1973 RANGE ROVER CLASSIC SUFFIX B

This Range Rover Classic is an outstanding example of the desirable early ‘Suffix B’ model, which is presented in superb condition following a total restoration. Under the bonnet is a 3.5-litre Buick-derived Rover V8 engine, producing around 135hp when new, which is coupled to the four-speed manual transmission with Fairey overdrive.

A rare Australian delivered example, this Suffix B Range Rover was built in February 1973 - confirmed by the heritage certificate that accompanies the car - and was finished in the vibrant Tuscan Blue colour. During the body-off restoration, it was completely stripped back, with the chassis sandblasted back to bare metal, and any rust cut out of the inner structure and repaired. The car was then repainted in the original Tuscan Blue, and fitted with a set of freshly restored Rostyle wheels. The restoration was carried out by the engineer vendor, with the assistance of a few marque specialists.

Its interior was restored to an equally high standard, with the ‘KitKat’ seats - so-named because the fluted finish resembles the fingers of the chocolate bar - removed and strippped, and with the seat frames sandblasted and repainted in their original colours. All of the fittings were re-plated, and the seat frames and cushions were refinished in the smart Palomino upholstery.

Today, the car presents in genuinely pristine condition, with no scuffs or chips in the Tuscan Blue coachwork, and with crisp shut lines and panel gaps. All of the body trims are in great shape, enhancing this Range Rover’s period-correct appearance. The vendor states that a significant investment was made in sourcing new lights, rubber seals, and a fuel tank, plus myriad other items, and they all present superbly, with no damage or wear. Its Rostyle wheels are in very good condition, and the photos of the underside at the end of the gallery illustrate the remarkably clean chassis, driveline and suspension.

Inside, the main seat cushions and carpets present in showroom-quality condition, with beautifully finished Palomino upholstery for the former, and with the latter well fitted around the controls and footwells. To retain some charming originality in the cabin, the steering wheel and dashboard are understood to be the factory-fitted items, and the headrests are also older items, showing just a hairline split in the driver’s side cover. Its seat belts, handbrake grip and gear shifter are also believed to be original, and have a handsome patina. The headlining has evidently been replaced, and is in superb condition. The refurbished air-conditioning blows icy cold, and the rest of the switchgear is also reported to work as it should. The only foibles noted are faulty dash lights for the differential lock and handbrake.

As part of the restoration, the 3.5-litre Rover V8 was tested and found to have good compression, so was overhauled with new seals, a replacement water pump, fresh spark plugs and ignition leads, new belts, and core plugs. The carburettors were also stripped and rebuilt. Its gearbox was found to be in good order, so was resealed and reinstalled. Since the overhaul, the car has covered just 300km, and has received new fluids and filters.

The car received a safety check in August 2020, which resulted in no warning or alerts. The only note from the vendor is that there are a few minor oil leaks from the gearbox. The wheels are fitted with a fresh set of Dunlop SP Road Gripper tyres, which are in excellent condition.

Accompanying the car is the aforementioned heritage certificate, as well as a good history file documenting the restoration, including extensive photography of various stages. The tool kit and jack are stored in the clips on the side of the boot area, and is in superb order.

This Range Rover Classic ‘Suffix B’ is a wonderfully restored example of the iconic British 4x4, which has been refurbished to remain as close as possible to the original factory specifications and appearance. It boasts a desirable colour scheme and Fairey overdrive, and the quality of the restoration work shines through in the photo gallery below. This would be a fine addition to any collection, and would no doubt prove a charming car for fair weather cruising and road trips.

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This vehicle’s VIN has been checked against the Australian Personal Property Securities Register, and there is no security interest or other registration kind logged against the serial number. This vehicle has been checked through the Austroads NEVDIS system, and there are no markers under the written-off or stolen databases.