The 1980 Land Rover Santana 88 Series III represents a unique chapter in the history of off-road exploration, combining British engineering with Spanish manufacturing expertise. This specific example, finished in a striking RAF Blue, emerged from a comprehensive restoration in Valencia before arriving in the United States.
Expert Spanish Restoration and Exterior Details
Renowned specialists Autology Motors S.L.U. performed a ground-up restoration to bring this vehicle to its current showroom condition. The bodywork shines in Admiralty Blue PPG paint, accented by a silver grille and original naked galvanized beltline trim. A new galvanized hoop set supports a Sand-colored double-duck English canvas soft top, providing a classic rugged silhouette. Five black steel wheels mounted with 7.50×16 all-terrain tires ensure it remains ready for any topographical challenge. Furthermore, the chassis rails were treated with zinc-based anti-corrosion paint to preserve the structural integrity for decades to come.
Luxury Tobacco Brown Leather Interior
The cabin underwent a significant transformation, featuring twin front bucket seats and a center console upholstered in genuine Tobacco Brown leather. Craftsmen utilized original deluxe-style stitching with matching brown thread to maintain an authentic yet elevated aesthetic. For passenger utility, the rear cargo area includes two 2-person bench jump seats, making this SUV a versatile transporter. Modern comforts were also integrated, such as heated front seats and dual USB ports tucked into the center console. Hand-cut brown carpeting flows throughout the interior, resting atop anti-vibration sound-deadening panels for a more refined driving experience.
Controls and Driving Environment
The driver interacts with a classic thin-rimmed steering wheel and a utilitarian black dashboard that houses essential instrumentation. A central 120-km/h speedometer dominates the cluster, showing only 31,474 kilometers, which translates to a very low 19,557 miles. Traditional levers for the four-speed manual transmission and the two-speed 4WD transfer case sit prominently on the floor. This layout provides a tactile, mechanical connection to the road that modern vehicles simply cannot replicate.
Diesel Engine Performance and Specifications
Under the hood, this 1980 Land Rover Santana 88 is powered by the reliable Rover 2.25L diesel inline-four engine. This powerplant is known for its durability and low-end torque, making it an ideal choice for backcountry trails. The 4-speed manual gearbox allows the driver to manage the diesel’s output effectively across various terrains. When the pavement ends, the selectable 4WD system provides the necessary traction to navigate steep inclines or muddy paths with total confidence.
Series III SUV Summary
This 1980 Land Rover Santana 88 Series III stands as a pristine example of a global automotive icon. Its journey from late 1979 manufacturing to a world-class restoration in Spain has resulted in a truly unique collector vehicle. With documented low mileage and a blend of vintage charm and contemporary upgrades, it is prepared for its next owner’s adventure. It remains a testament to the enduring appeal of the Land Rover platform across international borders.
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Source: motorcarclassics.com
