1955 Land Rover Series 1

This particular example - a 1955 Series 1 SWB nicknamed ‘Custard’ benefits from a number of upgrades and modifications, with the goal of creating a high-performance off-road vehicle in mind. First registered on 03 March 1955, this is a very early example of the Series 1, prior to the wheelbase being lengthened to the standard 88 inches in 1956.

The most notable upgrades are the box-flared wheel arches, which allow for wider wheels and tyres to be fitted. Since the Land Rover was only offered in Green for the early production years, it’s also safe to say the ‘custard’ yellow paintwork is not factory-original either, though it certainly suits the lines of this cheerful off-roader.

In addition to the bodywork modifications, the vehicle has also been fitted with an upgraded 3.5-litre Rover V8 engine, boosting the power output significantly, while retaining its links to the manufacturer. In many respects, this could be considered an ‘upgraded’ example of the Series 1.

The aforementioned custard yellow paintwork certainly stands out among a crowded car park, and suits the squared-off lines of the Series 1 very well indeed. As you’d expect from a purpose-built off-road vehicle, cleanliness and pristine paintwork aren’t particularly high up the priority list, and as such this ‘Landy’ wears its ‘battle scars' with pride.

That being said, it’s still perfectly presentable, and no doubt there are plenty of stories behind the patina that the vehicle has gathered. The Exmoor Trim canvas roof looks to be in great condition with no reported leaks, and no patching on the inside or outside of the material.

Despite numerous little ‘battle scars’ across the paintwork, there are no major dents, dings or signs of impact damage, with the exception of the offside wing. The front galvanised bumper is in good shape, as is the instantly-recognisable Series 1 front grille section.

Inside, this Series 1 is a long way from the way it was when it rolled off of the Solihull production line in 1955, however it still retains the air of utilitarianism and basic charm.

The standard seats have been upgraded for a pair of more modern offerings and fitted with a set of LUKES harnesses, while the factory gauge cluster has been replaced with a more modern instrument binnacle, likely due to the upgraded engine.

The floors appear to be solid but are starting to show some minor signs of oxidisation, in particular around the rear seat mounting points. The bed / rear compartment is in presentable condition, though the interior would benefit from a thorough refurbishment throughout.

One of the benefits of an off-roader is access to the chassis, meaning that our photographer could get plenty of photographs showing the condition of “Custard’s” underside. While there is the usual surface bloom that is commensurate with a vehicle of this age and milage, there doesn’t appear to be anything to be concerned with, and the last MOT inspection in 2019 (the vehicle is exempt due to age) didn’t flag any concerns.

The engine bay would benefit from a full degreasing and tidying up, while the paint on the inside of the bonnet is starting to peel and crack, likely due to the heat of the V8 engine under load. Everything works as it should, though there are signs of fluid leaks underneath the engine, though again, this was not flagged in the last MOT.

The car starts and idles happily enough, with the V8 providing a much more aggressive and ‘meaty’ soundtrack than the stock 2.0-litre Land Rover engine could ever dream of producing.

The vehicle does not have much in the way of history unfortunately, being supplied with just the V5 certificate which shows 12 former keepers.

The Land Rover is a car that enjoys an enduring appeal across all walks of life, with the early ‘Series’ models in particular enjoying cult appeal. This particular example may have been extensively modified by the previous owners, but it still retains the instantly recognisable Land Rover Series 1 lines, and the ethos of go-anywhere, do-anything utilitarian motoring.

Clearly, this is a special example of the Series 1. One of the previous owners fell in love with the car, sold it, regretted it and then bought it back a number of years later!

Estimated in the region of £9,500 - £13,000, ‘Custard’ would make a fantastic off-road adventure vehicle exactly as it sits, or could form the basis for a restoration back to factory standard - whichever you see fit.

Inspection is always encouraged (within Govt. guidelines of course), and this particular car is located with us at The Market HQ near Abingdon; to arrange an appointment please use the Contact Seller button at the top of the listing. Feel free to ask any questions or make observations in the comments section below, or try our ‘Frequently Asked Questions’.