HXC 191H - Is it still out there?

[diffwhine]

In November / December 1969, Land Rover did the Sahara Trials on the original Range Rover / VELAR. They were supported by a 109 affectionately known as "Lulubelle". It was fitted with 900x16 Tyres and also the new Range Rover / 101 LT95 Transmission. Therefore I assume it was permanent 4x4 and predates the Stage One V8 by a good 10 plus years. Apparently it had modified Range Rover axles as well which also confirms its early permanent 4x4 heritage.

HXC 191H shows as having the last V5 change in May 2006, and last taxed in April 1991. It also shows as 3528cc, so that would suggest it was modified as a V8 and hence the LT95 transmission.

The chassis number is believed to be : 25104832B

The trail therefore goes cold in 2006, but the fact that a V5 was issued some 15 years after it was last taxed, suggests that it may still be out there. If it is, it would be great to track it down.

Over the years, I've been putting out feelers for this unique beast and so far have drawn a blank. If anybody knows anything about it post the 2006 V5 issue, I'd be really interested in hearing about it. It was probably the most advanced factory built 2A out there, so it would be nice to see if it is still alive or resting in a barn somewhere. Or is it sitting in some museum somewhere that I'm unaware of?

[diffwhine]

Just to add that the V8 engine in that vehicle may well have been (still be!) the Buick V8 or a Rover V8 prototype. The gearbox as well may be an LT95 prototype. All worth investigating.

[jonhutchings]

I presume that's the one that can be occasionally seen in Sahara South. Radish Brown with the headlights moved to the wings and grill panel moved forward a little ? 15:13 in on https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8ogC1Z9esHA 

[diffwhine]

Correct Jon. I think that's down to the film colour. I think it started life as a Green 109. DVLA have it down as Blue now.

[Wittsend]

One for Facebook  a wider audience there.


 

[58paul]

I know it had prototype engine number 2158/11a in it when it was registered by the factory. Its chassis number would suggest original build date near early to mid sixties.