1960 Land Rover S2

Land Rover Series 2 (Utility), 1958-1961

The Land Rover Series 2 was in production from 1956 to 1961. Styled in house by David Bache, it is a front-engine, all wheel drive utility vehicle seating upwards of two adults depending upon its configuration. Bodies included two and four door commercials, station wagons, and a pick up of two lengths.

The primary difference between the Series 1 and Series 2 is that the Series 2 was styled. The Series 1 was developed to use as little sheet metal as possible and never went near the Rover styling department; the later car was drawn by David Bache and built upon the existing shape. Barrel sides helped to cover the wider track, while the metal side screens and curved hood improved the cabin environment for those who had to drive it. The first 1500 88" models used the 2.0 engine from the outgoing Series 1, but from then all petrol models were powered by the 2.25 litre unit that would power the Land Rover into the 1980s. This engine was related to the existing 2.0 diesel unit. The 109" Station Wagon of 1959 was available with 12 seats for the first time - as this made it a bus, it wasn't eligible for purchase tax and thus was cheaper than the 88" Station Wagon or ten seat 109" Station Wagon - a loophole which has also allowed subsequent models to be exempted from the congestion charge and permitted to use bus lanes. As with all Series Land Rovers, much of the value is in the strength of the chassis and the bulkhead - it's important that these are solid, and that if they have been replaced the work has been done properly by a reputable specialist.

The Series 2 would be replaced for 1961 by the Series 2a, making this one of the shortest-lived Land Rover models.

Alternatives for Land Rover enthusiasts would be easily found in the Series 1 and Series 2a models that preceded and succeeded it, as well as in imported models from Jeep in America. By now the Land Rover was moving away from its role as a glorified tractor, making cars like the Rover 60 a more viable alternative. If you wanted something more basic though, the Ford Popular would make an excellent alternative provided the utility of the Land Rover wasn't needed.