1978 RANGE ROVER CLASSIC 'SUFFIX F' - ONE OWNER

This Range Rover Classic is a compelling example of the iconic 4x4, presented in very good condition, and having just a single private owner from new. It is powered by the 3.5-litre Buick-derived Rover V8 engine, producing around 135hp when new, with four-wheel drive via a four-speed manual transmission. The mileage from new is 148,995 km.

Finished in the classic hue of Sahara Dust, and fitted with tan upholstery and wool seat covers, this Range Rover was first registered on 4 September 1978, and it has been with the current owner ever since.

The car’s bodywork remains largely original, though the panels along the left-hand side did suffer from some damage in the past, and were subsequently repaired. Its Sahara Dust paint finish is in excellent condition today, having been resprayed, and the car has even scooped up two awards for its impressive presentation. The protective nudge bar and driving lights at the front are not original, but lend a more rugged look to this hugely capable off-roader.

Stepping inside, this Range Rover remains in remarkably good order for its age. The upholstery is all original, and the seat facings are undamaged thanks to being protected by seat covers from new. There are some small nicks and marks in the other interior trims, but nothing that would be described as significant wear. Its headlining was replaced in 2015. Beyond the factory specification, the vendor has also had an integrated air-conditioning system installed, as well as radio and GPS functions. There are no issues with any of the switches or controls, and no electrical faults.

The Range Rover Classic has been kept in excellent mechanical order, serviced frequently by its one and only owner, who is an automotive mechanic. The last scheduled maintenance was in October 2020 at 148,500 km, when the oil and filter were renewed, and new seals were fitted to the clutch master cylinder. It has received annual oil and filter changes, fresh coolant every three years, and other maintenance as required.

Various brake hoses were replaced in or around 2015, and it had new cooling hoses fitted in 2011. The car has two new water pumps in its life to date, the first in 1994 and the second in 2006. There is reported to be a slight whine in the transfer case, which has been the case for many years, and which has never caused a problem. The vendor also notes the presence of a second fuel tank to extend the touring range. All four wheels are fitted with Toyo Open Country tyres, which were put on the car around 1,500 km ago.

Accompanying the car is a set of original literature, safely stored in the glove box, which is shown in the photo gallery below. The original toolkit is also present, which has never been opened or used, along with the spare wheel, and the tyre pump still with its factory plastic cover.

This Range Rover Classic is an unmissable opportunity to acquire a stylish and sophisticated classic SUV directly from the first and only owner. It has evidently benefited from the custodianship of its automotive mechanic keeper, and is presented in excellent overall condition. These early models are increasingly sought-after for their interesting design features and simpler interiors, and this car remains highly original and unmolested. It would make a superb addition to any collection, and deserves to find a new home with an enthusiast who will keep up its regular care and maintenance.

The description of this auction lot is, to the best of the seller's knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Collecting Cars requests a range of detail about the lot from the seller, and performs a level of due diligence. However, bidders must satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description, and conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to a bid. Please see our Terms and Conditions for full details.

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.