1966 Land Rover Series IIa

Engine - 2.25L Petrol
Transmission - 4 Speed Manual
Suspension - Stock
Tyres - Continental Cross Contact 235/85R 16C
Equipped For - Urban Adventure

What's the history of this Series IIa?

 The series was purchased from the original owner in Gympie, Queensland, who bought it new from Annand & Thompson in 1966.  The family had used it as a work/farm vehicle for the majority of its life and had passed it down through the family with each generation. On pick up we were told stories of teaching all his children to drive in the little series around the paddock.

How much work did it need?

 The car was in remarkably original condition when we brought it back to Finny Automotive HQ. We decided to replace only what was necessary and preserve as much originality as possible. Mechanically we went through service items, brakes, and suspension, replacing anything that had perished over the years of farm use. These cars are known to rust in the footwells, which we fixed and painted with a fresh coat of colour matched paint.

The style of the build paid homage to Steve McQueen's personal series 2 88', with the philosophy that it could have been used as a period-correct adventure vehicle. We installed all new Lucas glass lighting and spotlights to maintain the classic feel of the vehicle. At its core we wanted our series to be inviting and to put a smile on its future owners face every time they jump in, we tracked down some Porsche Plaid fabric in Germany and had the seats reupholstered.

What created your love of Land Rovers?

 My first word was ‘car’ and it’s been downhill ever since. My love of Land Rovers started when I bought my first Land Rover in 2015, a 1967 Series 2a LWB named ‘Paddington’, which I still own today. I was fresh out of high school and was looking for my first classic car that was usable and I could learn to turn a spanner on. As an Industrial Designer, I love the utilitarian nature of the series Land Rovers. There is nothing unscary in a series, everything on the vehicle has a clear purpose and yet they ooze charm.

Can you tell us about Finny Automotive and what you do there?

 I started Finny Automotive with the philosophy of building usable and approachable classic cars. We celebrate patina. Each dent, varying shade of paint and period accessory tells a story that we strive to preserve. We share a HQ with Burton Trading Company, who source and sell enthusiast vehicles. We both want to create a welcoming hub for like-minded people to share their passion for  classic cars.

 Our Series 2a is ready to find its new home, please contact @burtontradingco for any sales inquires. 

Photos by Vin Pixel