1970 Land Rover 88 Series 2A

HIGHLIGHTS

• Fully photo documented frame-off restoration carried out by the current custodian in 2023

• Engine rebuilt, deep restoration of the mechanics

• Series 2A with modified Series 2 front end

• Registered in Italy with 6 passenger seats

• Soft top

• Black “Varese” first Italian license plate

• Fully repainted in Porsche “Murano Green”

The Land Rover 88: an Off-Road Icon

The 1970 Land Rover 88, part of the legendary Series IIA lineup, remains one of the most recognizable and enduring symbols of rugged off-road capability. As a continuation of the Land Rover Series, which began in 1948, the 88-inch wheelbase model became synonymous with durability, functionality, and the ability to tackle the toughest terrains.

By 1970, Land Rover had already established itself as the go-to vehicle for explorers, farmers, and military forces around the world. The 88 was the shorter, more agile version of the long-wheelbase models, making it an ideal choice for those needing a tough, versatile off-roader in a compact form.

Building on a Legacy

Land Rover's roots can be traced back to post-World War II Britain, where the original Series I Land Rover was created as an all-purpose agricultural vehicle, inspired by the Willys Jeep. With a focus on simplicity, utility, and off-road prowess, the Land Rover quickly evolved into an iconic workhorse. The Series IIA, introduced in 1961, represented a major step forward in the vehicle’s development. It remained largely unchanged in appearance but featured improved mechanical components and interior upgrades.

The 88-inch model, named for its wheelbase length, was a direct evolution of the Series IIA, representing the shorter of the two main versions—the 109-inch being the long-wheelbase variant. The 1970 Land Rover 88 exemplified the company’s commitment to a vehicle that could function in remote and unforgiving environments, without sacrificing reliability or ease of repair.

Design: Pure Functionality

The design of the 1970 Land Rover 88 remained rooted in the original concept of rugged simplicity. The vehicle's square, utilitarian shape was the result of a design ethos focused on function over form. The body was made of lightweight, corrosion-resistant aluminum, mounted on a solid steel ladder-frame chassis. This construction made the 88 not only durable but easy to repair in the field, a key selling point for customers in rural or remote areas.

One of the defining characteristics of the Land Rover 88 was its flat, minimalist body panels, which were easy to manufacture and replace. The front featured the distinctive vertical grille and round headlamps positioned within the metal wings, giving the vehicle its characteristic, no-nonsense look. A small windscreen, which could be folded down for better visibility off-road, completed the simple but effective design.

The interior of the 88 was basic but functional. The cabin was designed for ease of cleaning and durability, with painted metal surfaces, simple gauges, and vinyl seats. There was no luxury to be found, but the vehicle’s charm came from its straightforward approach. Seating was provided for the driver and two passengers in the front, while the rear space could be configured for additional seating or cargo storage, further enhancing the vehicle’s versatility.

Technical Specifications: The Reliable 2.25-Liter Petrol Engine

Under the hood, the 1970 Land Rover 88 was powered by a 2.25-liter inline-four petrol engine, a tried-and-true workhorse of the Land Rover lineup.

This engine produced around 70 horsepower and 124 lb-ft (168 Nm) of torque, delivering enough low-end grunt to power the 88 through challenging off-road conditions. While not a high-performance engine, it was known for its reliability and ease of maintenance, critical for vehicles often used in isolated environments.

The 88 came equipped with a four-speed manual transmission, and its two-speed transfer case allowed the driver to select either high-range or low-range gearing, depending on the terrain. In difficult off-road conditions, the low-range gearbox enabled precise control over rocky, muddy, or steep surfaces, making the Land Rover virtually unstoppable. The vehicle featured a part-time four-wheel-drive system, which could be engaged manually when needed, adding to its off-road versatility.

The 88’s suspension system was based on leaf springs with solid axles, a design that provided durability and high ground clearance, but also resulted in a fairly harsh ride on paved roads. The braking system consisted of four-wheel drum brakes, which, while adequate for the time, required more effort than modern braking systems.

This chassis number

This 1970 Land Rover 88 Series 2A, featuring a modified Series 2 front end and a soft top body configuration, presents a stunning example of restoration excellence. Having traveled just 5.000 km since its comprehensive frame-off restoration in 2023, meticulously carried out by its current custodian, the vehicle boasts fully rebuilt mechanicals, including a newly overhauled engine with new pistons, overdrive, and axles.

The interior has been luxuriously upgraded with handcrafted leather from an artisan in Vicenza, complementing its striking Porsche "Murano Green" exterior repaint. First registered in Italy in June 1970, it retains its black “Varese” license plate and is certified for six passengers. Its most recent service was completed in August 2024.

How does it drive?

Behind the wheel of the 1970 Land Rover 88, the driving experience is one of simplicity and raw connection to the mechanical elements. On the road, the 88 feels rugged and utilitarian, with minimal creature comforts. The steering is heavy, particularly at low speeds, and the manual gearbox requires deliberate, strong inputs. The ride, due to the leaf-spring suspension, is stiff and bouncy on paved roads, making it clear that this vehicle was designed for function rather than comfort.

Off-road, however, the 88 shines in its element. The combination of high ground clearance, short wheelbase, and four-wheel drive allows it to navigate rough and uneven terrain with ease. Whether climbing rocky trails, crossing muddy fields, or fording streams, the Land Rover feels unstoppable, and its mechanical simplicity becomes an asset in these conditions. The petrol engine, though modest in output, provides ample torque for low-speed crawling, and the manual four-speed gearbox offers precise control in challenging situations.

Despite its off-road prowess, the Land Rover 88 requires the driver to be fully engaged at all times. It lacks power-assisted steering and modern comforts, so driving it is a physical experience. However, this level of involvement is exactly what appeals to enthusiasts who appreciate the vehicle’s no-frills approach to adventure. The Land Rover 88 is not a vehicle for those seeking speed or luxury; rather, it’s a tool for those who need reliable transportation through the toughest terrains.

Conclusion: A Timeless Classic

The 1970 Land Rover 88 remains an icon of off-road driving, embodying the core principles of utility, durability, and reliability. Its simple, functional design and robust engineering made it a vehicle that could be relied upon in the harshest conditions, whether in the African bush, the Australian Outback, or the remote hills of Scotland. While its on-road manners may feel primitive compared to modern SUVs, the Land Rover 88's off-road capability and charm continue to captivate collectors and adventurers alike.

Today, the Land Rover 88 is celebrated as a classic, appreciated for its historical significance and mechanical purity. For those who value adventure, simplicity, and rugged capability, the 1970 Land Rover 88 represents the pinnacle of off-road motoring. It’s not just a vehicle; it’s a reminder of a time when cars were built to last, and the journey was often as challenging as the destination.

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CAR LOCATION: Treviso, Italy 🇮🇹

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