1981 Land Rover Series III – Fully Restored, Matching Numbers, Historic Status

A truly special example of a 1981 Land Rover Series III, restored to a very high standard with an exceptional level of paperwork and invoices.

This is not just a tidy classic Land Rover. It has had the right money spent in all the right places, with over £21,000 spent on a full restoration in 2025 by a Land Rover specialist in Scotland. The restoration was not simply cosmetic; the paperwork shows a proper in-depth rebuild, making this a very rare and desirable example.

Key Highlights
1981 Land Rover Series III
Full restoration completed in 2025
Over £21,000 spent, with invoices present
Matching numbers vehicle, confirmed through DVLA
New galvanised chassis
Rebuilt engine
Reconditioned gearbox
New wiring loom
New lights throughout
New brakes
New springs
New wheels and tyres
New exhaust
New fuel tank
New radiator and cooling parts
New ignition and fuel parts
Steering and suspension work completed
Many new seals, gaskets, nuts, bolts and hardware throughout
Historic vehicle status
Road tax exempt
ULEZ exempt
Eligible for classic car insurance
Freshly serviced by Global Classic Car Group
Starts first time and is ready to enjoy
Exterior, Interior & Hood Setup

The interior and soft top setup have also been finished to a fantastic standard. It features Exmoor Trim Oxford Tan deluxe front seats, matching Sand Canvas door cards, rear troop-style bench seats, a Sand Canvas soft top hood, heavy-duty hood frame, custom hood sticks, gutters and door surrounds, dual-action rear door hinges, side steps, powder-coated window frames with new glass, and a new steering wheel.

One of the most appealing features is the removable canvas soft top. In the summer, the hood can come off to give the Land Rover that proper open classic look. With the rear troop-style seats in the back, it has bags of character and feels like a classic you can genuinely use and enjoy, rather than one to simply store away.

Matching Numbers & Collectability

This is also a matching numbers vehicle, confirmed through DVLA. That makes it considerably more desirable, especially as many Series Land Rovers have been altered, rebuilt or changed around over the years.

Finding a Series III with this level of restoration, originality and paperwork is becoming increasingly difficult. Its matching numbers status also opens it up to a stronger collector market, including overseas interest, where originality is especially valued.

Mechanical Condition

All the important areas on a Series Land Rover have been properly addressed. It has had the chassis, engine, gearbox, wiring, brakes, suspension, cooling system, fuel system and many supporting components restored or renewed.

Global Classic Car Group also carried out a fresh service on the vehicle recently, and it starts first time. It is ready to be used, enjoyed and shown immediately.

Summary

This is a rare opportunity to own a beautifully restored, matching numbers Land Rover Series III with historic status, strong paperwork and a huge amount of money spent.

It combines classic Land Rover character with the reassurance of a properly documented restoration. A very usable, charming and collectible example.

Viewing is highly recommended.

Seller

Global Classic Car Group
Family-run classic car specialists based in Muswell Hill, North London
5-star rated business