Back on classic wheels again.

[chris1850]

After around 12 years of only moderns I'm finally back behind the wheel of a classic enjoying the delights of manual steering, non existent turning circle, cart springs, drum brakes all round, selectable four wheel drive, 12 seats (well there were 12 when it was new in 1970) and rain inside as well as out.

Should be enough there to identify it.

It came with a tropical roof, safari rack, overdrive, FWH and a 200Tdi so it goes up hills rather better!

It's quite a contrast to the Leaf that's now my daily hack.

[genegenie]

Land Rover Safari?

[chris1850]

Near enough.... started life as a straightforward 2.25 petrol 12 seater station wagon.If the tropical roof makes that a "Safari" then that's what it is.

[harvey]

I remember fitting tropical roofs to new Land Rovers when I was at the main stealer. Operating lazy tongs at arms length certainly builds up your shoulder muscles.

[bent8rover]

Yes Safaris are the Tropical roofs by another name.

I'm told the main thing to remember is the skin won't take body weight well so don't go walking on it.  But you knew that I'm sure!

One aside is a genuine 12 Seater Station Wagon is classed by DVLA as a minibus.  Therefore exempt from the London Congestion Charge if you so wish to pop down and see Lizzie.  Must have seat belts for at least 9 separate positions though, inc driver.  No benches.

Looking forward to photos!

[chris1850]

It was a genuine 12 seater when it left the works but currently the V5C describes it as a 4X4 Light Utility with no mention of number of seats. If I removed the false floor in the back and refitted the original seats it would go up to 11 but at present it has only 5- the centre front is now a storage locker. It has seatbelts only for the two remaining front seats, the central row of three utilitarian flat cushion ones have no restraints.

Here it is about 6 weeks ago: