Throughout the history of the automobile, few cars have been so influential as the Range Rover which arguably paved the way for the luxury SUVs that are so prevalent today.
Equally at home in the inner city as it is in the countryside, the versatility of the Range Rover almost knows no bounds and this relatively early 'Suffix F' example flaunts its timeless design beneath a fresh coat of Tuscan Blue paintwork. With restored mechanicals, this 1979 Range Rover drives exactly as Land Rover intended, utilising the legendary 3.5-litre V8 Rover engine.
The History and Paperwork
MOT exempt
Restoration work carried out by Keith Gott Land Rover and Bennington 4X4 centre
Stored inside since restoration work
New speedometer binnacle - (mileage estimated to be 121,000)
Numerous invoices detailing works carried out
The Interior
Mostly original and unrestored
New headlining
All electronic items functioning
Inside, this Range Rover is delightfully original, unusually showing little in the way of significant wear or damage. As a 1979 example, it retains a number of the desirable interior features from the earliest Suffix A cars.
The cloth seats present well with no significant tears or holes we could see. There is some missing trim in places, although the front seats do retain their original adjustable headrests. The thick carpets are coming away in places but have survived remarkably well when you consider the fact that Range Rovers are utility vehicles. The headlining is in lovely condition as it was replaced a couple of years ago. The early, hard dashboard appears free from UV damage and all the switchgear within works correctly. The vendor informs us that the speedometer was replaced during the renovation process and so the mileage shown is not original.
In the boot, there is a delightful level of patination to the steel plate which forms the back of the rear bench seat. The rear load area has also survived really well with a complete original carpet still covering the floor and wheel arches. The original spare wheel remains in place although the bottle jack has been lost at some point. There are small areas of discolouration as one would expect from a largely unrestored interior of this age. However, we feel that this patinated interior remains eminently usable and suits the utilitarian character of the Range Rover.
The Exterior
Repainted a few years ago
Tuscan Blue
Straight, original body panels
Having been resprayed a few years ago and used sparingly ever since, the exterior of this Range Rover presents very well. As a desirable 2 door model with painted steel bumpers, this Suffix F example has a similar appearance to the early cars and is very handsome as a result.
The Tuscan Blue paintwork is bright and smart, showing off the straight, original bodywork underneath. The vendor informs us that there is little evidence of significant past bodywork or welding, which is certainly in keeping with the condition of the original interior. We can see a little corrosion appearing on the inside edge of the upper ‘cat flap’ portion of the tailgate, although this is very prevalent on Range Rovers of this vintage.
The lower portion of the tailgate has been repainted inside and out along with the rest of the bodywork. It also appears to be straight which is unusual given the way Range Rovers are often utilised. This example also appears very sound and clean underneath and the silver painted bumpers appear smart with the exception of some small blemishes on the front. The original wheels are in good condition and a fair amount of tread remains on the tyres.
The Mechanics
Ample power
Functioning overdrive
Many restored components
During the vendor’s and the previous owner’s custodianship, the Range Rover has had the following mechanical work completed:
Stainless steel exhaust system fitted
Complete specialist gearbox rebuild
New rear brakes, discs and shock absorbers
Carburettor rebuild
New petrol tank fitted
New brake lines
Spark plugs and HT leads replaced
New head gaskets
Skimmed cylinder heads
New clutch
Electronic ignition
Mileage as displayed 121000 (estimated), the replaced odometer displays 22379
The vendor informs us that the aforementioned works totalled in excess of £5,000 and have resulted in the car driving exceedingly well, with functioning overdrive. The 3.5-litre Rover V8 runs well, sounding good through the new stainless steel exhaust and allowing this Range rover to accelerate eagerly. Assisted by new rear brakes and lines, the Range Rover comes to a stop in a confidence-inspiring straight line.
Summary
Having undergone significant mechanical work, this is a very usable example of the classic Range Rover.
With an interior that has survived well, the next owner is left with the option to use it as is, or restore. Freshly finished in Tuscan Blue, this car oozes elegance and character in equal measure and is sure to attract admiring gazes wherever it goes.
Notice to bidders
Although every care is taken to ensure this listing is as factual and transparent as possible, all details within the listing are subject to the information provided to us by the seller. Car & Classic does not take responsibility for any information missing from the listing. Please ensure you are satisfied with the vehicle description and all information provided before placing a bid.
As is normal for most auctions, this vehicle is sold as seen, and therefore the Sale of Goods Act 1979 does not apply. All bids are legally binding once placed. Any winning bidder who withdraws from a sale, is subject to our bidders fee charge. Please see our FAQs and T&C's for further information. Viewings of vehicles are encouraged, but entirely at the seller's discretion.
