Vintage land rovers are a favorite of classic car aficionados and adventurers, with some models going for prices beyond the budget of many collectors. With their boxy shape and spartan interiors, these classic 4x4s are an iconic symbol of British engineering and design.

The ‘Season’ Series (Series I, II and III) built between 1948 and 1983 are still very much Land Rover’s go-to off-road vehicle, albeit one that now faces stiff competition from more modern, sophisticated SUVs. But despite a few cosmetic tweaks and progressively more upmarket power trains, the ‘Series’ model’s stout-yet-primitive chassis has rarely changed for more than half a century.

Its cult following has spawned a number of companies dedicated to restoring these old-school vehicles, including Coolnvintage out of Lisbon, Portugal, which honors the minimalist design of early land rovers and incorporates subtle, high-quality details such as leather dashboards and Marshall sound systems. The result is a tony truck that’s stout enough to handle serious overlanding when called upon, thanks to reinforced suspensions and upgraded disc brakes.

The History of Vintage Land Rovers: From 1948 to Today

They also have a quiet, low-slung, ride that makes them a great choice for a family vacation or camping trip. That’s because they have the capacity to haul up to seven people, and they can tackle a variety of terrain.

In an age when everything seems to receive more moving parts and more failure points, it’s refreshing to see that a car can stay simple, rugged and reliable for years on end. That’s why the classic Land Rover has managed to remain a cherished icon among automotive enthusiasts – even as the industry increasingly clamors for newer designs and technologies.