A rural thoroughbred back from city lights
Series II: 88" Pick-up (1961)
The Series II was launched by Land Rover in 1961. This exhibit is a good (and very early) example of the regular Series II specification. The pick up is protected by a canvass tilt and the cabin remains basic in the extreme. By now the model had lengthened by a further 2" to 88". This extra space was taken up in the front of the vehicle to accommodate the larger 2.25Ltr diesel and petrol engines that were introduced with this model.
By the time the Sixties had arrived, Land Rover were keen to make their vehicles look a little less utilitarian. Note the more rounded waistline running the length of the vehicle. This not only provided slightly more cabin space and an improved axle width, but it materially enhanced the looks of the Land Rover. In fact this design feature survived unchanged right through to the very last Defender produced in 2016. The head lights had not yet made their way to the front wings, but at least you will see the indicators and side light lenses where you would expect to find them. The side skirts ran lower to the ground to conceal some of the 'gubbins' below deck, which also materially improved the wholeness of the vehicle's appearance. Bronze Green was still the order of the day. But things were none the worse for that.
Thus far one would imagine that this car is perfectly set up for a life in muck and mud. However, and surprisingly, the provenance file of 'CXA' places this car firmly in residence in Kensington, West London during the early Sixties. Who knows, perhaps this was the very first 'Chelsea tractor'! Some would argue this as a most unlikely town car, but there is little doubt that it would have been a head-turner in its day. Obviously its owner was a person of considerable style, exhibiting the free-spirit for which the Sixties are famed.
'CXA' ended up eventually at MJ Fews, the Gloucester Land Rover main dealership, who saw it come and go until (just like we would all wish to) she took her retirement in her 53rd year. 'CXA' was purchased in 2014 by an enthusiast who, thankfully, decided to merely upkeep 'CXA' rather than embark on a full blown face-lift. As it joined us in 2020, this car did and will continue to exhibit the genuine impact of her years. A far more appropriate and appealing appearance to the eye for a sedate lady who enjoyed the city life during her youth before moving to the country in her middle years. It is not for us to overwrite the hallmarks of age. Let's hope we all look in that good a shape at 60!
Similar vehicles in our collection - We typically show this exhibit between one of our Series I and Series III's to aid your appreciation of the early years evolution of the brand.
As with all our exhibits, this 'CXA' is kept in fine running condition. She is therefore available as part of our corporate hire fleet and is not at all camera-shy for those who would welcome a guest appearance by a sedate old Lady. Who knows, you might even learn what she got up to as a youngster on the streets of the West End throughout the swinging sixties!
Part of:
Series II/IIA
Working Rovers
The Collection
Vehicle Owner: Land Rover Heritage Collection
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