Lot details Registration No: RHL 253X Chassis No: SALLHABVIAA116592 Mot Expiry: 05/09
According to an article in Land Rover Monthly magazine, this particular Range Rover was one of an identical pair commissioned by the MOD. Due to the number of factory parts used (Series III Land Rover cab windows, Range Rover 4-door based tailgate, Vogue 1981 limited edition wood trim and Rover SD1 door furniture etc) its conversion into a ceremonial / parade vehicle is believed but not warranted to have been carried out by Land Rover Special Vehicles. Originally finished in RAF Blue with blue velour upholstery, the modified 4x4 could accommodate two people up front and four to the rear. As well as a fold-down step for easy access those riding in the back also benefited from a perimeter hand-rail, sliding division and side-facing seats (complete with generous armrests). While, the provision of a detachable Perspex canopy permitted bad weather usage. Mechanically, the Range Rover was little altered save for the adoption of Land Rover low ratio differentials and a calibrated speedometer (the latter making it easier for the driver to maintain a steady speed when parading). Collected on April 15th 1982 and stationed at RAF Rudloe Manor thereafter, it was issued with the armed forces registration number '45 AJ 49'. Home to the RAF Provost and Security Service the Wiltshire base played host to numerous VIPs. Indeed, Land Rover Monthly stated that "there is film evidence of this and / or its sister vehicle ('45 AJ 48') being used by the Queen and members of the Royal Family as well as Margaret Thatcher when she was Prime Minister". Doubtless both Range Rovers were also tasked with ferrying high ranking military officials and other dignitaries. Demobbed via a MOD disposal sale at Aston Down in early 1992 after almost ten years and 31,000 miles of service, '45 AJ 49' was re-registered for civilian use as 'RHL 253X'. Painted black but retaining its original upholstery, it is described by the vendor as being in "very good overall" condition. Powered by a 3.5 litre V8 allied to four-speed manual transmission, the 4x4 is warranted to have covered just under 50,000 miles from new. An ideal shooting brake or extravagant golf cart, this special Range Rover is offered for sale with MOT certificate valid until May 2009.
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