1971 Land Rover Series IIA 88 https://shiftgate.com/auction/1971-land-rover-series-iia-88/ Auction ends Friday, April 15 at 4:15pm Eastern History Bought new in Wales in 1971, this Land Rover 2A was originally finished in Marine Blue with a white safari hardtop, which, in subsequent years, was damaged and replaced with a canvas top. Used by the original owner to get around his farm and through the neighboring areas, it was parked in the 1990s for about 10 years before the owner and his son began restoring it. Removing the body from the frame, various repairs were made, but ultimately the Rover was sold in 2013 to a man named Paul. Paul would change the color from the original Marine Blue to Ascot Green using only rattle can spray paint and complete the restoration in 2014. The mechanicals were rebuilt, but because leaded gas was still available in the UK at the time, the valve seats were not hardened to accommodate unleaded fuels – as such an additive must be used at every fill up. In 2015, Paul moved to British Columbia and brought the Landy with him. Passing the inspections process, the current owner says the Rover is fun and weathertight, and all the gauges work, although he cannot attest to their accuracy – only that they to work. While not a concours Rover, it is one that could be driven on a daily basis if one so wanted. It is clean without being overdone and is something with which a rock chip wouldn’t mean the end of the world. It is something that could be enjoyed. Exterior This Land Rover 2A is finished in Ascot Green, changed from its original hue of Marine Blue, and features a new canvas top which replaced the original white safari top. The paint has a number of blemishes but is presentable and not anything that will cause worry in a parking lot. Interestingly, the Landy was painted by hand with spray cans filled with original code-correct paint, which was available in the UK at that time. Rolling on tan steel wheels with newer tires, the Rover is void of brightwork and jewelry, but rather features a host of galvanized and aluminum components ensuring a lengthy lifespan. The spare tire rests unmissably atop the hood, easily accessed when in need, however it has marred the paint on the hood, as can be seen in the gallery. The canvas top is colored in tan and complements the overall look stunningly. Twin sideview mirrors are affixed to the fender tops, and while a number of flaws are evidenced around the body, all things told, it appears to be a very honest 2A. Interior The interior of this Land Rover 2A is surprisingly clean, the upholstery and surfaces appearing in exceptionally nice condition. Again, not perfect, just like the rest of the Landy, but very, very presentable, useful, and enjoyable. The Ascot Green paint stretches from the exterior inward, covering various areas along with black and grey appointments. The switchgear and rubber flooring all appear to be in lovely condition, and while the three front seats are upholstered in black vinyl, the rear side-mounted benches are covered in a patterned black and white, which creates a grey tone. The gauges appear to be clear and legible, and, according to the pictures, they were also restored on their own. Mechanical Vintage Land Rovers have rarely been associated with speed, but they have long been akin to durability. This LR 2A is fitted with the 2.25L gas-powered inline 4-cylinder and a 4-speed manual transmission and, of course, 4-wheel drive. The mechanicals have all been rebuilt, including the head, which did not receive hardened valve seats to accommodate unleaded fuel. As such, an additive is required at every fill up. Despite the rebuilds, the transfer case, engine, and transmission are all said to leak fluids, but would it be a proper classic Land Rover if it didn’t deposit oils where it sat? That aside, the 2A is said to run, drive, and stop well, although the steering is a tad sloppy, thanks to the older worm and roller steering box. The seller says the vehicle will achieve 60 MPH, according to the speedometer. Details This 1971 Land Rover Series 2A brings with it a lot of charm and personality, allowing for fun and usefulness. The seller says it is weatherproof, runs well, and looks okay, considering it was literally painted with a rattle can filled with code-correct Ascot Green paint. The interior is clean and sharp, the details come together to create a fabulously original feeling LR. It leaks from the engine, transmission, and transfer case, and it needs lead substitute at every fill up – it’s nowhere near flawless, but if it were perfect, would it be as useful, charming, and fun? We think not. We appreciate this one for its perfect imperfections. 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