Lot Ended
Description
A nice original lightweight remaining on its
original 12-volt system; showing only 86,175
miles
Developed for the British military as an
air-portable version of the Series IIA
and later the Series III, the Lightweight (or Airportable) was designed to be
robust, simple and easily stripped for transport by helicopter or aircraft.
Despite the name, it wasn’t dramatically lighter than the
civilian model, but its narrower track, removable panels and rugged construction
made it a favorite with the armed forces. Today, surviving examples with
traceable service histories are increasingly sought after, especially those
retaining their original character and military fittings.
This 1979 example ticks all the
right boxes. Remaining on its original 12-volt system, it still carries its
original engine, showing only 86,175 miles and now breathing
through a new carburettor. It has benefited from a new rear quarter chassis
around four years ago – a sensible and expensive piece of
preventative maintenance on any Series Land Rover.
The interior presents in honest
condition, complete with the original rear floor strips and the correct split
tailgate. Aluminium door tops with sliding windows are another pleasing detail,
as is the working military front hitch and comes with its original wheels and
tyres, adding to the authenticity.
The vehicle was driven to the sale and is
starting sweetly for photographs and video. A new rear exhaust section has been
fitted, with the remainder of a new system included for the next owner to
install at their leisure. The offside fuel tank remains in place, while the
nearside has been sensibly converted into a useful storage
compartment.
Accompanying paperwork includes 10 old MOT
certificates and the current V5C, along with its military service details: in
service from 1979 until 29/10/1997, with an RIU date of 09 January 1984, and
recorded use with 40 Signal Regiment – a nice piece of provenance for
enthusiasts of military Land Rovers.
A straight, usable Lightweight with its
originality intact and a solid chassis, offered here in running order and with a
pleasing amount of history behind it. These are becoming harder to find in such
honest condition.
Contact: david.tassell@brightwells.com