michaelgroves
Explorer
Well, I finally did it - found a LWB diesel Geländewagen for sale, and took the plunge. It's the first one I've owned, and so far, I love it!
In comparison to the RRC's, Discoveries and even Defenders I've owned, it's palacial inside, with ample room legroom for rear seat passengers, even with the front seats as far back as they go. It is a much bigger vehicle than it looks, having the same wheelbase as a 110 Defender, and the use of space is very very good.
Mine's a RHD 300GD of 1984 vintage, with an indicated 60,000 miles on the clock. I suspect 160K or 260K is more likely, although the last 6 years MOT certificates show only around 1000 miles done each year.
It's not a rust bucket, and seems to be mechanically in good condition for itss age. The 4WD, low range and difflocks all seem to work properly, and the engine starts first time. The 3-litre naturally aspirated diesel has a reputation for lasting forever, but it's grossly underpowered. At 60mph, it feels like the engine is about to throw a conrod through the bonnet (it's a 4spd manual), although apparently 70mph is redline in top. Nor is torque great - she feels like she'd have difficulty pulling the skin off a rice pudding. My 6x6 Defender with a 300Tdi and an all-up weight of between 4 and 5 tons was more sprightly (I kid you not!). I doubt that fuel consumption will be favourable either.
IMO, the suspension is more comfortable than the Defender on rough ground, but not as comfortable as a Discovery 1 or 2, and a long way off a RRC. On the road, it's much nicer to drive than any of the above Land Rovers, because there's hardly any body roll. The noise inside the cabin at high speed (60!) is much worse than my 130.
I've not put her through her paces on any difficult stuff yet, but she can't fail to be impressive with the lockable diffs. They are definitely needed, because the suspension doesn't articulate nearly as well as the coil sprung Rovers. Lack of power might be an issue, especially as my impression is that low range is not very low. (I've not look up the gear ratios yet). I think I'll take the G and the 130 out to a play-day next Sunday.
The main impression I have is that she is as solid as a tank. It just exudes old-style Merc quality. What a great car, even being 25 years old!
In comparison to the RRC's, Discoveries and even Defenders I've owned, it's palacial inside, with ample room legroom for rear seat passengers, even with the front seats as far back as they go. It is a much bigger vehicle than it looks, having the same wheelbase as a 110 Defender, and the use of space is very very good.
Mine's a RHD 300GD of 1984 vintage, with an indicated 60,000 miles on the clock. I suspect 160K or 260K is more likely, although the last 6 years MOT certificates show only around 1000 miles done each year.
It's not a rust bucket, and seems to be mechanically in good condition for itss age. The 4WD, low range and difflocks all seem to work properly, and the engine starts first time. The 3-litre naturally aspirated diesel has a reputation for lasting forever, but it's grossly underpowered. At 60mph, it feels like the engine is about to throw a conrod through the bonnet (it's a 4spd manual), although apparently 70mph is redline in top. Nor is torque great - she feels like she'd have difficulty pulling the skin off a rice pudding. My 6x6 Defender with a 300Tdi and an all-up weight of between 4 and 5 tons was more sprightly (I kid you not!). I doubt that fuel consumption will be favourable either.
IMO, the suspension is more comfortable than the Defender on rough ground, but not as comfortable as a Discovery 1 or 2, and a long way off a RRC. On the road, it's much nicer to drive than any of the above Land Rovers, because there's hardly any body roll. The noise inside the cabin at high speed (60!) is much worse than my 130.
I've not put her through her paces on any difficult stuff yet, but she can't fail to be impressive with the lockable diffs. They are definitely needed, because the suspension doesn't articulate nearly as well as the coil sprung Rovers. Lack of power might be an issue, especially as my impression is that low range is not very low. (I've not look up the gear ratios yet). I think I'll take the G and the 130 out to a play-day next Sunday.
The main impression I have is that she is as solid as a tank. It just exudes old-style Merc quality. What a great car, even being 25 years old!