Rover built a 4-door prototype Range Rover in 1972, but British Leyland’s finances ensured it was never produced although various specialists offered 4-door conversions. After the success of the first 2-door “In Vogue”, it became obvious that the utilitarian Range Rover could be moved upmarket, and a 4-door model was announced in June 1981. 

To publicise this, and the newly available automatic transmission, Rover launched the limited edition 4-door automatic ‘In Vogue’ Series 2 in August 1982, which was only available in Sierra Silver or Nevada Gold. Only 250 of each colour were made, and they all featured alloy wheels, distinctive graphics, a branded cool box, wooden door cappings and a Philips stereo.

This example was completed on 21st July 1982 and immediately dispatched to Skinners Motors Ltd, St Leonards-on-Sea, East Sussex. It was displayed in the dealership before first owner, Kent-based farmer Mr Cooper, took ownership until New Year’s Day 1983. He paid Skinners’ subsidiary, Bexhill Motors, £16,000 for his 17th Range Rover! He’d bought his first in 1970, then ordered a new one annually.

This was, however, his retirement car, so he rust-proofed it, serviced it on his 4-post ramp, and retained all the accessories and paperwork. It was purchased by ‘The Dunsfold Collection’ of Land Rover related vehicles in November 2010, and remains in excellent original condition, wearing its 80,000 miles lightly. 

It has appeared in many TV programmes, magazine articles and live events.