Range Rover 1981 "in Vogue"

We are delighted to present for sale this exceptionally rare 1981 Range Rover “In Vogue” — an original Irish-market example.

The “In Vogue” occupies a unique place in Range Rover history. Introduced in February 1981 as a collaboration between Range Rover and Vogue magazine, it became the first factory-produced limited edition Range Rover and laid the foundations for the Vogue nameplate which continues through the Range Rover range to this day.

The In Vogue models featured a custom coach stripe atop Vogue denim blue, upgraded interior trim, wooden door cappings, air conditioning. A matching picnic hamper was also available as an option, reinforcing the vehicle’s blend of luxury and utility which would go on to define the Range Rover brand.

Delivered new to British Leyland Ireland in June 1981, it retains its original Irish registration number — “1KZU” — having remained in Ireland it's entire life.

The current owner discovered 1KZU in barn-find condition. Recognising the rarity of the vehicle, he acquired it with the intention of carrying out a full restoration. In 2020, Maxwell Automotive were commissioned to undertake a complete nut-and-bolt restoration of the vehicle.

A 900- hour complete bare metal restoration was complemented by by significant effort to source rare and period-correct components in order to return the vehicle to its original specification and presentation.

While maintaining a highly original appearance, the vehicle benefits from several subtle and sympathetic upgrades designed to improve drivability and usability. These include the installation of a late model heated windscreen and also a later R380 five-speed gearbox, carefully integrated using the original lever positions to preserve the authentic interior appearance.

A period-style Blaupunkt stereo has also been fitted, discreetly incorporating modern Bluetooth connectivity for music streaming and hands-free telephone use while remaining visually faithful to the era of the vehicle.

Body type: SUV
Year: 1981
Mileage: 805 km
Transmission: Manual
Model: Range Rover
Engine size:
Make: Land Rover
Fuel type: Petrol Gas