1951 Land Rover Series I

In the end, who cares about their pug-like looks. They work and they can’t be killed

by Paul Duchene

Land Rover is one of the most charismatic names in the motoring world, with a rich history around the globe. Its beginnings were humble—it was designed as a utility vehicle and mobile power source for ranchers and farmers. There was a provision for front center and rear power take offs (PTOs) and an optional engine governor to keep the machinery speeds constant despite the load. Eight forward speeds and two reverse with selectable four-wheel drive completed the functional package. Steel was rationed, so aluminum was used for the body and reinforced with galvanized steel cappings. The heavy 14-gauge steel frame resembled railroad tracks and gave the vehicle immense strength and durability. Mechanical components came from the advanced Rover P3 sedans, including the 1,595-cc inlet-over-exhaust engine. The example offered here is a 1951 LHD export, model number 1613-2801, an example of the original specification produced from 1949–51. It is one of the earliest...