1980 Land Rover Lightweight Series III FFR |

Closed Auction- Unsold

1980 Land Rover Lightweight Series III FFR

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Mileage~82,023 on clock
TransmissionManual
Engine2.25L
LocationClevedon

AUCTION CLOSED

1980 Land Rover Lightweight Series III FFR

Introduction

Jacob Boodrie

Professional Consigner

Light enough to be carried by helicopter and fully equipped for any scenario, this Land Rover Series III is unlike any other.

In the early '60s, the British Army required a vehicle that could be carried by helicopter to replace the Austin Champ. At the time, Land Rover's lightest military vehicle was the Series IIA with an 88-inch wheelbase, which was too heavy. Thus, Land Rover began work on a lightweight version to fit the required specifications. They produced the Lightweight 1/2 ton; a 24-Volt FFR (Fitted for Radio) lightweight vehicle with an unladen weight of 1,510 kg. Although it was still overweight, the FFR could weigh in at 1,274 kg with easily removable body panels, making it light enough to be carried by the Westland Wessex, a medium-lift helicopter.

This example has been in the safe hands of David for the last few years and previously served in the British Army between 1980 and 1991. It has covered ~82,000 miles since 1980 and comes with detailed army history.

Presented in Army Green over black, it boasts a rare and highly original specification that gives this Series III Lightweight extra appeal.

This listing was written from information supplied by Jacob after meeting David 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

A mechanic by trade and having served in the TA for many years, David knew exactly what he was looking for when hunting for an ex-army Land Rover.

David has thoroughly enjoyed ownership of this Land Rover Series III Lightweight FFR over the years, he has kept the car in his dry barn, reserving it for army vehicle shows and the occasional trip out.

David had hoped to keep this example to enjoy for many years during his retirement; however, due to a new project and lack of use, he has decided to part ways with his beloved Series III.

David will be on hand to answer any questions about the car in the comments below.

David

Vehicle Owner

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Exterior
Interior
Mechanics
History
All Images

EXTERIOR VIDEO

Exterior

Equipped with three radio masts, Union Jack flags, and finished in Army Green, this 1/2 ton lightweight really does look the part.

Wheels and Tyres

The car comes equipped with its original wheels, with the spare mounted to the front. The Tyres are Michelin XCL on the Land Rover and Goodyear on the trailer.

The wheels are in good / used condition, while the Michelin/Goodyear tyres show a significant amount of tread remaining with just some slight cracking on the trailer tyres.

We have provided exterior photos for you to examine the condition for yourself.

Bodywork

The bodywork of this Series III appears to be in good condition, with all the panel gaps around the car aligning well.

During our visit, we didn't spot any obvious dings or dents.

We have provided more detailed observations through our high-resolution images and videos. We encourage you to review all the media files for a comprehensive view of the car's condition and to assess it for yourselves.

Paint

The "Army Green" finish of the paint exhibits even coverage and consistent colour across each panel. While viewing the car, we did notice the occasional very small minor scratch, however, these aren't that noticeable without close examination.

David has recently hand painted the car by himself.

Once again, we've provided high-resolution images and videos of the car for you to evaluate the condition of the bodywork for yourselves.

Glass and Trim

The glass on this Land Rover example appears to be in good condition. During our visit, we didn't notice any chips, cracks, or discoloration. The window seals also appear to be in good condition and align with the overall state of the car.

Additionally, the bumpers, door handles, and window surrounds are all in good condition.

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INTERIOR VIDEO

Interior

Fully equipped with the original Army 24v electrical systems and 'FFR' gear, this is a rather rare setup for a Series III.

Seats and Carpets

The classic grey seats with green headrest zipped tied to the radio frame have held their shape very well over the years.

The car is also fitted with black rubber mats in the front and back.

For a detailed view of the cabin, please take a look at the extensive media provided.

Dashboard

The dashboard is covered in metal and presents two large dials with classic styling to the driver.

The dashboard in this Land Rover shows wear you would expect for an ex-military vehicle, while no warning lights are displayed.

The odometer showed a reading of ~82,023 miles during our visit.

Steering Wheel / Gear Stick

An original black Land Rover wheel is fitted, and remains in good condition.

