Land Rover Range Rover 1981
  • Economy

    Value

    5 out of 5 5.0

    I don't think you can get more car for your money 2nd hand. Plenty of choice so search well for a bargain - lots of hopefuls looking for serious money. Don't bother with anything without LPG - its the only way to make running costs sensible.

    Costs

    3 out of 5 3.0

    18mpg isn't great, but reasonable if you have LPG. Parts prices are variable, some bits are pennies, some thousands and you can never predict. Strong enthusiast following- 2nd hand spares are plentiful.

  • On the road

    Driving

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Rangies are a bit strange - sports cars they aren't, but once you get used to the strangeness, they are pretty astounding. The ride is VERY comfortable, and the handling, for an offroader, pretty inspiring on tarmac, and astounding off-road!

    Performance

    4 out of 5 4.0

    On road, its no sportscar but as a big exec it goes and handles well - and LPG doesn't knock too much of the edge of. Off road, they are simply peerless

  • Living with it

    Reliability

    2 out of 5 2.0

    I don't expect it to be sealed for life like a VW, but even so they do need a fair bit of fettling - major bits are pretty durable though, and they can be pretty good if given enough attention.

    Image

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Classic look is a bit 'tired' and sometimes a bit clichéd now, but it's still a 'universal vehicle' that doesn't look out of place at the opera, or in a barn or dragging a trailer load of rubble!

    Comfort

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Brilliant upright driving position, with great visibility and plenty of appointments. Back seats are a bit cramped for long journeys though - for a big car it has about as much rear seat passenger space as a small family saloon like an escort!

  • Security and Service

    Security

    1 out of 5 1.0

    If the tail gate locks....... it isn't that brilliant!

    Service

    2 out of 5 2.0

    I don't use franchise dealers! I cant afford the labour or the parts prices!

  • Problems and Ownership

    Problems

    Engine

    Very sweet.

    Other

    Steering, suspension and axles all have or will need attention - par for the course for a car of this type and age. Easily fixed though, and not too expensive using 2nd hand parts where costs prohibit.

    Ownership

    Did you buy the car new?

    Used

    Would you buy the same model again?

    Yes

    Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?

    Yes