We had a red with tan cloth ‘96 series 1 with a 5 speed that we bought new in CT. It was the basic model (SE?), so no sunroofs or any of that, but we got a bunch of ridiculously expensive accessories like the bull bar, safari rack and rear ladder. Never upgraded the tires and didn’t have anything that you couldn’t by from Land Rover. The transmission sucked on the road, there are no two ways around it. However, the ride was actually pretty good and offroad that thing was unstoppable. We took it all over New England, drove it out to Chicago and Northern Michigan a number of times and even took a multi-week trip to Colorado for friends’ wedding before moving out to CA when it ultimately got traded for a Discovery 2 when the kids started coming (more on that). We drove on beaches, rocky trails (with Jeeps), mud, snow and a couple of Land Rover events. I can highly recommend the series 1 with a 5 speed for off road use. I can only imagine how unstoppable it would have been with a little after market gear. I remember when my wife was the only female driver at a Land Rover event to balance on the teeter totter - and they were shocked when they realized we had the only manual vehicle other than the guy with the Defender who practically wrecked a couple of times because he stopped listening after, “as fast as . . . .” We ended up having two different Disovery 2s and we had no end of electrical problems with both of them (when we gave up on Land Rover). The series 1 was agrarian and had some electrical bugs, but was mechanically bulletproof over 75K miles with us and I’d bet that thing is still chugging along out there somewhere. I may yet try and get myself another one if I can find one that has the 5 speed and hasn’t had the crap beaten out of it.
There's just something about land rovers. Love them forever. Weirdly they seem to be totally reliable on the trail but on the other hand you could be just cruising on the highway and have the alternator decide it's time for an early retirement. Quirky vehicles but there's something special about them
James Wisrik Yeah you have to plan financially to own one, but if you’re able to cover the costs I’d say it’s a great vehicle to own especially if you’re mechanically inclined
@James Wisrik I find it easy to keep mine up. Not much goes wrong. And the normal stuff is easy to fix. If you're at least a shade tree mechanic you'll have no problem up keeping one. Three amigos is a very cheap and easy fix. Alot of times it's a bad solder joint in the abs module. Just cut the brown wire to the shuttle valve switch, run one to a ground and one to the yellow wire to the plug and problem solved. The shuttle valve seals are also easy to fix. Other than that, get a 180 degree thermostat from a td5, upgrade your head bolts to studs and dont overheat it and it will be fine.
The ride in off road is superb, the v8 purring , how flex in rocks, the Alpine windows, and in some cases the manual trans... Sorry your diesel japan thing probably last more... But for enjoy is very boring. Still love some P38 or ZJ 5.2 or 5.9
The 4.0 and the 4.6 have the same bore size. The common theories about why the 4.6's have slipped liners more often than the 4.0's is that the tooling was worn out, and that for emissions, the engines ran a hotter thermostat. Also, when land rover went from a "3.9" to a "4.0" (they were actually the same bore size) they added block ribbing, and cross bolted main caps. This made the blocks a lot more sturdy.
My Disco 2, purchased new, was a great vehicle once the dealer (under warranty) replaced just about everything electrical, the leaking windshield, the transmission, the..... i did love driving it, however, and modified it with a 2” OME lift, lockers front and rear, ARB bumper with a 12.5k winch, etc. it worked extremely well off road. Alas, replaced it with a new Land Cruiser.
I bought a D1 98MY (one of the very last) with 300tdi as standard, a dual Battery from factory and added a 2inch lift. Definitely slow but it's got so much torque it pulls my camper trailer just about anywhere and it climbs like a tractor. I've seen obstacles on your videos that look a like ones I've faced and I don't think I ever needed to use the centre locking differential. About the same time my friend had bought a D2 and he was constantly having to grapple with airbags. I could never understand why ppl would want to rely on electronics in off-road conditions
Meant to add... electronics for traction control etc. I made that remark to my land rover mechanic and he said that about 70 per cent of their work on newer model Land Rovers is doing just that. I have also heard that the TD5s have a bit of a reliability issue. I had a water pump go and I had to put in a second hand transmission and do a few bushes which wasn't super cheap but for what I paid for the truck it's really been great and I agree the stadium seating is a lot of fun. And now it seems they're becoming desirable again for all these reasons. But anybody got a tip on how to deal with saggy headliners hmu.
The first Disco 2's came out in 1998, here in the UK anyway. The first one I ever saw was a dark blue one, and it was love at first sight when I saw it. 4 years later, managed to get the facelifted model in top trim and Td5 engine. And its still with me to this very day. Fun fact, subtle as it was there were over 700 changes between the Disco 1 and 2.
I have had my discovery 2 for 2 years now the most expensive part of ownership has been running premium gas in the thirsty girl. If you do your own work and avoid the dealership for repairs it’s not bad at all. The character of the vehicle and hitting the trails in style are totally worth it to me. Looking to get a Range Rover Classic someday too.
Just to point out, the visual similarity between the S1 and S2 Discoveries wasn't just down to funds. LR surveyed their existing customers, many of whom had already bought more than one new Discovery, to assess their (at the time, our) views on styling and received the clear message that we liked the look just fine. They actually shared no external body panels so still involved the cost of new tooling and some door panels moved from Aluminium to steel. Inside the most obvious difference was the seating - 7 forward facing seats with head restraints and 3-point seatbelts - very different from what had gone before. That was also the point at which UK models had airbags fitted as standard. Here in the UK, LR's home market, the big news was the new diesel engine (V8s are a bit of a novelty here really - fun but expensive - the vast majority of UK Discoveries were diesel). The Td5 was a much smoother, more refined 5-cylinder engine than the 4-pot 300 Tdi although both 2.5 litre. There was a modest power increase too. And no, contrary to popular belief, it wasn't a BMW unit but a full in-house development, unlike the TD4 fitted to Freelanders. We were initially put off by its increased use of control electronics but it has proved to be reasonably robust, also fitted to Defenders long after the Discovery 2 had been replaced. These Discoveries are the family cars I grew up with through the 90s and into the early 2000s, part-exchanging every 2-3 years. In 2003 we bought our last Disco, in 2004 we looked at the new Discovery 3s and just didn't like them enough to warrant the price increase. In 2005 we bought a Defender instead (110 County Station Wagon with luxury appointments such as carpets, cloth seats and a cassette player). I bought it from my Dad in 2009, when he decided he preferred our old D90 for local commuting while I was doing regular motorway journeys. I'm still driving the 110 every day. Dad's still driving a 90 (not the same one - that accidentally demolished a granite wall a few years ago so was retired from service).
Camel Trophy Land Rovers were factory build from the bare ladder frame. They got stronger parts like Maxidrive shafts, CVs, 24 splines etc... Stock Discovery 1/RRC diffs got only two spider gears. Not four. Camels got additional guards, integral rollcages and more. But i own Discovery 200 TDI, and i loves it. Even if it brokes 700km from home, it could back on his own wheels whitout 5th gear.
@@RockmanDash Well not really. I was around 93 and 92 model whit new axle sleve like in later 300tdi... in the 93r model 200tdi, you can change the 10 milling shaft to 24, along with a new differential from 300tdi. Because the axle housing is the same as the newer type in 300tdi. I got this year model whit new axle housing but still only 10 splines inside.
