I just sold a high milage 96 D1 for about a third of what you are looking at. That said, it was just your basic, dated, and shabby SD.
Generally, an SE model of that vintage is selling in the $6k to $7K range.
For very little more than the price range you are suggesting, you can find a first year series 2. If you are also considering some offroading, despite what some will say, the longer wheelbase will not be a hinderance, except it the most extreme approach or departure situation. The interior of the '96 is dated, and if you go to a dealer where you are able to compare them side by side, you will find the interior of the Series II disco more pleasing. The later Bosch engine management is more reliable than Gems, although a well maintained Gems version is not really that unreliable.
Series one Discos were not built the same way as series II, and rust can be a serious issue in doorposts, rear wheel arches, and rear floor seams, especially true in areas where salt is used.
If you are looking at this purchase for an extra car, where daily use isn't expected, an you can verify service history from birth, go for an SD or SE D1, If it's going to be a daily driver, which you need to rely on, a good Series II will be a better choice. All Land Rovers are more maintainance reliant than other makes, but, well maintained, give back a whole lot more pleasure.
That's just my opinion, backed somewhat by 30+ years of Land Rover ownership, of every model they ever made, except for the most recent, high-end variety.
Last edited by TerryS : 01-07-2005 at 09:40 AM.
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