Land Rover Forward Control

vs

Land Rover Series III

UK vs UK — 1962 vs 1971

Land Rover Forward Control (1962)
Land Rover Series III (1971)
Specifications
Forward Control Series IIB 109Series III 109 V8 Station Wagon
Horsepower76 hp91 hp
Torque160 lb-ft
Engine Size2,625 cc3,528 cc
0-60 mph16.5 sec
Top Speed75 mph
¼ Mile20.8 sec
Weight3,726 lbs
Wheelbase2,768 mm2,768 mm
Length4,775 mm4,699 mm
Units Produced440,000
Value (Excellent)$50,000$65,000
Collectibility5/107/10
Rarity10/103/10
The Verdict

Numbers favor the 1971 Land Rover Series III 109 V8 Station Wagon with more power, stronger collectibility. The 1962 Land Rover Forward Control Series IIB 109 offers its unique character, and has its own devoted following. For those who let their heart decide, either car delivers a rewarding ownership experience.

Overview

Land Rover has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1962 Land Rover Forward Control Series IIB 109 with the 1971 Land Rover Series III 109 V8 Station Wagon highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1962 Land Rover Forward Control Series IIB 109 producing 76 hp and the 1971 Land Rover Series III 109 V8 Station Wagon delivering 91 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Land Rover Forward Control uses a Inline-6 displacing 2,625 cc, while the Land Rover Series III relies on a V8 OHV with 3,528 cc. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1971 Land Rover Series III 109 V8 Station Wagon rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.