We had a Discovery 2 that was bought brand new. Had a lot of issues unfortunately and ditched it in place of an 08 Hummer H3. The H3 hasn’t given me any major problems so far since we got it brand new. Still think the older Discoveries are cool though!
Love my 2004 facelift TD5, 7 seat, bought it 11yrs ago with 31,000 miles on it, now covered just shy of 200,000! Re mapped, and with a better inter cooler (and completely dump the EGR system, and pipework), pulls well, and on long runs can return 40mpg!!
Here in the UK i bought a RR classic as my first car when i was 17 for £800. That was 15 odd years ago and recently i saw my old rr for sale on ebay for 31k?!
I’d like to have a Discovery based on looks, but I would want a Ford 4.9L I6 or 302 V8, preferably a straight 6, and a Ford transmission and wiring harness. I’d even go for a 350 Chevy or 318 Dodge and their respective transmissions and wiring harnesses as well, just to be able to get parts at the local auto parts shop or junkyard, and have better reliability. I’ve always wanted one, but they always need more than they’re worth just to be roadworthy and pass inspection. I don’t have the resources for a swap, but maybe one day. I don’t doubt that they will be in demand and prices will go up, I just saw a $10K Bronco II that has 120K miles on CL, so anything can happen. Prices are getting crazy for old used up 4WDs
I was just thinking the same thing. When Tommy was talking about the issues with the 4.6 motor, I thought "why not just rip out that 4.6 and throw a Chevy 350 small block with a 700R4 automatic or a stick shift in it's place. Plenty of power and way more reliable"
I6 will never fit. The v8 is a tight fit. There is a company in Ohio who makes a kit to drop the Chevy LS5300 in. If this engine ever dies, that will be the route I will take
I have a 5speed 1995 300tdi disco 1 thats imported from Spain, i was thinking about selling it but maybe ill hang on to it abit longer ;) I’ve been through some tough canadian trails with it and its never let me down!
great little video. On a different topic, can you share the locations you are illustrating in the 7:45-9:10 mark? It looks like Colorado and I'm asking because I'm moving to colorado in Feb 2021 and want to start compiling some trails and routes to explore once I get there. I'm on All Trails. Thanks!
the bore was only changed from the 3.5 to 3.9 all the other bore sizes are the same. It was the stroke that changed. So they did not keep getting thinner and thinner between the cylinders. just saying.. take care
I like the land rover line with the base model defender, the mid range discovery, and the top of the line range rover. Nowadays the range rover, the discovery, and the new defender are all just technology filled luxury SUVs. The new defender is a luxury SUV. It was the last classic land rover.
Really enjoying these "Here's Why" series of videos. Please do one on BMWs? In particular X5 (E53) and 5-series (E39). They are the last of the true driver cars BMW made. Before all the electronic display crap came along.
I had a 1998 land rover discovery series 1 when I lived in the AK bush. Absolute trash pile. Over the course of 5 months I replaced -rebuilt heads/head gasket -fuel injectors -timing cover and gasket -water pump -oil pan gasket -alternator -starter ABSOLUTE SHITBOX VEHICLE But damn it looks cool- TBH just buy a land cruiser
The good looking land cruisers arent sold here, ehich is why it sucks that land rovers were so crappy. They improved recently, but lr4 is still expensive and still not very reliable, and lr5 just doesn’t look cool anymore.
Hey guys love the classics especially the wide range of vehicles u choose . Eclatic ones are really cool to see . Can you guys try and find a Isuzu rodeo or trooper these where great off roaders and work horses shame they left the us for non-commercial vehicles .
The Rover V8 may be inspired in design by the Buick, but it definitely isn't the Buick engine. The "Rover V8 is actually a Buick V8" statement is so widely spread that people now believe\state it as "fact". Although Land Rover, etc. have made statements about this on multiple occasions, this "fact" has remained. A persistent little bugger.
@@libertyts Buick sold the design and all the tooling to the UK for their All Aluminum V8 in 1961... It is not fiction but fact and nobody is trying to hide that fact. It may have evolved over time...but make no mistake, that was a Buick engine
Series 1 had full floating axles, 2 did not. 2 was 3" wider as well and used P38 axles. Watts link rear suspension?? Series 1 used 4 link rears. Radius arm front. Edited: Series II does use Watts, series 1 does not.
@@troymortimer3487 Your right... I haven't had a SII for 8 years. I recall my 99' having the same upper A-arm design, it was a SII not a late I... But looking at the diagrams it shows a Watts...
The 4.6 is better again. The longevity the earlier 3.9 in the D1 was unbeatable before core shift problems got the V8 on the production line. The D2 cooling system ran the V8's too hot for my liking but that was an easy fix...removing the 3 way thermostat and using a 75c top hose thermostat. The cooling system itself is very good. Cheers
Land Rover owned two 4.6 before great power lots of torque but wasn’t reliable. The 4.0 v8 was the most reliable best fuel efficiency v8 I owned. I mean I have the disco 4.0 v8 and an xj 4.0 i6 and I love the both great off roaders
@@paolonakad734 Pablo the 4.6 was only a stroked 4.0. The bore was the same. Towards the latter years of the 4.0/4.6 they realised they has issues on the production line and tested the wall thickness of the castings with ultrasound and preferences the thickest walls to the 4.6's (according to.Des Hammel's book on powertuning the Rover V8). I had a 4.0 in my D2 from new and replaced with a 4.6 a few years ago. Both great motors but I love the torque of the 4.6 and it chewed less fuel towing and when laden. Didn't chew more fuel empty but my D2 is heavy even when empty. Cheers
People shouldn't expect a small brand like LR to have the reliability and development levels of the 2nd largest manufacturer Toyota. Just buy a Lcruiser instead of commenting on Disco videos on RUclips, if it means that much to you .
I love Land Rover products overall but they sure are garbage. I mean, they are exceptionally appealing and exceptionally crappy. Yes, our family has owned several. They are awesome and they are also infuriating. Buyers beware but be prepared to also still like it somehow even if it fux you all the time.
Yeah... Maintaining this machines was easy and cheap, the only thing required was.... Never use them, leave it on the garage..for years...and Wow this keep them cheap to maintain.
My Disco 2's throttle position sensor failed on the way to work. I managed to get it there by switching of and on the ignition. Thought i could get it home after work using the same technique. Sadly not. Still got me the 12 miles home though! On tickover. I guess that must mean i'm part of the 10%... lol
Great video, Just spent the morning doing some work on my early discovery 1 while on corona lockdown here in New Zealand. Love the discovery 1 will never sell it. To work everyday, up mountains and through mud and rivers it does it all, great vehicle.
Might wanna get some spare parts built up in a bin with some oil and antifreeze. I'd say the same for any vehicle that could go off the beaten path but particularly Land Rovers. I love them. I have two and have owned 6. They never fail to fail.
I have a 97 Discovery 1 with the 300TDi Turbo Diesel motor with a 5 speed manual. It's a shame you didn't get the diesel over there. Not a fast car by any means but more than enough torque for offroading and very reliable and have such a unique sound to them! I do enjoy driving my Disco with that commanding high seating position.
there is so much content on the discovery. in Aus there is a very knowledgeable group AURLO. which has technical anwser for everything. heaps of vid on RUclips for mechanic servicing. lots of upgrades available still. all of issues Tommy talked about have all been identifed and have ways of rectifying it. if you do it your self and take your time, you will get through it. Don't by a LR and get a shop to do the work as it will cost more than what you buy the car for. The disco2 is the last of the mechanical discos. LR3 are electronic city. which is good and bad.....
