1964 Land Rover S2A

Land Rover Series 2a (Utility), 1961-1971

The Land Rover Series 2a was in production from 1961 to 1971. 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.

There are few identifying features between Series 2 and Series 2a - but the range grew in breadth. 109" models were from 1967 to be available with the six cylinder engine from the outgoing P4 saloons, while all models now gained a larger 2.25 litre diesel engine when diesel was specified. Sales of over 60000 per year during the 1960s showed that the Land Rover market was booming, and by Land Rover's 20th anniversary in 1968 almost 600000 Land Rovers of all types had been built. Of those, just 30% remained in the UK and the remainder were exported.

From 1969 the headlamps were moved to the wings and the sills redesigned, ahead of the launch of the Series 3 model. The Series 2a also heralded the arrival of the forward control chassis, developed for increased load capacity. Series 2bs should be considered a similar vehicle, but added the option of a diesel engine. 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 2a was replaced in 1971 by the Series 3.

The Series 3 would be an admirable alternative for those seeking other options today, as would the earlier Series 2 and Jeeps imported from America. The carryall nature of the 12 seater versions also brings vehicles like the Ford Transit into play, though it should be noted that these lack the Landy's go-anywhere ability. Simple cars such as the Ford Anglia and the Triumph Herald S might be considered by those who like the Land Rover's utilitarianism, while something like a Renault 4 or Citroen 2CV combined the needs of farmers and city dwellers with equal alacrity.