Lot Ended
Description
Highly sought-after and US exportable 'Pre-Defender' 110; only 4
former keepers and showing a believed to be genuine 45,343 miles backed up by
MOT records; fully original interior in simply excellent condition; recent new
tyres all round and MOT until March 2027; driven to the sale without issue;
tax and MOT exempt next year; simply lovely
The
Land Rover 110 represents a hugely important chapter in the history of one of
Britain’s most iconic automotive marques. Introduced in 1983 as the larger
successor to the Series III, the 110 marked the beginning of the model line that
would ultimately become synonymous with the ‘Defender’ name. Although the
Defender name would not be adopted until 1990, the 110 laid the foundations for
the legendary model that followed, combining Land Rover’s traditional ruggedness
and exceptional off-road ability with the greater refinement and sophistication
offered by a coil-sprung chassis.
Today, these
early 110s are particularly significant, representing the formative years of
what would become one of the world’s most recognisable and enduring 4x4s.
Retaining the unmistakable character and purposeful simplicity of the original
Land Rover, they offer an intriguing opportunity to own an important piece of
the Defender story.
Manufactured in January 1987,
this smart example has enjoyed just four owners from new, including the current
vendor, and displays 45,343 miles, which is believed to be correct and is
supported by the available MOT history. As always, prospective bidders should
satisfy themselves as to the mileage and overall condition, but there is no
denying that this 110 presents in very smart order indeed, retaining all the
purposeful character and charm of these early, pre-Defender Land
Rovers.
Finished in what appears to be a
period-correct shade of green, complemented by iconic contrasting white steel
wheels and matching white roof, this Landy appears to have enjoyed a somewhat
more comfortable life than many of its contemporaries. The vendor advises that
it has never been fitted with a tow bar and has not been subjected to any
serious off-road use, suggesting it has spent much of its life away from the
hard-working duties for which these vehicles were originally
designed.
Documentation shows that the car was
delivered new to the Honourable Anthony Thomas Lewis, who retained it for well
over 16 years. During this period, it is believed to have been based at The
Skreen, his historic country house near Erwood in Wales, and was likely used on
and around the estate. This may well help to explain the remarkably low 45,343
miles displayed today, particularly given the vendor’s assertion that it has
never been fitted with a tow bar or subjected to any serious off-road
use.
The interior presents impressive condition,
retaining its original carpets, upholstery and headlining – a particularly rare
find given the original working intention of the model. Our vendor has only ever
used the seats with a set of protective covers, which are included in the sale.
The Landy has also benefited from a full set of tyres a few years ago, together
with a brand-new carburettor and work to the steering system, among other
maintenance and improvement works.
Accompanied by
its Heritage Certificate, original sales brochure and workshop manual, this 110
presents a particularly appealing package for the keen enthusiast or serious
Land Rover collector. Driven to the sale and further supported by a current MOT
valid until March 2027, together with a substantial collection of invoices from
Land Rover specialists as photographed, it appears this example has been very
well cared for throughout its life.
With its low
displayed mileage, fascinating provenance, original character and smart
presentation, this is an increasingly collectable early 110 and a particularly
appealing example of the model that would ultimately become the legendary
Defender. One that should not be overlooked.
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