Description
Range Rover Classic V8 | 1988
Highlights:
- 3.5-litre V8 petrol engine with manual transmission
- Overhauled in 2024 including valve lapping and carburettor reconditioning
- New paintwork and new tyres
The seller offers for sale this 1988 Range Rover Classic V8 3.5 carburateur. This example is powered by an eight-cylinder 3.5-litre petrol engine coupled to a manual transmission. First registered in 1988, it has been in the hands of its first owner until now, with maintenance invoices from 1988 to 2006. The car was immobilised from 2011 and brought back to the road in 2024 following an overhaul. This included valve lapping, replacement of hydraulic lifters, ignition adjustment, installation of new spark plugs and wires, carburettor reconditioning, new fuel pump, and fitting of new tyres.
The bodywork benefits from a fresh coat of paint, presenting in a renewed condition. Its classic design, tall stance, and robust ladder-frame chassis exemplify the original Range Rover’s blend of utility and style.
The exterior paintwork has been redone and requires no immediate attention. The panels appear in uniform colour and finish. There are two small rust holes, about the size of a one-euro coin, located on the front floor – one on the driver’s side and one on the passenger’s side – but otherwise no significant rust is noted.
The interior is in good overall condition, featuring the original seats with age-related wear but no tears. The dashboard is in good shape, the headliner has been replaced, and only a few small plastic covers are missing.
Mechanically, the car is reported to be solid, with smooth gear changes and no abnormal noises from the engine or gearbox. Lighting and indicators function as intended. The vehicle has not yet undergone its current technical inspection. Overall, it presents as a usable and well-preserved example that can be driven, with only minor attention required over time.
The Range Rover Classic, introduced in 1970, was a revolutionary vehicle that bridged the gap between off-road capability and on-road comfort. Before its debut, Land Rover vehicles were purely utilitarian, designed for agricultural and military use. The Classic changed this by offering a four-wheel-drive vehicle with refined styling, coil-sprung suspension, and a comfortable interior. The V8 petrol engine, sourced from Rover’s Buick-derived aluminium block, provided both torque and smoothness, making it ideal for long journeys as well as rugged terrain.
Over the years, the Range Rover Classic evolved from a two-door workhorse into a more luxurious four-door model, attracting customers far beyond the farming community. By the late 1980s, when this example was built, the model had gained significant popularity worldwide. The 3.5-litre carburetted V8 was known for its durability and relatively simple maintenance. Owners appreciated its off-road prowess thanks to permanent four-wheel drive and high ground clearance.
Today, well-preserved early Range Rover Classics are increasingly sought after by collectors. Their timeless boxy design, combined with genuine go-anywhere ability, has given them iconic status. Unlike later generations, these vehicles retain a straightforward mechanical nature, making them appealing to enthusiasts who value both authenticity and ease of repair. Many surviving examples have undergone extensive modifications, so an original-spec model like this one is an attractive proposition.
With its first-owner history, comprehensive recommissioning, and renewed cosmetics, this 1988 Classic V8 3.5 offers a strong foundation for both regular use and potential future appreciation. Whether admired for its design, enjoyed on weekend drives, or taken off the beaten track, it remains a symbol of the Range Rover’s pioneering spirit.
“Condition of the Bodywork and Paint
4. Very Good: Small dents or scratches; may require minimal bodywork or paint correction.
Condition of the Interior
4. Very Good: Clean with minimal wear; may need minor replacements for small missing or broken parts.
Technical Condition
4. Very Good: Mechanically solid, with possible minor maintenance required.
Overall Condition
4. Very Good Condition: Shows only minimal wear and is ready to drive at any time.”
This item is sold on an as-is basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and descriptions of the listing are for information purposes only.
We encourage all potential bidders to inspect the vehicle before placing a bid. Please contact us by phone or email to schedule an appointment.
All auction cars offered have a reserve price. You have only won the item if the seller accepts your bid.
Price changes and errors reserved. The 14-day right of withdrawal does not apply to this auction.
This car is currently located in Aquitaine region, France.
This car drives, brakes and shifts.
The car has a French registration (Carte grise). The buyer is responsible for registration in his own country and responsible for delivery and collection of any vehicle purchased at the auction.
The description of this car is, to the best of the seller’s knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Route 66 Auctions requests a range of detail about the car from the seller and performs a level of due diligence. However, potential buyers must independently satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description. We strongly advise potential buyers to view or arrange inspections as well as conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to bid or buy.
Please note that it is not uncommon for classic or collectible cars to have received cosmetic repairs in the past, to rectify damage or refresh appearance, and this work may be hard to see even upon visual inspection. Unless there is an explicit statement by the seller to the contrary, please assume that any vehicle could have had bodywork or paintwork. Photographs may not reflect the exact true colour or exact full condition of the vehicle. It is a bidder’s responsibility to assure themselves of the colour and condition of a vehicle, including its interior and the existence of any remedial bodywork or paintwork, before committing to bid or buy.
