1969 Land Rover Series IIA 88, a running original survivor with fresh brakes and fuel system

Why we picked it

Why we picked it: this is a private-party 1969 Series IIA 88 that the seller describes as an original survivor that runs great, with its original 2.25-liter petrol four. The seller lists new brakes, new fuel lines and pump, a rebuilt carburetor and new ignition parts, and the listing shows a clear title. At $15,595 or best offer it sits well under the $19,000 to $29,000 that comparable original 88s brought at auction this year.

The listing says nothing about the chassis, bulkhead or body, and it has been on ClassicCars.com for a while, so treat the price as a starting point and plan an in-person look. A short-wheelbase Series truck that already runs and stops is the easiest way into the Land Rover hobby.

The value check

The seller is asking $14,695. Comparable cars in the same condition have sold for $19,000–$29,000, so the middle of the market is about $24,000. That put this car 39% under.

Original, running US-market Series IIA/III 88s sold between $19,000 and $29,000 on Bring a Trailer in 2026 (1973 88 at $19,000, 1964 IIA 88 at $26,150, 1969 IIA 88 at $28,000, 1971 IIA 88 at $29,000).

Where the numbers come from:

• 1964 Series IIA 88, BaT, $26,150 (Aug 2026)
• 1969 Series IIA 88, BaT, $28,000 (Jul 2026)
• 1971 Series IIA 88, BaT, $29,000 (Jul 2026)
• 1973 Series 88, BaT, $19,000 (May 2026)

What to check

• Chassis rails, rear crossmember and outriggers rust from the inside; probe them with a screwdriver
• Check the steel bulkhead footwells and door pillars, which are costly to repair
• Aluminum body panels corrode where they touch steel (galvanic corrosion around the door frames and cappings)
• Listing does not give a VIN; match the chassis plate to the title before paying
• The listing is not new; confirm it is still available and why it has not sold
• Swivel hub and axle leaks are common; check the swivel ball chrome for pitting

Making it drive like new

Keep the 2.25 and add a parabolic leaf spring kit, a dual-circuit brake master cylinder with a servo, and an electronic ignition, which transforms ride and stopping without hurting value. A galvanized replacement chassis is the long-term fix if the frame is tired, and an overdrive unit and Ashcroft-style axle upgrades make it more usable on the highway.