The Car
It is with great enthusiasm that we present this beautifully restored 1972 Land Rover Series III LHD Petrol to the market. The restoration process, which took over a year to complete between 2021 and 2022, was nothing short of meticulous. The result is a full frame-off rebuild, restoring this iconic vehicle to an exceptional level of originality and function.
This Land Rover was completely disassembled and then reassembled, with approximately 95% of its components either replaced or restored to original specifications. Hundreds of new parts were installed, including brand-new doors, windows, wheels, brakes, hoses, wiring, hinges, locks, and bolts. The frame has been treated with a Waxoyl coating and painted with black anti-corrosion paint, ensuring long-lasting protection and preserving its authentic appearance. A new Exmoor Soft Top enhances the vehicle’s aesthetics, while new Michelin XCA Plus 750/ R16 wheels add to its commanding road presence.
The engine, which underwent a complete rebuild with numerous new components, runs flawlessly. It is complemented by a new radiator, heater, battery, and generator. Additionally, the gearbox has been fully rebuilt, along with the transmission. All suspension components are entirely new, contributing to a well-planted and smooth driving experience. Having only covered 2, 000 km since the restoration, the vehicle’s total mileage now stands at just 61, 500 km.
Inside, the interior retains its classic Land Rover charm, both clean and utilitarian. The front features comfortable deluxe black vinyl seats for three passengers, while the rear houses two fold-down seats finished in the later 90/ 110 fabric known as Moorland Grey. All seating is in impeccable condition, showing no signs of wear or damage. Furthermore, all systems—including the two-level heater, lights, and dashboard instruments—function as they should.
This rare 2¼ petrol 88 Series III, with its smooth-running engine, is ready to be enjoyed immediately. It has just undergone a fresh oil and filter change, including the gearbox and transfer case, in July 2024. With over 1, 000 hours invested in this restoration, this is a unique opportunity to own an exceptional Land Rover, restored to the highest standard.
History Of The Land Rover
The Land Rover Series range, originating in 1948, evolved into the Defender model, officially launched in 1983 and concluding its continuous run in January 2016 after an impressive 67-year history. Initially inspired by the US-built Willys Jeep post-World War II, Land Rovers gained widespread longevity, with a claim in 1992 that 70% of all vehicles ever manufactured were still in use. Throughout its production span, the Defender and Series ranges maintained a distinctive international presence, being exported, manufactured, and produced under license by various companies in diverse markets. These markets included Australia, Southern and North Africa, Turkey, Brazil, Pakistan, Malaysia, and more.
In a strategic move to tap into the US market, Land Rover entered the North American scene in 1993, following the successful introduction of the Range Rover brand in 1987. This move aimed to provide a sophisticated alternative to the Jeep Wrangler, catering to adventurous buyers. However, economic challenges led Land Rover to withdraw from the North American and Canadian markets in 1997. The Defenders offered in the US during the 90s underwent significant modifications compared to those destined for Land Rover’s other export markets. Subsequent amendments to federal safety regulations ultimately compelled Land Rover to entirely remove the Defender from the US market in 1997. Consequently, the company redirected its focus towards the production of upmarket Discovery and Range Rover models, built from the ground up.