I've off roaded in a ton of different vehicles and I think and feel like rovers climb the best out of them all..... I love my disco 1 with the 300 tdi conversion!
Just picked up a '98 Discovery 1 for a cheap second overland rig for the wife. What a cool rig it is, but I'm learning quite a bit about fixing other people's maintenance neglect--my driveway looks like someone parked the Exxon Valdez on it! It's stupid simple to work on though, and I'm actually feeling confident to tackle the head gaskets next weekend!
I got my 03 Disco TD5 over 14 years ago , and still drive it today and love it! I drive modern 4x4's in my work , they may be quicker and more powerful, but they don't have the style or nice drivability of my Disco! ANd they break down too! Cheers Gregg.
How did I miss this video? Super informative. I loved the way you presented the history, Tommy. I'm looking at adding a dedicated off road vehicle within next year. TFL's Disco and LR3 testing has convinced me to start looking in that direction. Thanks.
My Discovery Series I runs fine with 100k miles. I just love my LR. 150% reliable. Just follow the schedule mantainance. The Landie will run forever. :) I will not replace it. Mint condition int/ext.
4 or 5 grand? in australia v8 worth about 4 or 5 hundred. diesel though that's wheres the moneys at Maybe a $1000 .... Seriously though a manual turbo diesel 4wd for a $1000 they're a good buy if you're mechanically inclined
Although it is a few years since I watched this video, after watching it and Nathan and Nathan today, l now understand why l bought a 1994 Discovery 5spd two years ago. I'm still loving it. Thanks guys.
I’ve crossed the Simpson Desert (Australia) in a series 1 MK2. 1100 sand dunes. 5 days to cross. Took 6 extra 10 litre fuel cans, but I could have done it on just the tank alone. Very able vehicle and the diesel was very fuel efficient for the period. 2001. Best 4x4 I’ve had. Followed by a long wheelbase Defender. The worst 4x4 I ever had!!
There are 1999 Discovery 1's...I know, I own one. Also, a part of the Discovery history is the Honda Crossroads which was essentially a LR Disco with Honda badging...Great video though! Very informative.
Hi I am a land rover owner and yes they all come with their different problems but the discos inner steel body and chassis can rot spectacularly especially if you live in a country where salt is used on the roads in winter, but bear in mind we are talking about vehicles 15 to 30 years old, if you buy one learn to weld first.
Love your videos. You should do a comparison between all your classics SUVs: the XJ, the Discovery and the ML. Also, you should consider adding an old MB Gwagon to your menu.
The common refrain in my large metropolitan area is, “Don’t dance with the Disco!”, meaning the LR Discovery. Most have been poorly maintained and run into the ground and little recommended maintenance.
I live in a rural area that is about 100 miles from the third largest city in the country, I've found that generally buying any older used vehicle from "city people" is a bad idea.
Got a 97 SE7 with 4.0 and manual transmission.Cross Canada with it on is 20th year and still live with a regular diet of snow ,gravel and mud...I love my old beast!
The three amigos are usually fixed by changing the shuttle valve ( a separate part) that is easily changed and costs about £60, about 7 small bolts, working from under the abs box which doesn't need the brake lines undoing even, the are long enough to unclip, easy
RRC has better forward view for tall people than the Disco one. Even though the glass is the same the headliner covers a small strip at the top of the windshield on the Disco. This seems insignificant to most but if you use that strip, like I do, it is very noticeable.
@@patrickmason6971 Both have pretty iconic silhouettes, the raised roof on the Disco is shared with nothing else. Unfortunately Ford has been busy cribbing from the RR shape the past 15 years
The series 1 Disco is the best cars I have ever owned. I drive the V8 model now and I have had a 4 cilinder deisel for 10 years and have had a 86 range rover. But I have owned a later virsion but as soon as cars started getting filled with electronics the less reliable the vehicles became
Interesting US points of view. All I can add to this discussion is that I live in the UK, in Wales in fact. I'm 70, I've had and used Land Rovers of all kinds over the years and I simply don't recognise the stories of low reliability that come out of the USA, The only thing that differs perhaps is that most British/European/ rest of the world Discoveries, and in fact most Landrovers of any kind, since the introduction of the bullet proof Tdi diesel engines, are diesel. Why would anyone want a petrol/gas engine ? The prejudice in the USA for gas power is because of cheap gas and a misunderstanding of small diesel engines, and a misunderstanding of how power functions in a vehicle like a Land Rover. Sorry Americans, yout prejudice against small diesels is your loss. Currently I own a 1996 Discovery 1 Tdi. It develops a whacking great 113 bhp. Don't know what that is in American, but it's about the same as Mini. So what's the design thinking then ? Well it's the difference between gas and diesel. High torque at low revs and the most competent and versatile manual transmission even compared with the high tec stuff Land Rover produces today.. My 24 year old Disco, that's the familiar nomenclature this side of the Atlantic, will tow quite a bit more than the official 4 ton rating, is the next best thing to a track laying vehicle off road, is almost infinitely repairable, delivers an average of 29 mpg, including off road and towing (35 mpg on the highway) and frankly has been at least as reliable as any of the great many vehicles I've operated since 1967. On top of that it's a lovely comfortable drive on and off road. It's worth more than I paid for it six years ago too.
I have never had a Land Rover before, and just got a 1997 Land Rover Discovery for a few hundred dollars that actually looks and runs well. I'm looking forward to restoring it. Although I'm confused because the 4.0 engine doesn't look like if has a round distributor cap in the rear of the engine. I think I just need to crawl up there and take a closer look!
Tommy, TFL talks a lot about Jeeps and Land Rover. What is the best all around model from each in your opinion and why? And which of those 2 would you rather have?
Too bad the LR diesels engines weren't sold in Defender and disco in USA, as they were in the UK, LR would have a very different USA reputation for reliability. TDi, TD5 are solid. 'Merica likes V8s apparently!
Great video!!! I sold a 95 Disco a couple years ago due to blown headgaskets, slipped liner. I loved it like my loyal 5yr old Labrador. For the cost of a used replacement engine I purchased a clean low mileage 04 Grand Cherokee WJ 4.7L V8, 4" long arm lift on 33's, it's just as capable but more reliable. I will always miss my Disco but love my WJ.
If your Willing to spend the money they can be Made to be relible. Just better be willing to spend the money $$$$$$$$. I rember waching some of the challeges on tv It was amazing to see where they go..
Great review, I have had 4 Land Rover products, 2 classic Range Rovers, a Defender TD5 and now a Disc 2 facelift, this has been the best all rounder. My facelift D2 has the 4.0 V8 and runs perfect. Yes it's not used and abused off road, and it does need looking after and if you are an old school DIY mechanic, checking and tinkering with the car then it ticks all the boxes. My Defender was the worst drivers car out there, but I loved it the best, sold it for more than I paid 4 years earlier. Land Rovers have a unique character and once under the skin you can't live without one. I am not sure about ones newer than 2005, but no doubt one day will have to make the jump. But for now my 2004 D2 will be around for many years to come.
