Michael Bishop & 260AC
Historian, Author, Presenter, driver & R16 1948 Land Rover Pre Production aka 260AC
The Story
260AC — A Living Piece of History
260AC, registered HNX 331, is one of the rarest vehicles in existence — a 1948 pre-production Land Rover, designated R16, built before the model was officially launched to the world at the Amsterdam Motor Show.
As one of fewer than 50 pre-production examples known to survive, it represents an irreplaceable chapter in British automotive history, preserved and driven by Michael Bishop.
This is not a museum piece. It is a working vehicle, a research subject, and a living connection to the origins of one of the world's most enduring automotive legends.
Michael Bishop
Roles & Expertise
Historian
Researching and documenting the origins of the Land Rover, with a focus on pre-production and early Series vehicles.
Author
Writing authoritative works on Land Rover history, drawing on primary sources and first-hand research.
Presenter
Sharing the story of 260AC and early Land Rover heritage at events, shows, and media appearances.
Driver
Keeping 260AC on the road — driving, maintaining, and experiencing this 1948 pre-production vehicle as it was intended.