Land Rover FAQ - Repair & Maintenance

U.S. Spec. Range Rover Classic Changes

Author: Kevin Kelley <kkelley6788@earthlink.net>
Version 2.0

1987 | 1988 | 1989 | 1990 | 1991 | 1992 | 1993 | 1994 | 1995

1986

October 27th was the official opening of Range Rover North America's Maryland Headquarters. The first U.S. dealers received their framed charters from Britain's Princess Alexandra at the ceremony. The first U.S. Spec. Range Rover (after two years of development under the code name "Eagle") rolled off the Solihull assembly line November 18th.

1987 Model

(The Range Rover first went on sale March 16th in the U.S.)
Number built 1,542 U.S. (21,225 Worldwide)
First '87 built November 18, 1986
After '87 most Range Rovers were first sold about 2-3 months after the build date.
Last 8 digits of first U.S. Spec. Range Rover VIN HA277451
Base Price $31,375
Curb Weight 4,303 lbs.
Gross Vehicle Weight 5997 lbs.

Powertrain:

3.5L (3528cc) 150 hp @ 4750 rpm (15 less hp than the euro 3.5L that did not have the three-way exhaust catalysts and other U.S. emissions equipment.) 195 lb-ft torque @ 3000 rpm Aluminum 90-degree V8 (3.5" bore x 2.8" stroke) 8.13:1 compression ratio. Lucas 13CU multiport electronic fuel injection. The electronic fuel injection on the Range Rover was similar to the EFI that had been using on the 3.5L V8 in Rover cars since 1970, but it was tuned differently for low end power and torque. A Pulsair air injection system allowed fuel to be burned more completely. Five main bearings, hydraulic lifters, and 80 amp alternator. Diesel engines were never available on Range Rovers imported to the U.S. by Range Rover North America (RRNA) or Land Rover North America (LRNA).

4 speed ZF4HP22 automatic (the same transmission was used by BMW, Mercedes, and Volvo) with lockup torque converter and overdrive 4th gear. (1st 2.48:1, 2nd 1.48:1, 3rd 1.00:1, 4th .728:1, R 2.086:1) Manual transmissions were never available on Range Rovers imported to the U.S. by RRNA or LRNA. 2 speed LT230T gear driven transfer case providing permanent four-wheel drive with mechanical center differential. lock (High 1.222 & Low 3.320) Parking brake was built in to the transfer case. California models had a vacuum advance delay valve to further improve emissions.

EPA 13 mpg city, 15 mpg highway

Chassis and Suspension:

Fourteen gauge box-section ladder-type frame with five crossmembers and ten mounting points for the body. Electrophoretically treated for corrosion resistance. Class III towing receiver. Long travel coil springs on all four corners, 133 lb./in. front and 127 to 180 lb./in. dual rate in rear. Beam axles with spiral bevel differentials (3.54:1 ratio) and fully floating axle shafts located by radius arms and a panhard rod in front, trailing links and a central "A" frame in the rear. A self energizing "hydromat" ride leveling device is on the rear axle. and hydraulic telescopic shock absorbers at each corner. Worm and roller steering with power assist. Four wheel power disk brakes with four piston calipers in front and two piston calipers in the rear (early '87 models had an Automotive Products (AP) master cylinder with a pressure differential warning actuator, later '87 models had a Lucas Girling master cylinder with a float that activated the warning light when brake fluid level dropped) with pad wear sensors on the front right and rear left inboard brake pads. All U.S. spec Range Rovers came with 7x16 inch three spoke alloy wheels with an asymmetric rim hump to better retain a flat. According to Land Rover they got the idea for the three spoke wheel design from the 1979 Ford Mustang.

The tires were Michelin XM+S 200 205 R16 radials. Wheelbase was 100" and track was 58.5".

Exterior:

Available Paint Colors: Caspian Blue Metallic, Astral Silver Metallic, Cypress Green Metallic, Cassis Red Metallic, Chamonix White, and Cambrian Gray

All U.S. Spec Range Rovers were 4 door models, the 2 door model was never imported to North America by RRNA or LRNA. All outer body panels are aluminum except the steel hood (bonnet), tailgate, and rear corner panels.
Horizontally split tailgate and rear window.
Locking fuel filler cover (the '87 model was the first Range Rover with a door covering the fuel filler) Some early '87's may not have had a black Land Rover badge on the grill (this grill was also new for '87, previous Range Rovers had vertical salts in the grill.)
Black painted bumpers, Built in Class III towing receiver at the rear
Front spoiler with integrated driving lights.
Halogen headlights with power wash sprayers built in to the front bumper.

