1952 Land Rover Series 1. 80"

Manufactured in November 1952 and registered on the 6th December 1952 ( 1953 model year ), MRU 54 is a Series 1, 80" Land Rover with its original two-litre, Siamese-bore, overhead inlet side valve engine and according to its chassis number (36101879) it's an early Basic Home Vehicle. It has an aluminium bulkhead which was fitted to a number of early 80 inchers for a short period as the large steel press used to form the common bulkhead broke down and Land Rover had no option but to hand form these essential parts of the structure from aluminium.

It appears from the original 'buff log book' that MRU 54 spent most of its life moving around Southern England before being purchased by our vendor, Julian Hussey, with the intention of restoring it to its former glory. He is a lifelong Land Rover enthusiast and is respected for his attention to detail, and MRU 54 is now a testament to his enthusiasm and ability.

Julian has undertaken a full ground-up nut and bolt restoration to a standard approaching 'Concours'and has been fortunate to have the support of Tom Pickford one of the leading authorities on early Land Rovers. Tom's specialised knowledge has helped Julian achieve a high level of correct detail throughout the rebuild. Most components, including nuts and bolts, have been restored if found to be serviceable and if not, the correct parts were either sourced from dedicated suppliers including Dunsfold DLR, Tom Pickford and Series One Club members, or remanufactured by hand to original specifications.

The original engine has naturally been rebuilt, and the gearbox, transfer box and axles overhauled. It has a new fuel tank made by hand to original specifications, new brake lines and overhauled original cast iron wheel cylinders.The additional work required to produce the result you see here today is too extensive to list, but the vendor will happily supply full details.

Finally, this amazing 'Landie' was painted in the correct Land Rover Bronze Green with a delicate matt sheen to maintain a look suited to the vehicles age and to finish the restoration it sports new green square back seats and a classic khaki hood supplied by Tom Pickford. MRU 54 is accompanied by an album of pictures taken during its rebuild along with a file of old MoTs and receipts etc. collected throughout its life.

Early Land Rovers have returned to fashion now and a good number have been or are being restored, however I think you might struggle to find one as good as this.