Wheel Drive variant is an intriguing chapter in the history of the iconic British off-road brand. While the majority of Land Rover's reputation has been built around rugged 4x4 capability, this model represents a unique divergence from that narrative. Introduced during the early years of the Series I production, the two-wheel drive configuration catered to specific market needs and demonstrated the brand's adaptability. The Series I was initially launched in 1948, aimed at serving agricultural and utility markets, with a strong focus on versatility. It featured a sturdy, boxy design, simple mechanics, and a highly durable chassis. The British Army wanted to order Series I Land Rovers but did not want the four-wheel drive variant and asked Land Rover to build them two-wheel drive variants. This was a fairly simple thing for Land Rover to do, all that was needed was to leave out the front propshaft, blank off the transfer box output and put a tubular front axle beam without a differential. Mechanically, the two-wheel drive version shared many components with its four-wheel drive counterpart, including the petrol engine, most commonly the 1.6 litre inline-four, later upgraded to a 2.0 litre unit. Aesthetically, the two-wheel drive Series I retained the rugged charm of the standard Land Rover, with its aluminium alloy body panels and utilitarian design. Bizarrely the two-wheel drive version was more expensive than its four-wheel drive counterpart.

This 1957 manufactured Land Rover has a very interesting history. The British Army ordered 675 two-wheel drive Series I's with the chassis numbers ranging from 1118-00962 to 1118-01911. The chassis number of this car is 1118-00962 making it the first one delivered to the Army, which took place on 12th February 1958. Our vendor has owned this Land Rover since 1982, although the V5 registration document shows a recent change of name within the family. When he purchased the car, he was unaware of the two-wheel drive nature of the Land Rover and went on a mission to find its heritage. Marque expert James Taylor was able to fill in the missing pieces and the car was featured in the April 2018 magazine Land Rover Owner International. A couple of years into his ownership, the car failed the MoT and it was put into storage for 30 years! A restoration was then carried out with the vendor not wanting to 'over restore' the car. Particular attention was paid to maintaining the Land Rovers patina, particularly to the bodywork. In 2016 unfortunately a fire put the car off the road again. Fortunately, the insurance company recognised the historical value to the car and agreed to the repairs. These were mainly under-bonnet repairs, including a new fuel pump, carburettor, alternator and wiring loom. The vendor has also rebuilt the 2.0 litre engine and fitted a new clutch during his stewardship. Offered to the market for the first time in over 40 years, this two-wheel drive Land Rover is exceptionally rare and is expected to attract attention from enthusiasts and discerning collectors. Consigned by Stewart Banks

Lot details
Year: 1957
Make: Land Rover
Model: Series I (4x2)
Registration: 183 FUV
Chassis No: 1118-00962
Engine No: 111806
Mileage: 05,967

* A very rare two-wheel drive example
* The first 4x2 delivered to the British Army
* Offered to the market for the first time in over 40 years