Windshield washers on the hood, and washer and wiper on the rear window.
Sun Roof's were not available.
Heated left and right outside power mirrors.

Accessories offered by the dealers included: brush guards, lamp guards, running boards and front mud flaps (rear mud flaps were standard).

Interior:

Available Interior Colors: Osprey Gray cloth or Penbroke Gray leather 6 way power seats (more '87's had cloth than leather upholstery) with adjustable armrests.
Only one option was available from the factory leather seats.

Air conditioning, Power Windows
60/40 split folding rear seats, folding rear parcel shelf/loadspace cover
Leather covered 16" two spoke steering wheel.
Electric Cruise Control
Clarion AM/FM anti theft stereo cassette with 4 speakers and a radio antenna on rear window glass
Map pockets in door panels, Center cubby box
Woven deep pile removable carpet over rubber mats.
A special lytherm heat/sound insulation material was under the carpet and mats.
American walnut veneer door cappings.
Central locking on all four doors and the fuel door.
Child locks on the rear doors.
Front door puddle lamps and red door open warning lights
Rear window defroster

Accessories offered by the dealers included: Floor mats, dog guard (with or without a shotgun rack), and sheepskin seat covers

Range Rover Models:

Only one model was offered

Other:

Tom Collins (the current U.S. Camel Trophy team coordinator) and Dan Floyd finish 2nd overall in the Camel Trophy driving a Range Rover turbo diesel.
Median income for new Range Rover owners this year (remember we are talking '87 dollars) was $200,000.
The demand for Chamonix White paint and leather upholstery that exceed the supply so plans were made to make more available in '88.

1988 Model

Number built 3,942 U.S. (26,747 Worldwide)
First '88 built August 5, 1987
Last 8 digits of first '88 U.S. Spec. Range Rover VIN JA303322
Base Price $33,950 (increase of $2,575 from '87)
Curb Weight 4,303 lbs. (same as '87)
Gross Vehicle Weight 5997 lbs.

Powertrain Changes:

Transmission was recalibrated (lock-up was delayed) to improve responsiveness, it was the same 4 speed ZF4HP22 automatic with lockup torque converter and overdrive 4th gear. Second gear ratio was changed to 1.48:1 and converter lock up speed increased.

EPA 14 mpg city and highway

Chassis and Suspension Changes:

Bake servo improved for less pedal effort.
New brake disk material to give better pedal feel

Exterior Changes:

Available Paint Colors: Colorado Silver Metallic, Alaskan (light silver b= lue) Blue Metallic, Portofino Red, Chamonix White, Cypress Green Metallic= and Savannah Beige
New roof panel without ribbing over front seat area (to provide a flat ar= ea for the sunroof)
Power sunroof now available as an option at $1,375

Interior Changes:

Available Interior Colors: Osprey Gray cloth or Penbroke Gray leather
More were sold with leather seats in '88 than in '87 a $1125 option
Air conditioning ducts were modified for more flow

Check Engine Light was added to the dash, next to the fog light switch

Range Rover Models:

40th Anniversary Edition:
It was introduced midway through the model year and cost $700 more than a standard Range Rover with the optional sunroof and leather interior. The model was available in Cypress Green or Chamonix White, they all had power sunroofs and Pembroke Gray leather interior with "additional leather details" and lacquered burl walnut door cappings. The wheels were silver with a "special finish" (some were chrome, plated by U.S. dealers). A special oval shaped 40th Anniversary Edition sticker was on the front fenders (wings) below the rub strips. The Sticker said Land Rover 1948-1988 with a big 40th Anniversary in the middle. A small number of Beluga Black 40th Anniversary models were available with darker lacquered burl walnut door cappings.

Other:

Malcom Smith drove a modified Range Rover to a fourth place finish (the highest ever to date for an American) in the 8,000 mile Paris-Dakar rally.

British Aerospace buys the Rover Group from the British Government this year.

1989 Model

Number built 4,372 U.S. (25,674 Worldwide)
First '89 built September 30, 1988
Last 8 digits of first '89 U.S. Spec. Range Rover VIN KA351876
Base Price $36,350 (increase of $2,400 from '88)
Curb Weight 4,372 lbs. (increase of 69 lbs. from '88)
Gross Vehicle Weight 5997 lbs.

