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.

The 88in chassis was offered from mid-1956 model year.

Simple, Spartan and beautiful in its own way, this late Series I possesses all the characteristics that make early Land-Rovers so desirable.

It was originally built for military service, it is believed with the R.A.F., but was demobilised in 1963 and issued with its present London registration.

The previous owner purchased it in 1993 as a dismantled project and set about putting it back on the road over a period of several years.

Having ...