Description

The Austin Gipsy SWB Series 4 represented the final evolution of Austin’s answer to the Land Rover, refined for durability, performance, and off-road ability. Introduced in the late 1960s, the Series 4 kept the short wheelbase configuration (around 90 inches), which made it nimble and well-suited for rural work, military duties, and rugged terrain.

It retained the Gipsy’s distinctive all-independent suspension with Flexitor rubber springs—a standout feature compared to the leaf-sprung competition. This suspension gave the Gipsy excellent articulation and a smoother ride in off-road conditions, setting it apart from many utilitarian 4x4s of the time. It also kept the steel body construction with flat panels, making it tough, easy to repair, and resistant to damage in harsh environments.

Under the hood, Series 4 models were often powered by either a 2.2-litre petrol engine or a torquey diesel variant, depending on the market and intended use. These engines were not particularly fast but were known for reliability and pulling power—crucial in the farming, forestry, and military roles it often filled.

The Series 4 saw incremental improvements in reliability and serviceability, and though visually similar to earlier versions, it featured upgraded drivetrain components and more robust differentials. Optional extras included a hardtop, canvas roof, and rear bench seating, allowing for more flexibility in configuration.

Despite its strengths, the Gipsy never quite managed to dethrone the Land Rover in popularity, especially given BMC’s eventual merging with Leyland, which owned Rover. This political and industrial overlap meant that the Gipsy was eventually phased out in favor of Land Rover’s Series vehicles. Still, the Gipsy Series 4 remains an interesting and underappreciated piece of British off-road history—rugged, rare, and a solid performer.