Powertrain Changes:

The engine displacement was increased to 3.9L (3947cc), 3.7"bore (up from 3.5 last year) x 2.8" stroke with 8.13:1 compression ratio now put out 178 hp @ 4750 rpm, 220 lb-ft torque @ 3250 rpm. New Lucas 14CU Multiport Electronic Fuel Injection. The '89 is almost 3 seconds quicker than the '88 to 60 mph. Top speed is now over 100 to 107 mph. A Bigger radiator with an oil cooler (in addition to the external oil cooler that the Range Rover has had since '87) was added, and the electric cooling fans would now stay on to cool the engine after shutdown if necessary. The 3.9L Engine required premium unleaded fuel.
Borg-Warner 13-61-004 2 speed transfer case with viscous coupling unit (VCU) still provided full time four wheel drive, and now had an automatic progressive center differential lock-up (1.206 high, 3.243 low). It was chain driven to reduce noise, and still had the built in parking brake. California models no longer had the vacuum advance delay valve that improved emissions. The third catalyst was eliminated.

EPA 12 mpg city, 15 mpg highway

Chassis and Suspension Changes:

Tires were now Michelin XM+S 244 205 R16 radials, on the same 7x16 inch three spoke alloy wheels. Wheel centers were painted body color on County model.

Exterior Changes:

Available Paint Colors: Colorado Silver Metallic, Alaskan (light silver blue) Blue Metallic, Portofino Red, Chamonix (plain) White, Eastnor Green and Savannah Beige Metallic. Available County Colors: Beluga (plain) Black, Cairngorm Brown, Trocadero Red
The lower edge of the front spoiler had four slots added to it and a plastic panel (part #BTR3510) added to the base of it under the engine to help engine bay cooling.
Different muffler and tailpipe now points down
Front window washer jets heated this year, and sqirters on the hood were bigger.
Exposed door hinges were hidden in the first half of the model year (after KA374641)
The hinges were still exposed on '89's built 12/88 but hidden on '89's built 2/89
All models with hidden hinges have deeper black plastic under body sills.
Models with hidden hinges have different fenders/wings (part #MXC1408&9) cowl panel (part #MXC8057). The rear doors also got different hinges.
The black rub strips on the front doors and front fenders are also different on '89s with the hidden hinges.

The electric grid on the heated rear window was changed to cover more area and improve radio reception (the grid was also the radio antenna)
The Land Rover badge on the grill was now green with gold letters

Interior Changes:

Available Interior Colors: Highland Gray Cloth, Brogue Brown Cloth, Winchester (dark brownish) Gray Leather, Sorrell (light tan) Brown Leather.
Dash and console were changed from Boltura also called Bokhara (blueish) gray to Winchester (dark brownish) gray.

A smaller two position shifter for the new automatic locking transfer case The light to remind the driver that the center differential was locked was no longer on the dash to the right side of the radio. (this was not necessary with the automatic locking transfer case)

Door panels were revised and now had a thin strip of lacquered American walnut rather than the door cappings in '87-'88.

The new door panels had two more speakers to bring the total to six, bigger storage pockets, and different interior door locks.
The central locking was extended to the tailgate, the lock actuator was hidden with a black plastic cover.
New Clarion AM/FM anti theft stereo cassette
Power seats now 8 way, most '89's had leather seats
Front windscreen was now electrically heated, switch was added to the dash next to the heated rear window switch
New windshield wiper switch with variable delay lever
The rear wiper had more complex wash wipe features
Ignition override of head lamps, turned head lamps off with ignition, the
headlights on audible warning was deleted, however the parking lights still stayed on with the ignition off
Single touch down driver's power window switch was added.

Side window glass thickness was reduced from 5mm to 4mm to make the glass lighter so the power windows would go faster.
A little plastic air deflector was added to the front window frames mid year when the front glass got thinner.
The rear view mirror was now glued to the front window, as opposed to bolted to the top of the window.
A higher capacity evaporator was added to the air conditioning system that t improved output by 20% and fresh air to the passenger area was enhanced with a new vent control system.

Passenger grab handles above the doors were changed from black to off white to better blend in with the headliner.

The black plastic tabs on the tailgate now say lift and hold in white Push buttons replaced the pull tabs to release the rear seat backs

The VIN And GVW information on the drivers door was now on a sticker, it was on a plate in '87, '88.

Range Rover Models:

County:

It was introduced mid year and cost $7,300 more than the base model. All County's had sunroofs and leather seats that were optional on the base Range Rover, they also came with polished burl walnut on doors, dash and Center console (base models had American walnut on the doors only) Chrome bumpers replaced the black painted bumpers, and the County had anti-glare (or auto dim) control rear view mirror with a photo diode that senses light and dims the rear view. A premium Pioneer sound system with CD changer and subwoofer is listed as optional, but all the County's I have seen had both. The County had emblems in script on the dash, tailgate and all four wheel centers. The passenger grab handle was leather wrapped. Many County's had dealer installed front brush guards and rear light guards.