Disagree. I had first gen disco and it was the biggest POS I’ve ever owned. I’ve owned around 15 vehicles in my life. I loved the disco but the disco loved my pocketbook. The interior was nice, the look was cool, the dual sunroofs and high up seating was the best. It had tons of tons of issues during my 3 year ownership period and left me stranded countless times. Awful, absolutely awful
As the owner of a mostly stock and mostly pristine 03, I think you will find that the few that are still out there are the ones that were put together right and loved. I have had mine for almost 8 years now. Brakes, shocks, springs, headliner, and of course, a new engine (with top hatted cylinder liners to keep them from ever slipping again) and all is well. Except for the engine, it has been very trouble free all these years. I did see the three amigos, but that was the ABS sensors and easily repaired when I did the brakes. My biggest deviation from stock: The rear steel bumper. One aspect of the high mounted tails I hate is that when people are not paying 100% attention, they notice them a bit late. I replaced the stock bumper twice due to "love taps" and finally bit the bullet and bought a steel expedition bumper as it was cheaper and stronger. Great trucks if you take care of them, nightmares if you don't. I get a lot of compliments and people making offers, but I love my truck too much.
It's all about the D1. Get a well maintained '96/'97 that wasn't abused. You'll fall in love. The bad reputation comes from the D2, which was a disaster waiting to happen for a variety of reasons, especially at their initial price point. The D1 is simple to maintain/work on, and drives like nothing else. Land Rover hit it out of the park with the D1, and they should have just stuck with the same basic design, much like Volvo did with the 240. It's not a coincidence that both Land Rover and Volvo went down hill after Ford bought them.
Nice work as always Tommy. Thanks for keeping the videos going while we are stuck at home. Can’t wait to see a full off road TFL review of the new Defender.
@@TFLclassics how much they paying you to talk up r/r,???..just lost a lot of subs..there too short & break often..the 110 is the only decent landi,but with the same weaknesses.diffs,transfer.some engines are garbage.
D1 Tdi 300 with a 5 speed is the sweet spot or a Td5 D2 Series II with diff lock if you like a little more comfort. In Australia these are dirt cheap, V8 ones are worthless. Pick them up for peanuts. Tdi/Td5 with the 5 speed and diff lock can fetch higher prices but still reasonable though. My old man picked up a D2 SII slush box with all the extras except leather seats, sunroofs, rear A/C or the crazy 4 zone radio for $2500. Near 300k KM on it and some spare time in the shed to fix a few niggles it’s been super reliable. Even has heated seats! Now a daily driver. Always stealing the keys for it. Ironically all my Land Rovers 2x IIA Ex Royal Australian Army, 3 Defenders (2x Tdi 300 110s and a Td5 90) and the Disco have been very reliable. Toyota level dare I say. Maybe because they’re well maintained... and/or all the main issues have now been fixed.
94 D1 here, it’s a lot of fun on and off road. Just did the head gaskets at 217kmiles last week. Updating the coolant tank this week (the head gasket over pressurized the coolant system destroying both the rad and expansion tank 😠) Being a 94 it’s simple to work on. Most parts need to be ordered or there’s a couple people locally that have used parts, one is a buddy of mine who’s run D1s for years and the other is a gentleman who works for Land Rover and has a line on some crazy parts that would otherwise be impossible to find. It’s fun but if your getting into a classic D1, make sure you know how to turn a wrench and have a little time and $$ to maintain it.
My uncle had one of the first Disco 1's after they came onto the market. He hated it, it was the diesel, kept breaking down. He took it back to the dealer made them take it back.
Love the Discovery! I've had 2 (1995 and 2004)...and both ended up costing more in maintenance than I paid for the vehicle. This is a serious love/hate relationship. Yet here I am...having had a Jeep Wrangler (twice) and Toyota 4 Runner (which still runs like a champ) and for some reason, I am scrolling the car dealerships for Discovery's. Am I dumb, or what?
'97 D1 manual with cloth seats and no sunroof, its my baby, love sitting around thinking about how to fix it
Nice
We had a red with tan cloth ‘96 series 1 with a 5 speed that we bought new in CT. It was the basic model (SE?), so no sunroofs or any of that, but we got a bunch of ridiculously expensive accessories like the bull bar, safari rack and rear ladder. Never upgraded the tires and didn’t have anything that you couldn’t by from Land Rover. The transmission sucked on the road, there are no two ways around it. However, the ride was actually pretty good and offroad that thing was unstoppable. We took it all over New England, drove it out to Chicago and Northern Michigan a number of times and even took a multi-week trip to Colorado for friends’ wedding before moving out to CA when it ultimately got traded for a Discovery 2 when the kids started coming (more on that). We drove on beaches, rocky trails (with Jeeps), mud, snow and a couple of Land Rover events. I can highly recommend the series 1 with a 5 speed for off road use. I can only imagine how unstoppable it would have been with a little after market gear. I remember when my wife was the only female driver at a Land Rover event to balance on the teeter totter - and they were shocked when they realized we had the only manual vehicle other than the guy with the Defender who practically wrecked a couple of times because he stopped listening after, “as fast as . . . .” We ended up having two different Disovery 2s and we had no end of electrical problems with both of them (when we gave up on Land Rover). The series 1 was agrarian and had some electrical bugs, but was mechanically bulletproof over 75K miles with us and I’d bet that thing is still chugging along out there somewhere. I may yet try and get myself another one if I can find one that has the 5 speed and hasn’t had the crap beaten out of it.
There's just something about land rovers. Love them forever. Weirdly they seem to be totally reliable on the trail but on the other hand you could be just cruising on the highway and have the alternator decide it's time for an early retirement. Quirky vehicles but there's something special about them
James Wisrik Yeah you have to plan financially to own one, but if you’re able to cover the costs I’d say it’s a great vehicle to own especially if you’re mechanically inclined
@James Wisrik You've never owned one
@James Wisrik I find it easy to keep mine up. Not much goes wrong. And the normal stuff is easy to fix. If you're at least a shade tree mechanic you'll have no problem up keeping one. Three amigos is a very cheap and easy fix. Alot of times it's a bad solder joint in the abs module. Just cut the brown wire to the shuttle valve switch, run one to a ground and one to the yellow wire to the plug and problem solved. The shuttle valve seals are also easy to fix. Other than that, get a 180 degree thermostat from a td5, upgrade your head bolts to studs and dont overheat it and it will be fine.
The green ovals a wonderful thing 😂
The ride in off road is superb, the v8 purring , how flex in rocks, the Alpine windows, and in some cases the manual trans... Sorry your diesel japan thing probably last more... But for enjoy is very boring. Still love some P38 or ZJ 5.2 or 5.9
The 4.0 and the 4.6 have the same bore size. The common theories about why the 4.6's have slipped liners more often than the 4.0's is that the tooling was worn out, and that for emissions, the engines ran a hotter thermostat. Also, when land rover went from a "3.9" to a "4.0" (they were actually the same bore size) they added block ribbing, and cross bolted main caps. This made the blocks a lot more sturdy.
Dead right mate. And easily fixed by removing the bottom mount 3 way thermostat and installing an online top hose 75 degree C thermostat. Cheers
Thanks again for keeping up the videos during a time of crisis.. Thanks Tommy...videos really help when your stuck in the house.
