If we asked our UK readers to assemble a list of the ten most iconic vehicles to roll off a British production line, many of those lists would include a Land Rover of some description. These classics aren’t fast or glamorous, but they are unerringly practical and as tough as old nails. They remain a firm favorite of the British royal family, and the late Queen Elizabeth II was often seen behind the wheel of one on her holidays to Sandringham. This Rover is a 1973 Series III. It is the long-wheelbase 109 variant and is an unmolested survivor. It runs and drives and could be an excellent candidate for someone seeking a project off-roader. The seller’s decision to drop their price might make it irresistible to some.

Land Rover introduced its Series III range in 1971, taking a “slowly, slowly” approach to development. There was little to visually separate the new model from its predecessor beyond an updated grille, but the company continued with the mechanical evolution of the badge. It remained available in North American markets until 1974, with our feature vehicle rolling off the line in 1973. Its presentation is respectable for a vehicle of this type and age. The Green paint sports marks and scratches, and its appearance has become matte. However, vigorous work with a high-quality polish could transform its looks if the new owner pursues the preservation path. The panels are straight, with no appreciable dings or dents. The seller confirms there is rust, but they don’t specify its location or severity. It won’t be in the panels due to the company’s use of aluminum, but frames can pose problems with age. It may not be an issue, but only an in-person inspection will confirm whether it requires immediate or professional attention. The vehicle is missing a couple of small badges, but the glass looks good, and the off-roader rolls on its original wheels.

The Land Rover 109 is a model of versatility, and thanks to the cantilever rear seats, it can accommodate up to twelve people. Early vehicles featured vinyl trim, but this gem scores points with its Gray cloth. It needs a deep clean to present at its best, but the fabric is surprisingly free from wear and visible stains. The rubber mats are intact and in good order, but there are a few shortcomings the buyer might wish to address. The end cap is missing from the dash on the driver’s side, and the pad has cracked in several spots. I had no trouble locating a replacement pad for $225 but had less luck with the cap during an admittedly brief online search. However, persistence might pay dividends, and there are suppliers in the UK who will ship internationally if the buyer seeks a high-end interior presentation and has no luck locally. Creature comforts don’t extend beyond a heater, with occupants potentially facing a round of Car Pool Karaoke on long journeys.

Powering this Land Rover is the company’s 2,625cc six-cylinder engine. It sends its power to the road via a four-speed manual transmission and a bulletproof dual-range transfer case. The motor delivers a modest 84hp and 132 ft/lbs of torque, which doesn’t sound like many ponies to shift a vehicle weighing 3,955 lbs. However, outright speed was never the aim of this exercise. The engine’s torque peaks at 1,500rpm, making it easy to see how these classics developed a reputation of covering harsh terrain with the engine barely ticking over. The seller indicates this classic is in sound mechanical health. It runs and drives, the brakes work, and the four-wheel drive system functions as it should. It is unclear whether it is roadworthy, but it seems the foundations are there to achieve that goal if it isn’t.

The seller listed this 1973 Land Rover 109 here on eBay in Halcottsville, New York. They initially set their price at $20,000 but have dropped their BIN to $18,000. However, if that figure is too rich for your blood, their willingness to consider offers may make it more enticing. The BIN is below what Hagerty quotes for a #4 example but is probably slightly above market expectations. That needn’t be a deal-breaker because careful negotiation could see someone take it home for less. What do you feel would be a fair price for this British classic?