Hunter:

There was a very limited edition Hunter sold in '89 (see '91 for other Hunter model) they were all Cypress Green with body color wheels, anti-glare control rear view mirror, wood on the console and exterior badging.

Other:

Range Rover was #1 in the J.D. Powers national survey of customer satisfaction at the end of 1989.
Four Wheeler magazine named the Range Rover "Four Wheeler of the year"
Range Rover wins the Motorweek award for best multipurpose vehicle in the U.S.
Honda Motor Company purchased a 20% interest in the Rover Group this year
Range Rover wins a gold medal for coach work at the Birmingham International Motor Show
Land Rover Discovery launched in November based on the Range Rover chassis and powertrain.
After the launch of the Discovery the code name for the new Range Rover was changed from Discovery to Pegasus, and later 38A (38A is the number of the design building at Solihull)
Many '89 Range Rovers had a small round Great Divide Medallion added to the left side of the tailgate by dealers to commemorate the Great Divide Expedition held in August of '89 These are not Great Divide Edition Range Rovers (see '90 and '91 model sections for more information on the Great Divide Expedition and Great Divide Edition Range Rovers)

1990 Model

Number built 5,315 U.S. (27,385 Worldwide)
First '90 built August, 28 1989
Last 8 digits of first '90 U.S. Spec. Range Rover VIN LA400016
Base Price $38,575 (Increase of $2,225 from '89)
Curb Weight 4,389 lbs. (Increase of 17 lbs. from '89)
Gross Vehicle Weight 5997 lbs.

Powertrain Changes:

Larger plastic engine coolant expansion tank.
3.9 now stamped on the top of the engine plenum chamber (the '89 3.9L engines have the same plenum chamber as the 3.5L Range Rovers).
Lucas 14CUX Multiport Electronic Fuel Injection with fault code display.
New more efficient fuel injectors, two piece exhaust system.

Transmission was modified for smoother shifting and an inhibitor was added to prevent kick-down from top into third at high speed.

Models built very late in the year have the 21.6 gal. deformable plastic fuel tank with integrated pump/sending unit (VIN# LA454554 on up)

EPA 13 mpg city, 16 mpg highway

Chassis and Suspension Changes:

A special 4 wheel 4-channel ABS Anti-lock brakes designed to work with the Range Rovers full time four wheel drive was on all models. It was developed over four years in conjunction with the German firm Wabco best known for heavy commercial vehicle and aircraft braking systems.
Front disks now vented for improved cooling and pad life.

The stopping distance from 60 mph by Road & Track was down to 153 feet from 179 feet when Road & Track last tested a Range Rover in '87
Models built very late in the year have an access panel in the rear load area to allow the fuel pump to be replaced without removing the fuel tank (VIN# 454554 on up)
Fourth frame crossmember (what the self energizing "hydromat" ride leveling ng device is bolted to) changed from square to tubular.
Steering swivel pins modified for use with ABS brakes.
County wheels now painted dark gray metallic.

Exterior Changes:

Available Paint Colors: Chamonix White, Colorado Silver Metallic, Portofino Red, Eastnor Green, Westminster Gray Micatallic, Clearwater Blue Micatalic, Beluga Black Clear Coat, Cairngorm Brown Micatallic, Ardennes Green Micatallic, Trocadero Red Micatallic.
The lower edge of the front spoiler got two more cooling slots this year for a total of six. Door Jambs and under hood area painted body color (early '90's 11/89 build are still black)

3rd brake light added to the rear window

Fog lights replace the driving lights in the front spoiler.
Different wiper arms did not have bayonet mounts for the blades anymore

Interior Changes:

Available Interior Colors: Sorrell Brown leather (Winchester Gray leather available only on County). All '90 models had leather interior (except a small number of Countys with special order cloth)

Passenger side door lock now controls central locking.
Heater and AC system was improved increased output.
Starter relay moved under steering column from under the hood.
The instrumentation was changed, check engine light removed from dash, and the lighting improved, warning lights were moved and, the sweep of the new tachometer was now from 9 o'clock to 3 o'clock (from 9 o'clock to 1 o'clock) and the sweep of the new speedometer was now from 7 o'clock to 5 o'clock (from 6 o'clock to 1 o'clock). The speedometer was now electrically-driven and the problems with the often noisy speedometer cable were eliminated. Antenna was modified for improved AM reception on all models and County has a new optional premium sound system with simplified controls.

