1971 Land Rover Series 2A 3 Door

Location: Santa Monica, California

Why It's Curated: This 1971 Land Rover Series 2A is for sale in Santa Monica, Ca. This final-year Series IIA represents the culmination of Land Rover's original design philosophy, marking the end of an era before the Series III's significant changes arrived later in 1971. What makes this example particularly special is its exceptional rust-free condition—a rarity among Series Land Rovers, especially those that have spent decades in varied climates. The coveted "Maltese Cross" front grille identifies this as one of the most desirable Series IIA configurations, while the front locking differential adds genuine capability for serious off-road work. With consistent maintenance by respected Los Angeles Land Rover specialists and careful garage storage by an automotive enthusiast, this 2A has avoided the common pitfalls that claim so many of these utilitarian classics. As the bridge between the primitive charm of early Series models and the refinements that would follow, this 1971 example captures the sweet spot of classic Land Rover ownership.

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Model History: The 1971 Land Rover Series IIA represents the final evolution of Maurice Wilks' original 1948 design concept, marking the end of an era before the Series III's significant modernization later that same year. Developed from wartime Jeep inspiration into Britain's most capable utility vehicle, the Series IIA incorporated two decades of continuous refinement while maintaining the fundamental simplicity that made Land Rovers legendary worldwide. The 2.25-liter inline-four engine and four-speed transmission with two-speed transfer case represented the pinnacle of Series engineering, offering improved reliability over earlier iterations while retaining the agricultural robustness that allowed these vehicles to serve in the most demanding conditions from African safaris to Antarctic expeditions. What distinguishes the 1971 model year is its status as both an endpoint and a collector's sweet spot—combining the authentic character of early Series models with the mechanical improvements learned over 23 years of production. Against contemporary competitors like the International Scout and early Ford Bronco, the Series IIA offered unmatched global parts availability and proven durability, though with decidedly more spartan accommodations. The iconic "Maltese Cross" grille design and exposed door hinges epitomize the utilitarian aesthetic that would influence off-road vehicle design for decades. Today, rust-free Series IIA examples are increasingly rare, as most served hard working lives in agricultural and industrial applications, making well-preserved specimens highly sought after by collectors who appreciate their historical significance as the foundation of the modern SUV market.

Vehicle Details:
Year: 1971
Make: Land Rover
Model: Series 2A
Trim: 3 Door
Drive: All Wheel Drive
Miles: 91,146
Mileage Verification: Actual Miles
Fuel Type: Gasoline
Transmission: Manual (3 pedals)
Number of Forward Gears: 4
Engine: 2.25-liter inline 4-cylinder engine
Exterior Color: Marine Blue has been used historically on Land Rovers, particularly on certain Series 2 and 2A examples.
Interior Color: Black
State of Registration: California
Vehicle Location: Santa Monica
VIN: Available Upon Request
Title: Clean

Details:

Engine & Transmission:
Powered by Land Rover’s iconic 2.25-liter inline 4-cylinder engine, this Series IIA delivers the robust reliability and go-anywhere performance that built the brand’s reputation. Producing 70 horsepower and 120 lb-ft of torque, it pairs classic simplicity with rugged strength. The engine is mated to a 4-speed manual gearbox with a 2-speed transfer case, giving you selectable 4WD for true off-road capability.

Drivetrain, Suspension, Tires & Brakes:

Locking Differentials: Front Locking Differential
Wheel Size and Offset: 15 inch wheels
Tire Brand, Model, and Size: Grip Classic

Exterior & Interior:
The Land Rover was repainted approximately 14 years ago by a previous owner. While the exact date and year of the respray are not documented, the paint has held up well and still presents nicely, showing only light signs of age and use. The work was done in the classic Marine Blue, staying true to the Series IIA’s original character and enhancing its timeless vintage appeal.

Vinyl interior
Working Heat: Yes
Working Air Conditioning: No

Other Notable Features or Functions:
1971 marked the last production year of the Series IIA, making these trucks especially collectible. They represent the peak of the traditional Series design before Land Rover transitioned to the Series III later that same year. Many consider late-production 2As to be the sweet spot — retaining the rugged charm of the early trucks but with improved drivability and refinements. The Land Rover “Maltese” front grille — often called the Maltese Cross grille — is one of the most recognizable and cherished details from the early Land Rover era, and it’s especially prized on late Series IIA models, including those built in 1971, the final year of production.

Recent Maintenance:
All maintenance is current and has been performed by a highly respected Land Rover specialist in Los Angeles. The truck has been consistently serviced and cared for by professionals familiar with classic Series models, ensuring it runs reliably and remains in excellent mechanical condition.

Mechanical, Rust, Cosmetic Known Flaws:
This Land Rover Series IIA is exceptionally clean and completely rust-free, a testament to the care it has received over the years. It has been consistently garaged and meticulously maintained by an automotive aficionado who understands and appreciates the importance of preserving a classic like this. As a result, it presents beautifully inside and out, with a solid, well-kept chassis and body that reflect its careful stewardship.