range rover p38 96-02

Jul 28, 2008
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My father had a 1997 2.5 DSE auto which was only a few months old when he bought it. In standard form it was quite thirsty (24-35 solo) and was pretty gutless. The LR dealer fitted a tuning box to it which transformed the car in every way - more economical, a lot more responsive, and held gears much better. Sadly, although everyone banged on about BMW's reliability and build, he had all kinds of failures - engine fan viscous coupling, both rear suspension air bags, corroded oil cooler union allowing fluid to leak all over, an exhaust system which fell to pieces (literally) after three years. He hung on to it until 2002. He still says that had it been more reliable he'd possibly still have it now.
The air suspension is brilliant for towing (I have it on my current car), although the Range Rover you're looking at is a bit "old school" in the way that it drives - rather wallowy, vague steering etc. However, if you get a good one I'm sure you'll be pleased. The 4.0 litre V8 with an LPG conversion is supposed to be the best of the bunch
 
Aug 9, 2010
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I've run V8, lpg, air suspended Range Rover classics for 7 years, and whilst the air can be expensive to repiar if it does go wrong, imo its worth it for the wonderful ride and towing capability.
 
Aug 5, 2010
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Hi
Had my heart set on P38 diesel a few years ago, did plenty of research before finaly finding one at a main dealers. Went for a test drive and to say I was disapointed was an understatment. The diesel lump was so underpowered even solo, dread to think what it would have been like with 1800kg on its tail. Oyther thing that I noticed was the auto box, whilst it may just have been the car I was testing the box felt sluggish and gear changes were jerky. On the positive side the suspension was lovely. Did took a look at a V8 but fuel consumption was beyond my wallet.
Still hanker after a Range Rover although it will be a later model.
 

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