Yep 👍
My Disco 2, purchased new, was a great vehicle once the dealer (under warranty) replaced just about everything electrical, the leaking windshield, the transmission, the..... i did love driving it, however, and modified it with a 2” OME lift, lockers front and rear, ARB bumper with a 12.5k winch, etc. it worked extremely well off road. Alas, replaced it with a new Land Cruiser.
Fun Fact II - the rover/buick V8 is a very close relative of the Repco V8 which won four world championships with Bradham BT's.
I bought a D1 98MY (one of the very last) with 300tdi as standard, a dual Battery from factory and added a 2inch lift. Definitely slow but it's got so much torque it pulls my camper trailer just about anywhere and it climbs like a tractor. I've seen obstacles on your videos that look a like ones I've faced and I don't think I ever needed to use the centre locking differential. About the same time my friend had bought a D2 and he was constantly having to grapple with airbags. I could never understand why ppl would want to rely on electronics in off-road conditions
Meant to add... electronics for traction control etc. I made that remark to my land rover mechanic and he said that about 70 per cent of their work on newer model Land Rovers is doing just that. I have also heard that the TD5s have a bit of a reliability issue. I had a water pump go and I had to put in a second hand transmission and do a few bushes which wasn't super cheap but for what I paid for the truck it's really been great and I agree the stadium seating is a lot of fun. And now it seems they're becoming desirable again for all these reasons. But anybody got a tip on how to deal with saggy headliners hmu.
The first Disco 2's came out in 1998, here in the UK anyway. The first one I ever saw was a dark blue one, and it was love at first sight when I saw it. 4 years later, managed to get the facelifted model in top trim and Td5 engine. And its still with me to this very day. Fun fact, subtle as it was there were over 700 changes between the Disco 1 and 2.
absolutely!!
there where heaps of changes to the D2.
The Americans have no idea what they missed out on without the diesel option.
I have had my discovery 2 for 2 years now the most expensive part of ownership has been running premium gas in the thirsty girl. If you do your own work and avoid the dealership for repairs it’s not bad at all. The character of the vehicle and hitting the trails in style are totally worth it to me. Looking to get a Range Rover Classic someday too.
You can run 87. Nothing will happen. I’ve been running 87 for 7 years with no issues.
Just to point out, the visual similarity between the S1 and S2 Discoveries wasn't just down to funds. LR surveyed their existing customers, many of whom had already bought more than one new Discovery, to assess their (at the time, our) views on styling and received the clear message that we liked the look just fine. They actually shared no external body panels so still involved the cost of new tooling and some door panels moved from Aluminium to steel. Inside the most obvious difference was the seating - 7 forward facing seats with head restraints and 3-point seatbelts - very different from what had gone before. That was also the point at which UK models had airbags fitted as standard. Here in the UK, LR's home market, the big news was the new diesel engine (V8s are a bit of a novelty here really - fun but expensive - the vast majority of UK Discoveries were diesel). The Td5 was a much smoother, more refined 5-cylinder engine than the 4-pot 300 Tdi although both 2.5 litre. There was a modest power increase too. And no, contrary to popular belief, it wasn't a BMW unit but a full in-house development, unlike the TD4 fitted to Freelanders. We were initially put off by its increased use of control electronics but it has proved to be reasonably robust, also fitted to Defenders long after the Discovery 2 had been replaced. These Discoveries are the family cars I grew up with through the 90s and into the early 2000s, part-exchanging every 2-3 years. In 2003 we bought our last Disco, in 2004 we looked at the new Discovery 3s and just didn't like them enough to warrant the price increase. In 2005 we bought a Defender instead (110 County Station Wagon with luxury appointments such as carpets, cloth seats and a cassette player). I bought it from my Dad in 2009, when he decided he preferred our old D90 for local commuting while I was doing regular motorway journeys. I'm still driving the 110 every day. Dad's still driving a 90 (not the same one - that accidentally demolished a granite wall a few years ago so was retired from service).
Camel Trophy Land Rovers were factory build from the bare ladder frame. They got stronger parts like Maxidrive shafts, CVs, 24 splines etc... Stock Discovery 1/RRC diffs got only two spider gears. Not four. Camels got additional guards, integral rollcages and more. But i own Discovery 200 TDI, and i loves it. Even if it brokes 700km from home, it could back on his own wheels whitout 5th gear.
Jakub Strumiłło 🤫🤫 Shhhhh.... That’s classified information. Only for our forum eyes🤣
All the land rovers after 1992 had the 24 splines
@@RockmanDash Well not really. I was around 93 and 92 model whit new axle sleve like in later 300tdi...
in the 93r model 200tdi, you can change the 10 milling shaft to 24, along with a new differential from 300tdi. Because the axle housing is the same as the newer type in 300tdi. I got this year model whit new axle housing but still only 10 splines inside.
Jakub Strumiłło I was speaking for the US other markets might have been different.
@@RockmanDash i got French model, but in Eu its typical thing. Maybe V8 models got 24 splines faster.
We had a Discovery 2 that was bought brand new. Had a lot of issues unfortunately and ditched it in place of an 08 Hummer H3. The H3 hasn’t given me any major problems so far since we got it brand new. Still think the older Discoveries are cool though!
Sure, great car
A friend of mine has 3 to keep 1 running!!
Love my 2004 facelift TD5, 7 seat, bought it 11yrs ago with 31,000 miles on it, now covered just shy of 200,000! Re mapped, and with a better inter cooler (and completely dump the EGR system, and pipework), pulls well, and on long runs can return 40mpg!!
Just got a td 5 like yours Steve. I’m super excited about it. Just getting it remapped.
What’s the egr system and pipe work? Is this worth doing?
Here in the UK i bought a RR classic as my first car when i was 17 for £800. That was 15 odd years ago and recently i saw my old rr for sale on ebay for 31k?!
I’d like to have a Discovery based on looks, but I would want a Ford 4.9L I6 or 302 V8, preferably a straight 6, and a Ford transmission and wiring harness. I’d even go for a 350 Chevy or 318 Dodge and their respective transmissions and wiring harnesses as well, just to be able to get parts at the local auto parts shop or junkyard, and have better reliability. I’ve always wanted one, but they always need more than they’re worth just to be roadworthy and pass inspection. I don’t have the resources for a swap, but maybe one day. I don’t doubt that they will be in demand and prices will go up, I just saw a $10K Bronco II that has 120K miles on CL, so anything can happen. Prices are getting crazy for old used up 4WDs
I was just thinking the same thing. When Tommy was talking about the issues with the 4.6 motor, I thought "why not just rip out that 4.6 and throw a Chevy 350 small block with a 700R4 automatic or a stick shift in it's place. Plenty of power and way more reliable"
@@thomasmatejka7367 LS engine
I6 will never fit. The v8 is a tight fit. There is a company in Ohio who makes a kit to drop the Chevy LS5300 in. If this engine ever dies, that will be the route I will take
Worth mentioning top hat covers for the 03 /04 engine. BUT expensive.
I have a 5speed 1995 300tdi disco 1 thats imported from Spain, i was thinking about selling it but maybe ill hang on to it abit longer ;) I’ve been through some tough canadian trails with it and its never let me down!
great little video. On a different topic, can you share the locations you are illustrating in the 7:45-9:10 mark? It looks like Colorado and I'm asking because I'm moving to colorado in Feb 2021 and want to start compiling some trails and routes to explore once I get there. I'm on All Trails. Thanks!
