1955 Land Rover Series 1 |

Sold

1955 Land Rover Series 1

Sold Price

£18,104

Mileage~36,043 on clock
TransmissionManual
Engine2.0-litre
LocationRaunds, Northamptonshire

SOLD

1955 Land Rover Series 1

I WANT ONE

Introduction

Ashley Dawson

Professional Consigner

Few vehicles carry the charm and unmistakable character of an early Land Rover Series 1, and this 1955 example is no exception.

Imported from Australia in 2017 before undergoing a comprehensive restoration, this beautifully presented Series 1 has been carefully rebuilt by its current owner, with a strong focus on originality, usability and preserving the vehicle’s authentic character.

Coming to market from just over 8.5 with our vendor, this Series 1 has a freshly rebuilt engine, extensive restoration work and a wonderfully honest appearance throughout, it represents a fantastic opportunity to own one of Britain’s most iconic off-roaders.

This listing was written from information supplied by Ashley after meeting Bill the owner, and having visited and photographed the vehicle.

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Secure Auctions

We verify all our sellers and buyers to keep our community safe whilst also providing the highest levels of website security.

Full Transparency

8 out of 10 people that buy cars via our service don’t feel the need to visit due to the transparency and thoroughness of our listings.

Vehicle Delivery

We're there every step of your buying journey and will even arrange pick-up and delivery of your new vehicle.

Meet the owner

I wanted to save it properly while keeping as much of the original Land Rover as possible.

Bill purchased the Series 1 shortly after it arrived in the UK from Australia in a very poor state and has since undertaken a thorough restoration to bring it back to life. The work focused on preserving originality wherever possible while ensuring the Land Rover remained reliable and usable for modern enjoyment.

Now completed and enjoyed sparingly, the Land Rover is being offered for sale simply due to lack of use and limited storage space.

Bill will be happy to answer any questions in the comments section below.

Bill

Vehicle Owner

Bill saved £3,240* when they
sold their Land Rover with us.

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EXTERIOR VIDEO

Exterior

Finished in 'Pastoral Green' (L005) with a traditional canvas roof, the Land Rover presents exactly as a well-restored Series 1 should; honest, usable and full of character.

Wheels and Tyres

The original-style steel wheels are finished in matching green and wrapped in chunky period-style tyres that suit the Land Rover perfectly both visually and practically.

The vehicle also comes with a matching spare which can be mounted to the bonnet or behind the seats with the correct fixings.

Please take time to review the photos and videos for a detailed view of the exterior, wheels, and tyres so you can make your own assessment of their condition. Tyres are a key safety item, and you should consider replacing any that are cracked, perished, unevenly worn, or over 10 years old.

Bodywork

The bodywork was restored with originality in mind, though the rear tub required complete custom fabrication to original specification due to the condition of the original unit.

Panel fit remains pleasingly authentic to an early Land Rover, while the galvanised trim and hardware complement the vehicle perfectly.

We've highlighted in more detail our observations through our hi-resolution images and videos, so please take time to look through all the media files for a detailed view at what’s on offer, and for you to assess the condition of the car for yourselves.

Paint

The paintwork presents well throughout with a classic finish that suits the vehicle’s utilitarian roots.

It carries a subtle charm rather than appearing over-restored, helping retain the authentic feel of the Series 1.

The images are taken from a few different angles to show off the car as you would see it if you were standing there for yourselves. So please take the time to fully assess these hi-resolution images and videos of the car, for you to make up your own minds about the condition of the paint.

Glass and Trim

All of the windows remain original and display only light age-related marks consistent with the vehicle’s age.

The exterior trim, lights and fittings all present well, while the front indicators have been neatly incorporated into the side lights for improved road usability.

Please view the photos and video below to review the condition of the glass and trim for yourself.

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INTERIOR VIDEO

Interior

Inside, the cabin retains the wonderfully simple and functional layout that defines the early Series 1 experience.

Seats and Carpets

The green bench seats present well and complement the exterior colour scheme nicely.

