Which Model Of Land Rover Appeared In The Original Version Of The Italian Job?

While the movie starring Michael Caine and Noel Coward is best known for featuring Minis, an important role was reserved for a Land Rover Series 2A.

The Land Rover, registration number BKO 686C, was obviously not chosen for its getaway vehicle credentials but rather its towing abilities. The Land Rover had a special tow winch attached and this was used in the movie to tow the bullion van through the Turin traffic. The actor, George Innes, who played Bill Bailey had to learn to drive for his scenes involving the 4 x 4. After shooting was finished, the Land Rover was purchased by one of the film crew and used in the St Albans area of Hertfordshire.

As testament to its hardiness, the Land Rover was the only vehicle to survive filming. All 16 Mini Coopers were trashed as were a number of Lancias and Fiats.

In the American remake of the film, a salute to the 2A workhorse of the original is made by the appearance of a Land Rover Defender at the start of the film when the heist team are betrayed by one of their number.

Add Comment

Report