Wait till the INEOS Grenadier Comes out !! It will blow the 4x4 market away !!! VERY EXCITING !!
getting a 99 4.9 disco tomorrow..wonder if the Buick parts fit the 3.9..
the bore was only changed from the 3.5 to 3.9 all the other bore sizes are the same. It was the stroke that changed. So they did not keep getting thinner and thinner between the cylinders. just saying.. take care
I like the land rover line with the base model defender, the mid range discovery, and the top of the line range rover. Nowadays the range rover, the discovery, and the new defender are all just technology filled luxury SUVs. The new defender is a luxury SUV. It was the last classic land rover.
Respect to the Americans that choose to buy old Land Rovers over the debatably cooler options you have over there.
Really enjoying these "Here's Why" series of videos. Please do one on BMWs? In particular X5 (E53) and 5-series (E39). They are the last of the true driver cars BMW made. Before all the electronic display crap came along.
Hang on, the e53 x5 is a drivers car?
I had a 1998 land rover discovery series 1 when I lived in the AK bush. Absolute trash pile. Over the course of 5 months I replaced
-rebuilt heads/head gasket
-fuel injectors
-timing cover and gasket
-water pump
-oil pan gasket
-alternator
-starter
ABSOLUTE SHITBOX VEHICLE
But damn it looks cool- TBH just buy a land cruiser
The good looking land cruisers arent sold here, ehich is why it sucks that land rovers were so crappy. They improved recently, but lr4 is still expensive and still not very reliable, and lr5 just doesn’t look cool anymore.
It’s a shame you guys never got the diesel versions. A bit more agricultural and not as smooth but suits the vehicle very well. Far more durable also.
Nice video, but you need to check your facts about the Rover V8 years and models, and the Bosch V8 years and models.
I think an FJ60 or FJ62 should be next on your ownership list!!!
Avoid the 4.0 V6 😆😆😆Wheels Australia said the Discovery couldn't even match the first gen Pajero off the show room floor....😆
keep in mind that 'Wheels Australia' is a Toyota owned magazine
@@davidhuett3579 Even back in the late 80's?🤔
I got the Discovery 4 and it’s just amazing
Hey guys love the classics especially the wide range of vehicles u choose . Eclatic ones are really cool to see . Can you guys try and find a Isuzu rodeo or trooper these where great off roaders and work horses shame they left the us for non-commercial vehicles .
I thought the Buick engine started out as cast iron and Land Rover made it an alloy engine.
The Rover V8 may be inspired in design by the Buick, but it definitely isn't the Buick engine. The "Rover V8 is actually a Buick V8" statement is so widely spread that people now believe\state it as "fact". Although Land Rover, etc. have made statements about this on multiple occasions, this "fact" has remained. A persistent little bugger.
@@libertyts Buick sold the design and all the tooling to the UK for their All Aluminum V8 in 1961... It is not fiction but fact and nobody is trying to hide that fact. It may have evolved over time...but make no mistake, that was a Buick engine
Nice move Tommy 💪👊👍
Series 1 had full floating axles, 2 did not. 2 was 3" wider as well and used P38 axles.
Watts link rear suspension?? Series 1 used 4 link rears. Radius arm front. Edited: Series II does use Watts, series 1 does not.
my 03 has a watts link. they wear out fast on lifted discovery
@@troymortimer3487 Your right... I haven't had a SII for 8 years. I recall my 99' having the same upper A-arm design, it was a SII not a late I... But looking at the diagrams it shows a Watts...
If it’s not a 4.0 v8 dump it and buy an xj
The 4.6 is better again. The longevity the earlier 3.9 in the D1 was unbeatable before core shift problems got the V8 on the production line. The D2 cooling system ran the V8's too hot for my liking but that was an easy fix...removing the 3 way thermostat and using a 75c top hose thermostat. The cooling system itself is very good. Cheers
Land Rover owned two 4.6 before great power lots of torque but wasn’t reliable. The 4.0 v8 was the most reliable best fuel efficiency v8 I owned. I mean I have the disco 4.0 v8 and an xj 4.0 i6 and I love the both great off roaders
@@paolonakad734 Pablo the 4.6 was only a stroked 4.0. The bore was the same. Towards the latter years of the 4.0/4.6 they realised they has issues on the production line and tested the wall thickness of the castings with ultrasound and preferences the thickest walls to the 4.6's (according to.Des Hammel's book on powertuning the Rover V8). I had a 4.0 in my D2 from new and replaced with a 4.6 a few years ago. Both great motors but I love the torque of the 4.6 and it chewed less fuel towing and when laden. Didn't chew more fuel empty but my D2 is heavy even when empty. Cheers
Wait what? British Leyland made Land Rover a actual company in its own right not just a model name from a lineup?
People shouldn't expect a small brand like LR to have the reliability and development levels of the 2nd largest manufacturer Toyota. Just buy a Lcruiser instead of commenting on Disco videos on RUclips, if it means that much to you .
Well researched!
Yes we believe you, you don’t have to tell us believe or not.
so can you still buy a series 1 or 2 these days or are they on their last leg?
So Tommy, what model do y'all own? Is it a post '05 model or a Discovery 1?
Way more reliable than Jeep plenty go bush down here in oz ya don’t see many Jeeps anywhere remote
I have a Discovery 1, 1997, she is oK, as my Defender90 needs maitenence tô be OK ✅
Is he from fitment industries?
NO mention of how the design of the Matra Rancho influenced the design of the first gen Discovery! Booo....!
I love Land Rover products overall but they sure are garbage. I mean, they are exceptionally appealing and exceptionally crappy. Yes, our family has owned several. They are awesome and they are also infuriating. Buyers beware but be prepared to also still like it somehow even if it fux you all the time.
Roman’s Retina (75)
Dude stop making these videos. You're driving up the value of the Discovery
Good.
For real! That’s the main thing popping off in my head.
Cheapest one ear me is around $8k. Prices have gone up
@@boostdemon I'm about to buy one for 1400
@Blake Thacker lol what
He's absolutely right. The Discovery 1 is not bad at all reliability wise. And one of the most capable off-roaders from stock ever built.
I totally agree!! 90% of Land Rovers ever made are still on the road today! The other 10% actually made it home!!!
Yeah and the up keep cost as much as a toyota per year.
Yeah... Maintaining this machines was easy and cheap, the only thing required was.... Never use them, leave it on the garage..for years...and Wow this keep them cheap to maintain.
@@DonutsReview that's just not true. And look at the new Toyota's. Ugly and boring. The last Toyota you could buy that were cool were the J7s.
Donuts yep, the purchase cost a new Toyota each year.
My Disco 2's throttle position sensor failed on the way to work. I managed to get it there by switching of and on the ignition. Thought i could get it home after work using the same technique. Sadly not. Still got me the 12 miles home though! On tickover.
I guess that must mean i'm part of the 10%... lol
Great video, Just spent the morning doing some work on my early discovery 1 while on corona lockdown here in New Zealand.
Love the discovery 1 will never sell it. To work everyday, up mountains and through mud and rivers it does it all, great vehicle.
I agree completely, '95 D1.
