When Land Rover revealed the Series I for the first time at the Amsterdam Motor Show in 1948 it brought three prototypes to show. One of those great, great, great grandfathers of the Defender went missing somewhere along the way, until it was rediscovered in 2016 just a few blocks away from the original Defender factor in Solihul, UK. Not that it was just sitting there the whole time. It actually was sold and used for it’s intended purpose until some time in the 60s when it was parked in a field in Wales where it was used as a “static power source” for over 20 years until the motor seized. Then it was sold in 1988 to someone who intended on restoring it, but that never happened, however now it’s time has come.
After verifying the authenticity of the find, the Land Rover Classic Division will begin a “sympathetic” restoration of the most classic Land Rover, keeping as much as possible of the patina of it’s finish as possible, but restoring it’s mechanical functionality.
How was it able to remain in such good condition after almost 60 years left to the elements? A few of the unique features of the prototype that never made it into production helped, including thicker aluminum body panels and a galvanized frame. We’re looking forward to see the finished work!
If you would like to own a Land Rover Series, check out our restored Series III for sale.