Better soundproofing was added to the passenger compartment.

A bar code was added to the VIN and GVW information sticker on the drivers side door.

Range Rover Models:

County:

It was priced at $2,100 more than the base model. This was the first full l year the County was offered. The County came with Winchester Gray or Sorrell Brown leather interior the seats had different stitching with fewer seams. (Winchester Gray was not available on base models). Cloth interior could be special ordered on the County only, very few had cloth. The CD changer was now standard on the County, but a sunroof and auto dim rear view mirror were optional.

Great Divide Edition (GDE):

The GDE was built in 1990 (and has 1990 (LA) model specifications) but it was sold as a 1991 with a 1991 (MA) VIN. It was introduced in July of '90. See '91 Range Rover Models for information on the GDE.

Other:

Range Rover North America and the U.S. Forest Service conducted the Great Divide Expedition in August of '89 that traversed the 1,123 mile Continental Divide in eight Range Rovers to publicize the "Tread Lightly Program" and introduce the '90 Range Rovers to the press. RRNA included Tread Lightly material with all new Range Rovers.
Many '89 and '90 Range Rovers had a small round Great Divide Medallion added to the left side of the tailgate by dealers to commemorate the event. These are not "Great Divide Edition" Range Rovers. See '91 Range Rover Models for more information on the GDE.
Auto Motor Sport (Germany's biggest car magazine) names the Range Rover "Best Imported 4x4"
Range Rover North America played down the Range Rovers 20th anniversary, it did not want to remind Americans that the vehicle that they just recently introduced in America was 20 years old.
The American market became the largest of the 80 overseas markets that the Range Rover was exported to this year.

1991 Model

Number built 3,471 U.S. (not counting the 409 GDEs built in 1990) (16,624 Worldwide)
First '91 built August 29, 1990 (except the GDE model, that was built to '90 specs. but sold as a '91)
Last 8 digits of first '91 U.S. Spec. Range Rover VIN MA465228
Base Price $44,475 (increase of $5,900 from '90)
Curb Weight 4,401 lbs. (increase of 12 lbs. from '90)
Gross Vehicle Weight 5997 lbs.

Powertrain Changes:

All now have the 21.6 gal. deformable plastic fuel tank with integrated pump/sending unit. (except the GDE model that was built to '90 specs. and has the old 20 gal tank) The larger tank occupied the space of the old fuel filter (part #0450905030) and different fuel filter (part #ESR3117) was used, and it was mounted farther forward on the frame. The new fuel filler pipe was different and a different gas cap was used (NTC 5418)

EPA 13 mpg city, 15 mpg highway

Chassis and Suspension Changes:

Front and rear sway bars on all models except the Hunter (25mm front, 18.5mm rear). Models with sway bars had single rate (150 lb./in.) rear springs ngs replace the dual rate rear springs, softer bushings installed in the front trailing arms, and different shocks with softer damping characteristics. tics. The sway bars slightly reduced available wheel travel. A new plastic tic undercoating was used this year. Base models had gray painted wheels
A swivel roller bearing was installed (after VIN MA601607) for improved steering feel, this was on the new lower steering shaft (part #NTC8478).
The lower steering universal joint was also redesigned (part #NRC7387)
All have an access panel in the rear load area to allow the fuel pump to be replaced without removing the fuel tank (except the GDE model).

Exterior Changes:

Available Paint Colors: Alpine White, Aspen Silver Metallic, Roman Bronze Metallic, Westminster Gray Micatallic, Clearwater Blue Micatallic, Ardennes Green Micatallic, Trocadero Red Micatallic, Available only on the County SE was Beluga Black Clear Coat. Available only on the Hunter were Alpine White, Eastnor Green, Arran Beige, and Portofino Red.
All '91's (including County SE) had black bumpers
Fuel door was smaller and higher on the body due to the new larger tank this year.

Glass sunroof with sliding screen and CD changer optional on all models (glass sunroof may have been standard on all except Hunter)
Canadian Models had daytime running lights and engine block heater with plug in front spoiler.
Accessories and options offered by the dealers included: A choice of three brush guards in both black or polished aluminum (one was the GDE brush guard/bumper combo), body side moldings with Range Rover logo, sunroof air deflector, five spoke GDE/County SE wheels and the painting of wheel centers body color. A roof rack system made by Tuhle was sold by the dealer.

