1973 Land Rover Series III 88 ex-Belgian military with a fresh canvas top and new tires

Why we picked it

Why we picked it: Streetside Classics in Atlanta lists this 1973 Series III 88 at $18,995. The dealer says it served with the Belgian military as a training vehicle and has been garage-stored for more than 25 years. Recent work includes a fresh coat of military green, a new canvas top, newly upholstered vinyl seats, new tires and a newly installed 2.25-liter four with a Weber carburetor. It keeps the 24-volt military electrical system.

Series III 88s in comparable driver condition sold for $31,000 to $33,750 on Bring a Trailer this fall. Even against plainer IIA 88s at $22,000 to $26,000, this one is priced low. The listing does not cover rust, chassis condition or title, and the VIN shown (90409104A) needs to be checked against the chassis plate.

The value check

The seller is asking $19,394. Comparable cars in the same condition have sold for $22,000–$33,750, so the middle of the market is about $27,875. That put this car 30% under.

Compared with US Series IIA and III 88 driver sales on Bring a Trailer from Aug-Sep 2026 at $22,000-$33,750. Ex-military cars with basic spec often sell toward the lower end of that range.

Where the numbers come from:

• 1973 Series III 88, BaT, $33,750 (Sep 2026)
• 1973 Series III 88, BaT, $31,000 (Aug 2026)
• 1964 Series IIA 88, BaT, $26,150 (Aug 2026)
• 1966 Series IIA 88, BaT, $22,000 (Aug 2026)

What to check

• Inspect the steel chassis closely, especially the rear crossmember, outriggers and spring hangers
• Check the bulkhead footwells and door pillars, which rust behind the aluminum panels
• The 24-volt military electrics make parts and accessories harder to find, and many owners convert to 12V
• Confirm the title, the import paperwork and that the chassis number matches the VIN plate
• Look for oil leaks at the swivel housings, the transfer case and the rear main seal
• Ask what 'newly installed' engine means: rebuilt, used, or a replacement block

Making it drive like new

A galvanized chassis is the usual base for a restomod Series truck. Add parabolic springs, modern dampers, front disc brakes, a 12V conversion with LED lights and a Fairey or Roverdrive overdrive. A 200Tdi/300Tdi diesel or a GM LS swap adds real highway pace for builders who want it.