Every time I watch your videos, I feel better about my D2. It’s also my Coronavirus apocalypse escape vehicle. 🚙
Escape in style. I completely agree, '95 D1.
Same here. Starting to love my '04 D2 even more!
96 with 95k miles and still kicking .
I'm looking for my escape vehicle too 🙂
Might wanna get some spare parts built up in a bin with some oil and antifreeze. I'd say the same for any vehicle that could go off the beaten path but particularly Land Rovers. I love them. I have two and have owned 6. They never fail to fail.
I have a 97 Discovery 1 with the 300TDi Turbo Diesel motor with a 5 speed manual. It's a shame you didn't get the diesel over there. Not a fast car by any means but more than enough torque for offroading and very reliable and have such a unique sound to them! I do enjoy driving my Disco with that commanding high seating position.
there is so much content on the discovery. in Aus there is a very knowledgeable group AURLO. which has technical anwser for everything. heaps of vid on RUclips for mechanic servicing. lots of upgrades available still. all of issues Tommy talked about have all been identifed and have ways of rectifying it. if you do it your self and take your time, you will get through it. Don't by a LR and get a shop to do the work as it will cost more than what you buy the car for. The disco2 is the last of the mechanical discos. LR3 are electronic city. which is good and bad.....
I've off roaded in a ton of different vehicles and I think and feel like rovers climb the best out of them all.....
I love my disco 1 with the 300 tdi conversion!
Wow thats a sick setup
I have considered a tdi conversion but her 3.9 has yet to let me down.
Just picked up a '98 Discovery 1 for a cheap second overland rig for the wife. What a cool rig it is, but I'm learning quite a bit about fixing other people's maintenance neglect--my driveway looks like someone parked the Exxon Valdez on it! It's stupid simple to work on though, and I'm actually feeling confident to tackle the head gaskets next weekend!
Any update on how ownership has been so far? I'm considering picking up a 95 Disco 1
@@cameronrobertson9518 funny you ask, taking her out this weekend with another D1 and a Kalahari edition D2! Should have a video it soon!
@@MattKester LS swap it 🫖
Ohh yes please make my Disco II more valuable.
I got my 03 Disco TD5 over 14 years ago , and still drive it today and love it! I drive modern 4x4's in my work , they may be quicker and more powerful, but they don't have the style or nice drivability of my Disco! ANd they break down too!
Cheers Gregg.
How did I miss this video? Super informative. I loved the way you presented the history, Tommy. I'm looking at adding a dedicated off road vehicle within next year. TFL's Disco and LR3 testing has convinced me to start looking in that direction. Thanks.
My Discovery Series I runs fine with 100k miles. I just love my LR. 150% reliable. Just follow the schedule mantainance. The Landie will run forever. :) I will not replace it. Mint condition int/ext.
4 or 5 grand? in australia v8 worth about 4 or 5 hundred. diesel though that's wheres the moneys at Maybe a $1000 .... Seriously though a manual turbo diesel 4wd for a $1000 they're a good buy if you're mechanically inclined
they must be in crap condition to be worth that!!
Although it is a few years since I watched this video, after watching it and Nathan and Nathan today, l now understand why l bought a 1994 Discovery 5spd two years ago. I'm still loving it. Thanks guys.
I’ve crossed the Simpson Desert (Australia) in a series 1 MK2. 1100 sand dunes. 5 days to cross. Took 6 extra 10 litre fuel cans, but I could have done it on just the tank alone. Very able vehicle and the diesel was very fuel efficient for the period. 2001. Best 4x4 I’ve had. Followed by a long wheelbase Defender. The worst 4x4 I ever had!!
There are 1999 Discovery 1's...I know, I own one. Also, a part of the Discovery history is the Honda Crossroads which was essentially a LR Disco with Honda badging...Great video though! Very informative.
Tommy talks about the lack of 3rd row leg room in the DIsco's...Jeep Commander: Hold my beer. :D
Hi I am a land rover owner and yes they all come with their different problems but the discos inner steel body and chassis can rot spectacularly especially if you live in a country where salt is used on the roads in winter, but bear in mind we are talking about vehicles 15 to 30 years old, if you buy one learn to weld first.
If you purchase any classic you'd better learn to do metalwork. But it's worth it once it's finished. :)
Your vids convinced me to buy a 06' LR3 Tommy. Cheers mate
Love your videos. You should do a comparison between all your classics SUVs: the XJ, the Discovery and the ML. Also, you should consider adding an old MB Gwagon to your menu.
The common refrain in my large metropolitan area is, “Don’t dance with the Disco!”, meaning the LR Discovery. Most have been poorly maintained and run into the ground and little recommended maintenance.
I live in a rural area that is about 100 miles from the third largest city in the country, I've found that generally buying any older used vehicle from "city people" is a bad idea.
I have an 03 Discovery I bought new- it's been a wonderful vehicle.
Intresting to see from an Americans point of view. Quite a few small inaccuracies in the info' though.
Examples? Im interested
Good advice. My day car is a Disco 1. I have no intention of changing it.
Got a 97 SE7 with 4.0 and manual transmission.Cross Canada with it on is 20th year and still live with a regular diet of snow ,gravel and mud...I love my old beast!
The three amigos are usually fixed by changing the shuttle valve ( a separate part) that is easily changed and costs about £60, about 7 small bolts, working from under the abs box which doesn't need the brake lines undoing even, the are long enough to unclip, easy
Unfortunately the shuttle valve kit did not fox the cracked circuit board. Google WABCO ABS Option B...that was a proper fix. Dead easy too. Cheers
Actually...you should buy the Range Rover Classic
The early Classics without the rear air suspension, are pretty much the same as the Discovery 1
Paulo G I’m aware of this, yet I still like the classic more. It’s just a more iconic silhouette.
@@patrickmason6971 With that I must fully Agree
RRC has better forward view for tall people than the Disco one. Even though the glass is the same the headliner covers a small strip at the top of the windshield on the Disco. This seems insignificant to most but if you use that strip, like I do, it is very noticeable.
@@patrickmason6971 Both have pretty iconic silhouettes, the raised roof on the Disco is shared with nothing else. Unfortunately Ford has been busy cribbing from the RR shape the past 15 years
The series 1 Disco is the best cars I have ever owned. I drive the V8 model now and I have had a 4 cilinder deisel for 10 years and have had a 86 range rover. But I have owned a later virsion but as soon as cars started getting filled with electronics the less reliable the vehicles became
The most in-depth video on the discovery ive ever seen, I own a series 1 so it's very good to hear the history behind it. Thanks for the vid.
Interesting US points of view. All I can add to this discussion is that I live in the UK, in Wales in fact. I'm 70, I've had and used Land Rovers of all kinds over the years and I simply don't recognise the stories of low reliability that come out of the USA, The only thing that differs perhaps is that most British/European/ rest of the world Discoveries, and in fact most Landrovers of any kind, since the introduction of the bullet proof Tdi diesel engines, are diesel. Why would anyone want a petrol/gas engine ? The prejudice in the USA for gas power is because of cheap gas and a misunderstanding of small diesel engines, and a misunderstanding of how power functions in a vehicle like a Land Rover. Sorry Americans, yout prejudice against small diesels is your loss. Currently I own a 1996 Discovery 1 Tdi. It develops a whacking great 113 bhp. Don't know what that is in American, but it's about the same as Mini. So what's the design thinking then ? Well it's the difference between gas and diesel. High torque at low revs and the most competent and versatile manual transmission even compared with the high tec stuff Land Rover produces today.. My 24 year old Disco, that's the familiar nomenclature this side of the Atlantic, will tow quite a bit more than the official 4 ton rating, is the next best thing to a track laying vehicle off road, is almost infinitely repairable, delivers an average of 29 mpg, including off road and towing (35 mpg on the highway) and frankly has been at least as reliable as any of the great many vehicles I've operated since 1967. On top of that it's a lovely comfortable drive on and off road. It's worth more than I paid for it six years ago too.