Interior Changes:

Available Interior Colors: Winchester Gray and Sorrell Brown leather Brogue Brown cloth on Hunter Sound Insulation was increased this year. All interiors were leather in '91 (except Hunter).
Front door locks are now heated
Auto dim rear view mirror and burl walnut was standard (on all except Hunter)

All (except Hunter) had Pioneer premium sound system with subwoofer. All vehicles wired for rear CD changer, Fuel filler release is added to the steering column and the fuel door is no longer part of the central locking system. Recessed rear seat belt anchor points.

All except Hunter had wood on dash and center console like '89-'90 County

Steel loadspace floor replaces aluminum. Vinyl connected the carpet in the rear loadspace area to the carpet on the tailgate covering the tailgate hinges

Accessories offered by the dealers included: half and full length plastic loadspace protectors, (the plastic loadspace protectors would not fit models with CD players) waterproof seat covers with storage bag,

Range Rover Models:

Hunter:

Price was $7,950 (Kelley Blue Book) or $6,500 (Four Wheeler) less than the standard model. The Hunter was introduced as a lower cost model for those who appreciated the Range Rovers off road ability but did not want to pay the rapidly escalating price of a fully equipped U.S. model. The Hunter model sold in '91 was different from the very small number of fully equipped Hunters sold in '89. The '91 Hunter did not have anti lock brakes or anti-roll bars. The exterior of the Hunter was finished in one of four solid colors (Alpine White, Eastnor Green, Arran Beige, and Portofino Red) metallic and micatallic paints were not available on the Hunter, they did not have the plastic front air dam with fog lights, (but had the small plastic air deflector from the European Base and Turbo Diesel models), or a sunroof (the sunroof was available as a $1,500 option). Inside the Hunter had Brogue Brown cloth seats without power adjustment (the '91 Hunter is the only Range Rover ever imported by RRNA/LRNA without power seats). There was a dog guard between the back seat and the load area that at had the hard loadspace cover replaced by a less expensive luggage net.
The wheels were painted light silver and had less expensive Goodyear
Wrangler tires. There is a sticker on the rear tailgate that says "Hunter" in script under a sticker of a man on a horse. A total of 525 Hunters were sold (120 in 1990 and 405 in 1991)

Great Divide Edition (GDE):

Price was $600 more than the standard model. The Great Divide Edition was named after the August 1989 Great Divide Expedition, a 13 day, 1,123-mile trip along the Continental Divide sponsored by RRNA for the press. A limited edition of 400 were made according to press releases and only 400 have the numbered plaques in the door jambs. A total of 409 GDE models were built (the NAS parts manual lists all the VIN #s). The extra 9 GDEs were used for promotional purposes by RRNA. One of the 9 was loaned to the Death Valley Park Rangers for patrol duties and had the optional factory ry winch hidden under the front bumper, ranger decals, and a red and blue highway patrol style light bar on the roof. All were built in 1990 to 1990 (LA) model specs, and were sold in the summer of 1990 as 1991 models ls with 1991 (MA) VINs. All were painted Alpine white with Sorrell (light) t) brown leather interiors. They had a large round Great Divide sticker on the tailgate and a numbered brass plaque in the drivers door jamb. They ey all had rear lamp guards and a front bumper/brush bar (some had dealer installed winches). They did not have the plastic front air dam with fog lights, but had the small plastic air deflector from the European Base and Turbo Diesel models. They were the first US Range Rovers with the 5 spoke wheels (painted smoke gray) that were originally designed as an option for the Discovery in Europe. Inside they were the only U.S. Range Rovers to have pebble dot leather upholstery. They also had a sunroof, auto dim rear view mirror, and American walnut on the doors, dash and center console. The front page of the GDE owners manual had a sticker that says NOTE: This limited Production Range Rover has a special equipment package giving it unique character and appeal. Not all of the equipment described bed in the Owner's Manual is installed on the Great Divide Edition Vehicle. Specifically the references to the front spoiler, engine undertray, and fog lamps do not apply to this vehicle. The fog lamp switch and wiring is installed on the vehicle.

County SE:

Price was $2,500 (Kelley Blue Book), $3,400 (Car & Driver), or $4,300 (Motor Trend) more than the base model introduced as new top of the line model it came only in Beluga Black. It had the same 5 spoke alloy wheels as the package. Inside all the SE's had burled walnut wood, power moonroof, and a two-stage auto-dimming rear view mirror. The Pioneer sound system (with weatherband) was specially developed for the American market, it had a 150 watt amp and eight a/d/s/ speakers and a subwoofer in the rear below the CD changer and amp. The sound system had a subwoofer level control on the dash next to the radio, and the script County emblem (that looked ked like the wheel center caps) was no longer part of the package. All had ad a black painted aluminum brush bar with removable head lamp guards and black lamp guards over the rear lights. (the lamp guards may have been a $178 dealer installed option, but all the County SE's I have seen have them) The County SE was the only County model offered in '91.

