1967 Series IIa 88-inch V8 prototype

Chassis number: 8884/2158

Registration number: BXC 975G

Engine type: 3.5 V8 Petrol

Gearbox type: 4 Speed.

Vehicle spec:
This is the only one of three Series IIa vehicles converted to V8 power in 1966-67 to have survived. It was quickly realised that the standard transmission was not up to the demands of the 3.5 V8, and the three vehicles found a new role as mileage test vehicles on the project that led to the Range Rover. This vehicle was then allocated to surface friction testing on the Gaydon test track. At this time it was fitted with a station wagon hard top and was painted Masai Red with Sahara Dust roof, which was apparently a paint scheme trial.

It still retains the Series 11a crash gearbox but uses high-ratio differentials. It has larger brakes all round and radial tyres for high-speed safety. The registration number is later than the vehicle build date as it ran around on trade plates prior to registration. 

Since acquiring it, we have completed a ground-up restoration and decided to finish the vehicle as it was in the late 1960s. The light blue was never a Land Rover production colour but the three test vehicles were all paint assessment cars as well. The other two cars were broken up, making this the sole survivor of the vehicles that played an important role in the development of the Range Rover.