1953 Land Rover Petrol · 393 UXJ
1953 Land Rover (petrol). First registered 01/04/1953. MOT status: Expired. Taxed until 01/11/2026.
- Make & Model
- LAND ROVER
- Year / Origin
- 1953
- Safety Recall
- Unknown
- MOT Status
- Valid until 10/07/2025
- Road Tax
- Taxed (01/11/2026)
- Recorded Mileage
- —
- ULEZ Compliance
- Check Required (Pre-Euro 4 Petrol)
- Fuel & Engine
- PETROL
- Reliability Guide
- Available on IAGC
- Fuel Type
- PETROL
- Year
- 1953
- Engine
- ---
393 UXJ Key Findings
- 2 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 12/07/2024
- No defects recorded at the latest MOT
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
MOT Roadworthiness: Average
This rating reflects historical MOT pass rates and recurring advisory wear patterns from official DVSA test logs. Note that roadworthiness does not verify outstanding finance, insurance write-offs, or stolen records.
Verify lender finance agreements, insurance write-offs, police stolen registers, and mileage rollback.
Technical Specifications
Core Specifications
Identification & Status
Dimensions & Weights
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393 UXJ MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
2 MOT tests are recorded for this 1953 Land Rover Unknown (393 UXJ) between May 2023 and July 2024.
The record contains 2 passes and 0 failures.
The record shows no MOT failures, although 1 advisory notice notes an item to monitor.
Across all tests, the most frequently flagged areas are: Brakes (1 issue). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 1 advisory notice is recorded. Advisories flag items that passed but may need attention before the next test; they are not evidence of how well the vehicle has been serviced.
Buyer's Guide & Inspection Advisory
Expert automotive synthesis from historical MOT defect records and market benchmarks.
Our Verdict
A rare 1953 petrol Land Rover with a cle
Given the vehicle's age, the primary focus should be on the chassis and bodywork integrity. While the MOT records are relatively clean, they do not provide a full picture of the vehicle's structural health or engine condition. You should request a detailed history of any restorations or major mechanical overhauls performed since 1953.
Negotiate based on the current state of the chassis and the availability of period-correct spare parts. Ensure that the petrol engine is operating without significant leaks and that the electrical system, which is primitive by modern standards, is functioning reliably.
Fuel economy for a 1950s petrol engine will be significantly lower than modern vehicles. However, as a vehicle from 1953, it should qualify for historic vehicle tax exemption, reducing annual fixed costs. Insurance groups for classic Land Rovers are typically manageable, though premiums vary based on the driver's profile.
Maintenance costs are the most unpredictable variable. While the mechanicals are simple, sourcing authentic parts for a 1953 model can be expensive and time-consuming. Expect higher-than-average annual spending on preventative maintenance to keep the vehicle roadworthy.
Pay close attention to the brake system; specifically, check the brake pedal pivot for the wear or free play noted in the May 2023 MOT advisory to see if it has been addressed. Inspect the chassis rails and cross-members for corrosion, as rust is a common issue for utility vehicles of this era.
Check all lubrication points and ensure the petrol system is sealed and free from leaks. Because MOT tests are basic safety checks, a thorough inspection of the gearbox and transfer box for unusual noise or play is highly recommended.
This green 1953 Land Rover has passed its two most recent MOT tests. The July 2024 test recorded no defects, following a May 2023 pass that noted a minor advisory regarding the brake pedal pivot. As a vehicle first registered in April 1953, it represents a significant piece of automotive history.
Aggregate data is unavailable for this specific year, but early Land Rovers are generally recognised for their simple, rugged mechanical design.
Reviewed by the IsItAGoodCar editorial team — Verified automotive analysis synthesized from official vehicle registries.
Data Sources
DVSA
Official MOT test logs & failure reasons
DVLA
Tax, registration & powertrain specs
Experian
Finance, stolen markers & total loss
AI Analysis
Historical fault & advisory patterns
Plate Neighbors
Batch Registration Neighbors (393U Series)
Vehicles registered in the same regional DVLA batch as 393UXJ.