This 1975 Land Rover SIII Air Portable or Lightweight was purchased as British Ministry of Defense surplus in 1999, immediately after which the seller had it shipped to Texas. Well-maintained but used sporadically since, it’s said to be in good mechanical order with functional electrics and minimal, non-structural rust. It includes its original folding softtop, user manual, illustrated parts catalog, and “Pioneer Kit” consisting of a pick and shovel on the tailgate.

These Lightweight models were designed to be air-lifted by the Westland Wessex, however in order to avoid exceeding that helicopter’s 2500 lb. payload limit the truck’s roof, doors and windscreen had to be removed and shipped separately. In fact, at 2,650 pounds fully equipped, these trucks were actually slightly heavier than standard short-chassis models.

This one wears an authentic and untouched military service patina with brushed-on camouflage paint and several small dents in its aluminum bodywork. Described as solid, the seller adds that it’s completely free of non-surface type rust save for a few small spots in the footwells. This assessment includes the bulkhead, a common area of concern in old Land Rovers. Turn signals, brake lights, headlights, wipers, and all other electrically-driven accessories work as designed.

All lights, gauges, and dash switchgear functions. A softtop with supporting tube framing is included, though the canvas top itself is a bit worn and could stand to be repaired or replaced.

This footwell shot shows a small rust hole, and a similarly sized spot is visible on the driver’s side as well–see the full gallery for more.

Power comes from a 2.25 liter gasoline four cylinder good for about 70 HP and 120 lb. ft. It’s said to start, idle, and run well with no excessive oil consumption or smoke, the seller adding that the clutch engages smoothly with no chatter or slip. A 2-speed auxiliary gearbox/overdrive unit has been added during his time with the truck, effectively doubling available forward gear ratios to eight and allowing easy 50 MPH cruising.

Further described as nearly unstoppable off-road, tires date from 2000 but show hardly any wear. Transfer case, suspension, steering, and brakes are all claimed to be equally healthy, and both clutch master and slave cylinders are brand new.