The interior remains pleasingly minimal, with the painted metal surfaces and exposed fittings giving the Land Rover its unmistakable utilitarian charm.

Please take a look at the photos and video below to decide on the condition of the seats and carpets for yourself.

Dashboard

The dashboard layout remains wonderfully original in appearance, featuring the classic centrally mounted gauges and simple switchgear associated with early Land Rovers.

The controls and fittings all retain an authentic mechanical feel. Various fixings throughout the vehicle were replaced with stainless steel hardware during restoration to improve longevity while maintaining the vehicle’s original appearance.

Bill assured us at the time of visit, everything is in full working order.

Steering Wheel / Gear Stick

The large original-style steering wheel remains a real focal point of the cabin and delivers exactly the kind of mechanical, unassisted feel you would expect from an early Series 1.

The exposed gear levers and transfer controls all present well and retain a satisfyingly utilitarian appearance, perfectly matching the Land Rover’s rugged character.

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'ON THE ROAD' VIDEO

Mechanics

Significant mechanical work has been completed during Bill’s ownership, with reliability and preservation being key priorities throughout the restoration.

Engine and Gearbox

The 2.0-litre petrol engine was rebuilt in 2024 and has covered fewer than 500 miles since completion. Bill reports that the engine now runs exceptionally well and, notably for an early Land Rover, it does not leak oil.

To improve reliability without compromising the vehicle’s character, an electronic ignition system has also been fitted.

Suspension and Brakes

The suspension and braking systems are reported to be in good working order, with the Land Rover operating exactly as intended.

The vehicle retains the honest mechanical feel expected of an early Series 1 while remaining dependable and usable on the road.

The chassis was shot blasted and repainted during restoration to ensure long-term protection and preservation. The underside presents very well and reflects the level of care invested into the vehicle.

The Drive

Bill reports that the Land Rover drives exactly as it should, with all systems functioning correctly.

For a 1955 Series 1, it is said to be remarkably usable and dependable.

Electrics and Other

Bill assured us everything is to work correctly, including the lighting and instrumentation, apart from the wipers, he told us they were working the last time he tried them but are probably in need of another refurbishment. It’s not difficult. But they are not great at the best of times! he's said he's never actually used them in anger as it’s never been out in the rain. They are original but didn’t come with the vehicle as it didn’t have any when it arrived. They were on optional extra in Australia.

The discreetly integrated indicators improve usability while maintaining the Land Rover’s classic appearance.

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History and Paperwork

This Series 1 benefits from an interesting history and a restoration story that reflects genuine enthusiasm and long-term ownership care.

Imported from Australia in 2017, the Land Rover arrived in the UK requiring substantial restoration work. Bill subsequently undertook a sympathetic rebuild with the aim of preserving as much originality as possible while making the vehicle dependable and enjoyable to use.

Now completed and lightly used since its engine rebuild, the Land Rover is being offered for sale simply due to lack of use and limited storage space.

Photos of the restoration are available to view.

We’ve done all our usual seller checks including photo ID, V5 and also actioned a history check on the vehicle - this is a professional check operated by HPI that will highlight if the car has been previously stolen, recorded as being in an accident, or have any outstanding finance - note, this does not include a mileage history check.

We've summarised our own view on the car based on information gained from the seller in the listing above, however, and as you can see, we go to great lengths to photograph and video the car in hi-resolution detail - this has been done for you to make your own assessment from the comfort of your sofa. So please sit back, have a cuppa and take your time to review everything on this listing in order to make your own assessment on the vehicle's condition. Viewings are also welcomed with all our listings, so please get in touch with us to arrange a suitable time - we just need to speak to you first and receive a valid photo ID before confirming.

If there's anything you're unsure about, no matter how small, then please first ask the owner in the comments area below before placing your bid/s, as bids can't be retracted and form a binding contract if you win the car - just like a traditional auction house.

