Designed by Maurice Wilks in 1947, a Land-Rover rates highly on any list of the world's most significant vehicles, and the earlier - and therefore purer - the better.

By the 1957 model year, during which this example was made, weak points had been ironed out to bring the 4x4 to a specification that would last for decades.

A simple ladder frame chassis, steel bulkhead and rugged square-formed aluminium panels created a strong workhorse for light industrial, countryside and military use alike.

In 1954, 86-inch and 107-inch wheelbases were introduced, and by 1957, a 'high-speed' 2-litre diesel motor was added to the power options.

This diesel engine necessitated Solihull lengthening the front part of the chassis, bringing the Landie to its 88-inch and 109-inch wheelbases which then ran until the introduction of coil springing in the mid-1980s.

Manufactured in 1955, chassis number 57201147 is reputed to have been supplied new to the Royal Air Force.

Fitted with a 2.0-litre straight-f...