Not a Tractor, But Still a Classic: Our Very Special Range Rover Classic

After many years in our own collection, the time has come for us to part with something particularly special: our early 2-door Range Rover Classic.

This isn't simply an old Range Rover. It is an exceptionally early example, carrying a Suffix A chassis number, making it one of the very first production Range Rovers built.

From a Cornish Farm to Our Collection

We discovered this Range Rover many years ago, tucked away in a rather dilapidated state in a barn in Cornwall. It had spent its working life on a farm, doing exactly what these early Range Rovers were designed to do.

The vehicle was originally supplied new by Ranleigh Garage of St Austell, a Rover main dealer, making its Cornish history particularly fitting.

Although it had clearly lived a hard working life, we could see the potential underneath the years of use.

A Full Restoration

Around ten years ago, the Range Rover underwent a full nut-and-bolt rebuild.

The engine was completely rebuilt, while the chassis was stripped, shot-blasted, repaired where necessary and repainted. The axles and brakes were all overhauled, and extensive work was carried out on the body.

One of the more challenging parts of the restoration was sourcing the correct panels. A number of new-old-stock panels were painstakingly tracked down and used to complete the bodywork.

The interior was then professionally recovered using period-correct materials, bringing the cabin back to the standard this important early Range Rover deserved.

A Very Usable Classic

Once the restoration was complete, the Range Rover was used for a number of events and promotions before being placed into a heated warehouse.

We have recently recommissioned it, and it is now back on the road and ready for its next custodian.

Despite being restored around ten years ago, it has covered less than 500 miles since the rebuild. It has mellowed beautifully during that time and retains an incredible presence.

The iconic 3.5-litre Rover V8 runs beautifully and is coupled to a 4-speed manual gearbox with overdrive. On the road, it drives just as you would hope one of these great 1970s cars should.

For additional peace of mind, we have also had the Range Rover MOT tested, despite an MOT not being a legal requirement for a vehicle of this age.

A Piece of British Motoring History

The Range Rover has become one of Britain's most recognisable vehicles, and early 2-door examples are increasingly sought after.

With its exceptionally early Suffix A chassis, genuine working-life history, comprehensive restoration and incredibly low mileage since that restoration, this is a particularly significant example.

It is certainly not a tractor — but it shares many of the qualities we love about the classic machinery we normally deal with: honest history, engineering with character and a story that deserves to be preserved.

We welcome any inspection from genuinely interested buyers.

Based in Tavistock, Devon. Nationwide delivery can be arranged.