I have never had a Land Rover before, and just got a 1997 Land Rover Discovery for a few hundred dollars that actually looks and runs well. I'm looking forward to restoring it. Although I'm confused because the 4.0 engine doesn't look like if has a round distributor cap in the rear of the engine. I think I just need to crawl up there and take a closer look!
Tommy, TFL talks a lot about Jeeps and Land Rover. What is the best all around model from each in your opinion and why? And which of those 2 would you rather have?
My old 93 disco 1 was better than my 2003 disco 2 by a long way.
I just got a 96 discovery for 1k with less than 100,000
Too bad the LR diesels engines weren't sold in Defender and disco in USA, as they were in the UK, LR would have a very different USA reputation for reliability. TDi, TD5 are solid. 'Merica likes V8s apparently!
Great video!!! I sold a 95 Disco a couple years ago due to blown headgaskets, slipped liner. I loved it like my loyal 5yr old Labrador. For the cost of a used replacement engine I purchased a clean low mileage 04 Grand Cherokee WJ 4.7L V8, 4" long arm lift on 33's, it's just as capable but more reliable. I will always miss my Disco but love my WJ.
Rand Block well done. I shopped clean WJ, very hard to find good ones, ended up with a P38 rover (basically a Discovery II with a nicer interior).
If your Willing to spend the money they can be Made to be relible. Just better be willing to spend the money $$$$$$$$.
I rember waching some of the challeges on tv It was amazing to see where they go..
Great review, I have had 4 Land Rover products, 2 classic Range Rovers, a Defender TD5 and now a Disc 2 facelift, this has been the best all rounder. My facelift D2 has the 4.0 V8 and runs perfect. Yes it's not used and abused off road, and it does need looking after and if you are an old school DIY mechanic, checking and tinkering with the car then it ticks all the boxes. My Defender was the worst drivers car out there, but I loved it the best, sold it for more than I paid 4 years earlier. Land Rovers have a unique character and once under the skin you can't live without one. I am not sure about ones newer than 2005, but no doubt one day will have to make the jump. But for now my 2004 D2 will be around for many years to come.
Here in the UK rust is a huge issue with D1&2's. Even the Discovery 3 body's and chassis are getting very crusty.
Stop putting salt on roads during winter snow
Great video!! what about the Samurai project?
Hell yeah
Disagree. I had first gen disco and it was the biggest POS I’ve ever owned. I’ve owned around 15 vehicles in my life. I loved the disco but the disco loved my pocketbook. The interior was nice, the look was cool, the dual sunroofs and high up seating was the best. It had tons of tons of issues during my 3 year ownership period and left me stranded countless times. Awful, absolutely awful
As the owner of a mostly stock and mostly pristine 03, I think you will find that the few that are still out there are the ones that were put together right and loved. I have had mine for almost 8 years now. Brakes, shocks, springs, headliner, and of course, a new engine (with top hatted cylinder liners to keep them from ever slipping again) and all is well. Except for the engine, it has been very trouble free all these years. I did see the three amigos, but that was the ABS sensors and easily repaired when I did the brakes. My biggest deviation from stock: The rear steel bumper. One aspect of the high mounted tails I hate is that when people are not paying 100% attention, they notice them a bit late. I replaced the stock bumper twice due to "love taps" and finally bit the bullet and bought a steel expedition bumper as it was cheaper and stronger. Great trucks if you take care of them, nightmares if you don't. I get a lot of compliments and people making offers, but I love my truck too much.
Arthur Haberland
New motor 🤔🤔
It's all about the D1. Get a well maintained '96/'97 that wasn't abused. You'll fall in love. The bad reputation comes from the D2, which was a disaster waiting to happen for a variety of reasons, especially at their initial price point. The D1 is simple to maintain/work on, and drives like nothing else. Land Rover hit it out of the park with the D1, and they should have just stuck with the same basic design, much like Volvo did with the 240. It's not a coincidence that both Land Rover and Volvo went down hill after Ford bought them.
What lift and tire is on the TFL discovery?
Nice work as always Tommy. Thanks for keeping the videos going while we are stuck at home. Can’t wait to see a full off road TFL review of the new Defender.
Can’t wait either!
@@TFLclassics how much they paying you to talk up r/r,???..just lost a lot of subs..there too short & break often..the 110 is the only decent landi,but with the same weaknesses.diffs,transfer.some engines are garbage.
D1 Tdi 300 with a 5 speed is the sweet spot or a Td5 D2 Series II with diff lock if you like a little more comfort. In Australia these are dirt cheap, V8 ones are worthless. Pick them up for peanuts. Tdi/Td5 with the 5 speed and diff lock can fetch higher prices but still reasonable though. My old man picked up a D2 SII slush box with all the extras except leather seats, sunroofs, rear A/C or the crazy 4 zone radio for $2500. Near 300k KM on it and some spare time in the shed to fix a few niggles it’s been super reliable. Even has heated seats! Now a daily driver. Always stealing the keys for it. Ironically all my Land Rovers 2x IIA Ex Royal Australian Army, 3 Defenders (2x Tdi 300 110s and a Td5 90) and the Disco have been very reliable. Toyota level dare I say. Maybe because they’re well maintained... and/or all the main issues have now been fixed.
helps that the only part original is the lt230, everything else changed.
But the V8 is so smooth and powerful. Excellent fun. With the 5 speed manual 13.5l on the highway and around town is easily achievable. Cheers
94 D1 here, it’s a lot of fun on and off road. Just did the head gaskets at 217kmiles last week. Updating the coolant tank this week (the head gasket over pressurized the coolant system destroying both the rad and expansion tank 😠) Being a 94 it’s simple to work on. Most parts need to be ordered or there’s a couple people locally that have used parts, one is a buddy of mine who’s run D1s for years and the other is a gentleman who works for Land Rover and has a line on some crazy parts that would otherwise be impossible to find. It’s fun but if your getting into a classic D1, make sure you know how to turn a wrench and have a little time and $$ to maintain it.
Got a Freelander 2 and went on an off road all terrain course near chepstow. I was genuinely impressed with what the discovery was capable off.
My uncle had one of the first Disco 1's after they came onto the market. He hated it, it was the diesel, kept breaking down. He took it back to the dealer made them take it back.
Love the Discovery! I've had 2 (1995 and 2004)...and both ended up costing more in maintenance than I paid for the vehicle. This is a serious love/hate relationship. Yet here I am...having had a Jeep Wrangler (twice) and Toyota 4 Runner (which still runs like a champ) and for some reason, I am scrolling the car dealerships for Discovery's. Am I dumb, or what?