09 May 08
Series II models marked the Land Rover's 10th anniversary: new side sills and wings updated the styling, and the petrol engine was enlarged to 2.25 litres and 72bhp. Wheelbases grew to 88 inches (SWB) and 109 inches (station wagon, now seating up to 12).
Series IIA models, with new 2.25-litre diesel option, arrived in 1961; a six-cylinder 2.5 petrol was later offered in station wagon models. Production reached a record high in 1969-70, with over 60,000 sold internationally.
Series III (1971) brought few changes apart from repositioned headlights, to meet new international safety regulations, though in the late '70s, the gearbox finally gained synchromesh for all four gears. 440,000-odd Series III models were made, with total Land Rover production reaching 100,000 in 1976.
In the 1980s there were few much-needed improvements: the choice of the Range Rover's V8 (detuned to 90bhp) brought more power, if not improved fuel economy, and a transmission and rear axle redesign gave better durability in hard conditions. Buyers could even get cloth seats and sound-proofing in the relatively luxurious 'County' versions.
