Land Rover Range Rover Classic 3.5 V8 1973 review
SUV Petrol
Photo: Sicnag (CC BY 2.0), via Wikimedia Commons
Overview
The original Range Rover invented the luxury SUV - and the earliest three-door cars, built from 1970, are now blue-chip collectibles. With its 3.5-litre ex-Buick V8, permanent four-wheel drive and coil springs all round, the 1973 Classic could cross a ploughed field then cruise to London in comfort.
Early cars are spartan inside - vinyl seats, not leather - but that honesty is exactly what collectors love. Few classics combine investment potential with genuine everyday usability like an early Range Rover.
UK price from: £32,500
Specifications
| Engine | 3.5-litre V8 (3,528 cc) |
| Power | 135 bhp @ 4,750 rpm |
| Torque | 185 lb-ft @ 2,500 rpm |
| 0-60 mph | 13.3 seconds |
| Top speed | 100 mph |
| Fuel economy | ~14 mpg |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual (LT95) |
| Drive | Four-wheel drive |
| Production years | 1970-1996 |
| Kerb weight | 1,750 kg |
Features
- 3.5-litre Rover V8 - the engine that powered Britain
- Permanent four-wheel drive with locking centre differential
- Coil-sprung suspension - revolutionary in 1970
- Iconic three-door body by David Bache
- Hose-out vinyl interior on early cars
- The original luxury SUV - a recognised design icon
Common parts & prices
| Part | Price (GBP) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Front brake pad set | £40 | Standard road pads |
| Clutch kit | £180 | Heavy-duty V8 clutch kit |
| Exhaust system | £300 | Mild steel full system |
| Swivel pin kit | £90 | Per side, with seals |
| Water pump | £70 | V8 cooling service item |
| Propshaft UJ joint | £45 | Heavy-duty joint |
Pros
- Practical, usable and genuinely good off-road
- Early three-doors are appreciating strongly
- V8 soundtrack and effortless cruising
- Huge specialist and parts support
Cons
- Aluminium body hides a steel chassis that rots badly
- 14 mpg on a good day - budget accordingly
- Early trim is simple and some parts are scarce
- Restoration costs can exceed the car's value
Frequently asked questions
How much is an early Range Rover worth?
Early three-door 3.5 V8 cars in good condition sell for £25,000-£40,000, with exceptional suffix-A cars reaching £60,000-plus.
What is a suffix-A Range Rover?
Suffix letters denote model-year changes on early cars. Suffix-A (1972-73) cars are among the earliest and most collectible.
Where does the Range Rover Classic rust?
The steel chassis rots at outriggers, crossmembers and body mounts; steel inner panels corrode behind the aluminium skins. A galvanised chassis is a big plus.
Is the Rover V8 reliable?
Yes - the ex-Buick V8 is simple and long-lived if cooled properly. Check for slipped liners (overheating history) and cam wear.
Can I use an early Range Rover daily?
Absolutely - that is their appeal. Budget for 14 mpg and find a specialist, but they are practical, comfortable and easy to drive.