Other:

Median household income for new Range Rover owners this year is up to $400,000!
A Great Divide Edition (with a winch) was lent to the Death Valley Park Rangers for patrol duties by RRNA.

The factory warranty increased to 3 years/42,000 miles this year.
Land Rover changed from a unified VIN system to a model specific VIN system January '91

1992 Model

Number built 3,266 U.S. (14,586 Worldwide)
First '92 built June 25, 1991
Last 8 digits of first '92 U.S. Spec. Range Rover VIN NA610295
Base Price $39,475 (decrease of $5,000 from '91)
Curb Weight 4,364 lbs. (base) 4,401lbs. (County)
Gross Vehicle Weight 6019 lbs. (both models)

Powertrain Changes:

Engine got a new piston design, power was up 2hp to 180 @ 4750 rpm and torque was up 7 ft. lbs. to 227 @ 3250 rpm. ABS was only on the County model in '92. Electrical improved with use of better connectors and fusible link in positive battery cable

EPA 13 mpg city, 15 mpg highway

Chassis and Suspension Changes:

Base models did not have ABS or sway bars to help keep cost under $40K. Base model had the five spoke wheel in gray, County models had the three spoke wheel.

Exterior Changes:

Available Paint Colors: Alpine White, Aspen Silver Metallic, Roman Bronze Metallic, Westminster Gray Micatallic, Estnor Green, Ardennes Green, Portofino Red, Trocadero Red, Plymouth Blue, Pembroke Gray, and only available on the County for extra-cost, Beluga Black Cleat Coat.
Land Rover oval on the tailgate like the one on the grill, all County's d= id not have had chrome bumpers.

Interior Changes:

Available Interior Colors: Sorell Brown, Winchester Gray, and a special cream on the County LSE.
Two position memory drivers seat and external mirror

Rear view mirror with two built in map reading lights The auto dim mirror was only on the County and County LSE.

The plastic area around the radio was redesigned (to fit a longer radio) and the cigarette lighter was moved to the right side of the radio

The front seats were now heated and the switches were located on both sid= es of the radio
A Range Rover alarm with a key chain remote (made by Alpine) was available.
Cubby box cup holder mounted to the front of the cubby box
All models had a glass tilt and slide sun/moon roof with sun shade.
Base Range Rovers had American Walnut on the doors and around the shifter

Range Rover Models:

County:

Priced at $5,600 above the base model, The County came with the three spoke alloy wheels, ABS anti-lock brakes, front and rear anti-sway bays (base Range Rovers did not have sway bars and ABS in '92) nicer carpet, special leather front seats, auto dim rear view mirror, Burlwood (vs. American Walnut) wood trim. The Premium Feature Group included: Heated front seats, Remote keyless-entry security system, 120 watt a/d/s integrated audio system with a subwoofer and six-disk CD changer. Beluga Black was only available on the County for $300 extra

County LSE:

County LSE (Light Stone Edition) new top of the line model (not in blue book). The LSE model was above the County and had American Walnut on both shift knobs in addition to all County wood. All LSE models were cream color with cream leather interior. The seats had piping. Most had front and rear rock guards and chrome five spoke wheels. (The U.S. LSE models all had the 100" wheelbase and were different from the County LSE models in Europe that all had the 108" wheelbase)

Brooklands:

This model was first shown at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September '91 at the introduction of the '92 models. It was finished in Brooklands green, and was the first Range Rover to have a new body styling kit produced by Tom Walkenshaw Racing (TWR) with different front and rear bumpers and deeper body color molded under body sills. The Brooklands model was never officially imported to the United States, but the styling kit was installed on a small number of Range Rovers by U.S. dealers between '92 and '94 In '95 the styling kit was shown in the dealer brochure.

Other: Four Wheeler Magazine named the Range Rover County a best buy in the "Cost-is-no-Object-Ultra-Luxury Class"
Range Rover North America (RRNA) changes its name to Land Rover North America (LRNA) in August when it announces that a second Land Rover model, the Defender 110 will be sold in the U.S.

