1980 LAND ROVER DEFENDER SERIES III

1980 LAND ROVER

DEFENDER SERIES III

Originally designed after World War II to provide British farmers with a useful all-around utility vehicle, the iconic Land Rover carried on in production until 2015 with several significant redesigns. The basis of the Land Rover’s appeal is its simple and rugged styling and unmatched off-road capability. It features an aluminum alloy body on a very strong steel ladder chassis. Compared to Jeep models of the same vintage, the Land Rover is lighter and more agile. Very rare in America, the Defender is a coveted and well liked, unique true 4x4.

The Series III model is arguably the last and best of the original breed, as the follow up 90 and 110 models introduced in 1983 were significantly larger, more complicated and had many engineering changes. The “Defender” name did not officially appear until the 1983 introductions, but has been popularly applied to the original series I, II and III.

This 1980 Land Rover Series III features the ultra maneuverable 88” short wheelbase chassis with rugged leaf springs front and rear. Overall length is a compact 142”. The workhorse 2.25-liter motor had been fully developed for this generation with a sturdy 5-main bearing crankshaft, a modest compression increase and the most power and torque offered with this engine. The 1980 model also features an improved transmission, axles and wheel hubs. It is thus the most reliable and advanced of the true classic compact Defenders.

This 1980 Land Rover Defender Series III is ready for action. This car has been well cared for, thoughtfully kept up and looks amazing! The body features eye-catching red paintwork, additional protection plates, headlamp guards, wide rim wheels with good tires and a trailer hitch. The interior is configured with comfortable, newly upholstered front buckets and side mounted rear seats for four that can be folded up out of the way. The factory hard top can be readily removed if desired.

A fully synchronized 4-speed transmission is augmented by a true 2-speed transfer case and selectable 4-wheel drive to enable the Series III to go literally anywhere. The engine and running gear all work well and are in need of no service or repair. All systems are go and there are no issues with the vehicle.

A very handsome car with all the right touches to accent it’s bad boy looks, this is a sharp statement. Mechanically gone thru and running very well, it is ready for action.

The car currently has a Florida title and will be sold as such.

If preferred, it can be titled in California, but this will entail some very significant additional cost which must be charged to the buyer. Please inquire for details.

The car has:

- 88 inch wheel base (SWB)

- 2.25 Liter gas engine, 5-main bearing type

- RHD – Right hand drive

- 4-speed synchromesh manual transmission (LT95)

- 2-speed transfer case

- Selectable 4-wheel drive

- Assembled in Solihull, UK