Answering customer requests for a vehicle to transport larger, heavier objects while utilizing its existing 109 inch wheelbase, Land Rover launched this cab-forward option in 1962. (edit:) “Land Rover Santana” models were built by Santana in Spain, and Santana split entirely from Land Rover after 1989, as per Wikipedia. This 1974 Land Rover Santana 1300 Forward Control model in Bridgeport, Connecticut runs and drives, as demonstrated in a driving video and listing on Facebook Marketplace. The Left-Hand-Drive classic can be yours for $18,500. Thanks to Bonhams and Winwaed for some details, and to reader T.J. for spotting this unusual Landy.

A profile view readily demonstrates the utility of the Forward Control design, with the compact use of space up front delivering a longer cargo bed. While Land Rover’s aluminum body panels can corrode, they don’t rust in the ways that destroy steel panels in short order. We might surmise that rings protruding from the front wheels serve as a step into the cab. The right front ring shows damage in other pictures, enough so to complicate accessing at least one lug nut. Larger wheels and tires resulted in greater ground clearance than regular Land Rovers. A four-inch wider track added stability, and a unique rear sub-frame resulted in a flat cargo floor.

It’s all form before function inside, with a priority placed on durability. With the engine under your forearm, drivers ignoring exhaust or fuel leaks could pay a heavy price.

Engine details escaped the listing, but it’s probably the gasoline-powered 2.6L inline six cylinder powerplant adapted from the Rover car line and known for its reliability. Like the rest of the vehicle, the engine appears to have soldiered on while dodging cosmetic restoration. Turning this cargo-carrying beast into a museum piece feels wrong, though it’s unlikely to be pressed into daily service either. Vintage Land Rovers are not always prized for their reliability, but I’d trust this one over a model from the late ’80s to mid 2000s. You can’t say this one isn’t sturdy; that’s at least 1/8 inch steel in the base for the gear shifter. Have you ever seen a Forward Control Land Rover on the road?