LAND ROVER SERIES 1 (1948-58)
SEE IT AT LAND ROVER GATHERING, TALYLLYN RAILWAY
The Series 1 was the beginning of a legend, descendents of the famous off-roader remaining in production until the last Defender rolled off the Solihull production line on 29 January 2016. We have to rewind 61 years for the car you see here, the ‘lights behind the grille’ model launched at the Amsterdam Motor Show, bringing goanywhere ability to the masses.
Originally available in 80-inch wheelbase form, that would grow over the years to encompass both short- and long-wheelbase variants and the petrol engine would be joined by an oil-burner from 1957. It would be replaced by the Series 2 the following year. But whatever its size and motive power, what the Landie always offered was immense capability when the going got tough, and it would prove itself in some of the harshest terrain on earth. Okay, so it was never going to be the fastest way of getting around, and it felt agricultural to drive on the road, but head into the rough stuff and it was unbeatable.
It absolutely brims with character, so it’s no surprise that it engenders a loyal following, and what better way to celebrate that than at this small but enthusiastic gathering. Don’t expect artisan food stalls, live action arenas or family entertainment; instead you can just enjoy admiring these great vehicles and chewing the fat with like-minded owners and enthusiasts.
2019 marks the 30th year of the event, and the historic Talyllyn Railway is a cracking venue, too. The vehicles will be on display in the Wharf Station yard, and while numbers are small in car show terms – expect around 40 examples – there’s always a great variety of models. And that’s not all, because this enjoyable day also provides the opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of steam engines.
As well as being able to take a trip on a steam train, there’s the narrow gauge railway museum, and don’t forget to pop into the café and shop. If you’re a fan of solid British engineering the mix of old Land Rovers and steam engines seems rather appropriate, so if you’re looking for something a bit different this bank holiday we think you’re going to love this. 1953 LAND ROVER S1 ENGINE 1997cc/4-cyl/OHV POWER 52bhp@4000rpm TORQUE 101lb ft@1500rpm MAXIMUM SPEED 60mph 0-50MPH 28sec FUEL CONSUMPTION 18-25mpg TRANSMISSION AWD, four-speed manual