Key Details

Year1955
ModelSeries 1
TransmissionManual
Reg. Date12/07/1955
CC1997
Mileage~36,043 On clock
ColourPastoral Green (L005)
Interior ColourGreen
Interior TrimLeather
Chassis #57661997
Engine #111712565
RestoredYes
Engine Rebuild2024 Less than 500 Miles ago
MOT ExemptYes
Road Tax ExemptYes
HPi ClearYes - All Clear
Former Keepers1
LHD or RHDRHD
VisitedYes
Sale TypePrivate
Key FeatureSympathetic Restoration
Vehicle Registration393 UYW
Driver’s SideRight
Body TypeCanvas Top
Auction ID3641

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All Images

All Videos

Vehicle Sold

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Ask Questions

Seller : BillSeries1 Sale Date 28.05.2026

Post a comment or ask the owner a question about the car.

11 Comments

ChaseClassics

14 days ago

Hi Bill, love the S1 and interested in bidding. I had a quick question prior, in respect of the paint. In picture 20, it looks streaky, is it just residue from a cleaning product? Certain cleaners/snow foams can damage the pigment in the paint, especially if single stage.

BillSeries1

Seller

ChaseClassics

14 days ago

Hi
Good spot! I panicked a bit and had to have a look at what’s happening. I took a cloth and wiped it off. I think it was a bit soap I missed when I washed it. Streaks from the soap and wax product I think.
It was painted with two pack and had a good coat of clear coat varnish on top. I haven’t polished it for a while. So it’s probably due a little G3 compound to really make it pop.

ChaseClassics

BillSeries1

14 days ago

That’s great thanks Bill.

BillSeries1

Seller

21 days ago

I tried to find out about its history in Aus but didn’t really follow up on it. I have the Australian number plates and will pass them on they do have the state name on it.
The gearbox is in good condition. All work fine and were checked when the engine was reconditioned. I do have a second gearbox which I would sell for 250. It needs to be reconditioned but essentially it’s a good box. It would easily do 200 miles. I regularly drove it out to Norfolk for series 1 rallies and never had a problem. It will do 50mph without struggling because of the electronic ignition. It would take some time and I would be reluctant to use a motorway but I would not be worried about going that far. I would probably change the oil before such a trip though.

Brunoxx1

22 days ago

Hi Bill
Is there any history from Aus known? which state from? use etc, just for story behind vehicle.
Everything described in videos but must of missed the gears, hi/low transfer etc are these all good no issues?
Can it do a 200mile trip, slowly of coarse? TIA

BillSeries1

Seller

Brunoxx1

21 days ago

I tried to find out about its history in Aus but didn’t really follow up on it. I have the Australian number plates and will pass them on they do have the state name on it. The gearbox is in good condition. All work fine and were checked when the engine was reconditioned. I do have a second gearbox which I would sell for 250. It needs to be reconditioned but essentially it’s a good box. It would easily do 200 miles. I regularly drove it out to Norfolk for series 1 rallies and never had a problem. It will do 50mph without struggling because of the electronic ignition. It would take some time and I would be reluctant to use a motorway but I would not be worried about going that far. I would probably change the oil before such a trip though.

BillSeries1

Seller

Brunoxx1

21 days ago

CXS 533 New South Wales

DannySLO

28 days ago

Extra Tire for bonnet? Hand crank? Total height to top of canvas (garage concern)

BillSeries1

Seller

DannySLO

28 days ago

Yes there is a spare which is exactly the same as the tyres on the vehicle.
There is a hand crank. Forget about that. Just have to find it in the garage.
I will measure the height and let you know. But it does fit in mine ok and it’s a standard garage.

Adam Purrier - Trade Classics

Admin

DannySLO

27 days ago

Hi Danny, just to say we’ve been replying to your emails you’ve been sending us but don’t think they are getting through to you.

BillSeries1

Seller

DannySLO

27 days ago

Hi Danny.
The highest point is 193 CM. Which is right at the back of the canvas top.
Bill

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Vehicle Location

Raunds, Northamptonshire

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