The black gear selector and other various levers have more wear present.

For a closer look, please check out the image gallery to see the detail.

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'ON THE ROAD' VIDEO

Mechanics

A 2.25-litre petrol, four-wheel drive and low range lets you tackle any road conditions you may come across.

Engine and Gearbox

During our visit, we started the car from cold, and it performed admirably around the farm; the engine pulled nicely, idled smoothly, and ran without any faults.

David reports that the car starts from cold without any issues and drives well, with its 4-speed gearbox providing smooth power to all the wheels.

Be sure to check out the mechanical video to see the car starting from cold, driving around, and for a closer inspection underneath the Land Rover and in the engine bay.

Suspension and Brakes

The suspension appears to be in good condition, providing a smooth journey around the farm.

During our short drive in the car, it exhibited handling characteristics typical of a Land Rover from this era and came to a stop smoothly without any issues.

The Drive

The Land Rover is a highly practically utilitarian vehicle, which David has thoroughly enjoyed during road trips around the the UK.

The car fired up without any issues on the first try. Around David's farm the truck felt tight and responsive, with ample power to tackle various driving conditions.

We didn’t notice any unusual noises coming from the engine or suspension either.

Electrics and Other

While we didn’t test all the electronics during our visit, David reports that to his knowledge, all of them are functional and operational.

The car retains its original 24 volt electrical system.

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History and Paperwork

Ready to cross any terrain and offering heaps of equipment, including pickaxes, shovels, and radios, this Land Rover is prepared for its next adventure.

The car is coming out of approximately 3 years of ownership with David. It boasts original British Army equipment and 24-volt electrical systems. Featuring a 2.25L petrol engine paired with a four-speed manual gearbox with overdrive and low range, it offers ~70 BHP. Additionally, the car comes with FFR radio equipment (which is often stripped) and an additional trailer.

Take a look at the history and paperwork media to see the previous MOT reports, servicing records, and parts this Land Rover Lightweight Series III FFR has received over its life.

We’ve done all our usual seller checks including photo ID, V5 and also actioned a HPi check on the vehicle.

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.

Service History

Date	Type	Mileage
29.11.2019	MOT	80,566km
17.11.2018	MOT	79,901km
25.11.2017	MOT	79,626km
26.11.2016	MOT	78,421km
28.10.2015	MOT	78,283km
22.11.2014	MOT	77,745km
23.11.2013	MOT	77,427km
10.11.2012	MOT	77,028km
19.11.2011	MOT	76,355km
30.10.2010	MOT	75,687km
28.11.2009	MOT	75,188km
18.10.2008	MOT	74,572km
20.10.2007	MOT	74,208km
21.10.2006	MOT	73,697km
05.11.2005	MOT	72,538km

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Key Details

ModelLightweight Series III FFR
TransmissionManual
Year of Manufacture1980
CC2,286
Mileage~80,023
HistoryPresent
ColourArmy Green
Interior ColourBlack
Interior TrimVinyl
Chassis #LBBAH1AA118397
Engine #1188397
RestoredYes
MOTNo. Exempt
MOT ExemptYes
Road Tax ExemptYes
HPi ClearYes - All Clear
Former Keepers6
Tyre TreadGood
Tyre BrandMichelin
LHD or RHDRHD
VisitedYes
Sale TypePrivate
Owned3 Years
Key FeatureArmy Equipped
Vehicle RegistrationXYC 228W
Driver’s SideRight
Fuel TypePetrol
Body TypeLight 4X4 Utility
Auction ID1962

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All Images

All Videos

Vehicle Location

Clevedon

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Auction Closed

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This car didn't meet its reserve price and may soon be available as a private sale - please contact us for more information.

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Seller : BDave

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2 Comments

pmw

7 months ago

could you confirm the condition of the chassis ? ie has it had repairs ? will it need repairs within the near future ? is the right side dumb iron present ? c/w number ? unit title ‘in service’

BDave

Seller

pmw

7 months ago

Chassis sound Will not require any repairs, no repairs as I can see has a good coat of under seal
Dumb iron in place.
143 Plant SQN (TA). as per history card

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Vehicle Location

Clevedon

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