1981 Land Rover Series III 109 Perkins Diesel

Highlights

• Desirable Land Rover Series III 109-inch, complete with double-skinned roof and Alpine windows
• Rare and well-regarded 3.0-litre Perkins diesel conversion
• New clutch recently fitted
• Features include a dog guard and two new three-seater bench seats
• MOT/road tax exempt

The Appeal

Among the many variants of classic Land Rover, the Series III is a comparatively uncommon sight. Distinguished by its double-skinned ‘Safari’ roof, Alpine windows, full headlining and spacious interior with rear bench seating, it offered a more practical and comfortable interpretation of the marque’s famously utilitarian formula.
The Series III is widely regarded as the definitive version of the original Land Rover, combining rugged simplicity and impressive all-terrain capability with a silhouette that remained unmistakably linked to the pioneering Series I. As the final evolution of the original Land Rover before the arrival of the Ninety and One Ten, it occupies an important place in the development of the modern 4x4.
While most examples were powered by Land Rover’s familiar 2.25-litre petrol or diesel engines, this vehicle benefits from a rare Perkins 3.0-litre diesel conversion. Known for its durability and strong low-speed torque, it promises greater flexibility and ease of driving, particularly with its recently replaced clutch.
Displaying the sort of honest, time-earned patina that many enthusiasts value, this Series III is ready to be enjoyed and used as intended. Whether tackling green lanes, attending Land Rover gatherings or serving as a practical classic for family adventures, it offers character, versatility and heritage in equal measure.

Key Information

• Mileage: 812 miles (indicated, unwarranted, total distance is reported to be 100,812 miles)
• Country of registration: United Kingdom
• Technical inspection status: MOT-exempt
• Technical specs: 3.0-litre ‘Perkins’ diesel, four-speed manual with overdrive
• Paperwork: British Motor Industry Heritage Trust certificate, V5C registration document, overdrive instructions, workshop manual, historic MOT certificates and tax discs, Perkins engine user manual, various invoices

The Detail

• Marine Blue paintwork complemented by a contrasting white roof and black upholstery
• Rare Perkins 3.0-litre diesel engine conversion
• Aluminium-framed sliding windows and desirable Safari roof
• Full-length roof rack with ladder
• Dog guard fitted
• Equipped with free-wheeling hubs and overdrive
• Seller describes the bulkhead as being in exceptional original condition
• Underside recently treated with WaxOyl
• New clutch fitted within the last few weeks
• Honest exterior condition displaying time-earned patina, including faded paintwork, stone chips and areas of corrosion
• Wear and patina evident throughout the cabin, dashboard and steering wheel
• Two recently fitted three-person rear bench seats
• New rubber matting covering interior panels
• Tyres would benefit from replacement due to their age and condition

BEFORE YOU BUY

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