Barn-find 1975 Range Rover originally owned by the Royal Family tipped to sell for £80,000
The classic 4x4 was locked away in a barn and fell into a state of disrepair - but after a restoration worth £60,000, it's expected to fetch a hefty sum at auction
A CLASSIC Range Rover which used to belong to the Royal Family has emerged for sale with an estimated £80,000 value.
The Lincoln Green Suffix D model entered the Royal household from new in 1975 and remained in the monarchy for several years before changing hands and being locked away in a barn.
The Windsors are known to be huge fans of the luxury off-roaders, with the Queen spotted driving them numerous times.
This particular vintage 4x4 was even factory fitted with special order full-length folding "websasto" sunroof, making it a real favourite of the Royals.
Having passed through a number of owners since its Royal days, the Range Rover was discovered by the current owner in a sorry state, hidden in a barn at a farm in Worcester in 2013.
After its famous past was confirmed by the British Heritage Museum, the new owner paid for an extensive refurbishment to bring it back to its best.
Noted Range Rover restorers, Twenty-Ten Engineering, spent nearly two years restoring it - costing a whopping £60,000.
The work included a full chassis, "nut and bolt" rebuild with the interior re-trimmed in cream leather with matching carpets.
It has now been put up for sale with Silverstone Auctions, who have given it a pre-sale estimate of between £70,000 and £80,000.
The powerful V8 will go under the hammer on July 21.
Arwel Richards, classic car specialist at Silverstone Auctions, said: "To get such a superbly restored early Range Rover is rare, but to get one with a verified Royal connection is even rarer.
"The Heritage Certificate states delivery to the Royal Household, we believe to Windsor Castle.
"Twenty-Ten Engineering are the industry leaders when it comes to Range Rover restoration and the car is a true survivor, having been found in a barn on a farm.
"With values of the very special early Range Rovers still high this car offers the new owner a considerable saving on restoration costs and comes with a lovely story."