1993 Model

Number built 4,689 U.S. (15,385 Worldwide)
First '93 built July 8, 1992
Last 8 digits of first '93 U.S. Spec. Range Rover VIN PA624881
Base Price $45,125 (Base Model now the SWB County)
Curb Weight 4,401 lbs. SWB 4,574 lbs. LWB
Gross Vehicle Weight 6019 lbs. (SWB and LWB)

Powertrain Changes:

Electronic Traction Control (ETC) on all models used sensors from ABS system to equalize traction between the rear wheels only. SWB 100" model sti
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1) to put out 2 more hp than for a total of 182 @ 4750 rpm, Torque was up 5 ft.-lbs. to 232 @ 3100 rpm. Bigger alternator (part #A2528) put out 100 amps, and a new poly-v belt was fitted. LWB 108" model had a larger 4.2L (4275cc) engine (3.70" bore x 3.03 stroke) with a 8.84:1 compression ratio producing 200 hp @ 4850 rpm 251 lb-ft torque @ 3250 rpm. The engine has 4.2 stamped in the top of the intake. All models had internal valve-body changes to the transmissions for notably smoother shifting.

EPA 13 mpg city, 16 mpg highway 4.2L

Chassis and Suspension Changes:

Longer frame was used for the 108" (2743 mm) wheelbase LWB model introduced this year.
All of the extra length was in the rear door area so all the 100" sheet metal could still be used except the rear doors and roof.
Electric Air Suspension (EAS) or Electronically Controlled Air Suspension (ECAS) with auto leveling and ride height adjustment is on all LWB models, and later in the year on a small number of SWB Sport models (see below) The electronic air suspension control unit monitors level sensors at all four corners and automatically adjusts the vehicles air springs to constantly maintain a level ride, even when fully loaded. Driver controls on the dash allow the vehicle to be raised or lowered over a range of 5.1 inches (130mm).
County models had the three spoke wheels and the County LWB had the five = spoke wheels (painted body color).

Exterior Changes:

Available Paint Colors: Alpine White, Ardennes Green, Portofino Red, and Westminster Gray on the County model. Alpine White, Ardennes Green, Beluga Black Roman Bronze, Mosswood, and Plymouth Blue on the County LWB model. All the County Sport models were painted Beluga Black.
Beluga Black was only extra cost factory option available only on the County LWB and County Sport for $300 extra
New raised plastic Range Rover stickers on hood and tailgate
New raised plastic County emblem on tailgate

RDS (signal-tracking) radio antenna was now embedded in both sides of the rear side window glass.
Black plastic under body sills had more texture.
Center caps on County LWB and County Sport with five spoke wheels said Land Rover, center caps on three spoke base wheel said Range Rover.

Interior Changes:

Available Interior Colors: Sorrell Tan & Winchester Gray leather on County Model. Saddle leather on County LWB.
Improved in car entertainment (a/d/s/ AM/FM stereo radio/cassette, CD changer, 7 speakers including a sub-woofer) on both County, County LWB, and County Sport (Models with the a/d/s/ speakers did not have a big speaker down low on the doors)
Subwoofer level control moved next to the fog light switch.
Improved cruise control
Single touch down power window switch was added to the passenger side (drivers side front window had the single touch feature since '89)
Power to sunroof and windows 45 seconds after ignition shut-off
Area around sunroof switch now smooth plastic without "fuzz stuff" on it
Electric Air Suspension (EAS) control buttons added to dash
Cubby box cup holder was connected the hinge at the rear of the box
Auto dim rear view mirror with map lights now on all three models.
Front seat belt height adjusters were changed
Rear seats are raked back more to the rear
Improved soundproofing throughout the vehicle
Rear loadspace cover and support redesigned to accommodate taller items. A small net was added to the left side and the carpet covering the subwofer and CD changer on the left side of the load area was replaces with a hard cover that had a door to access the CD's.

Range Rover Models:

County:

This was the base model this year, it had Burl Walnut

County LWB:

Priced at $4,700 above base SWB County model it was 8 inches longer and had much more rear leg room. The rear passenger compartment got seven of the extra eight inches. It also had six more cubic feet of loadspace with the rear seat folded down.
All had the 4.2L engine, electronic air suspension (EAS), All interiors were saddle leather with dual preset memory on driver's seat and outside mirrors, chrome bumpers, 5 spoke alloy wheels (painted body color) and Mediterranean Poplar wood trim, including a wood insert on the top of the transmission and transfer case shift levers (some may not have wood on the transfer case lever)
The LWB rear doors have map pockets, extra grab handles, puddle lamps and red door open warning lights like all U.S. Spec. Range Rovers front doors.
The LWB also has an additional map pocket in the front passenger kick panel.

County Sport:

This was a limited edition County SWB model with Electric Air Suspension (EAS) and silver five spoke TWR wheels. Many had a brush bar on the front and lamp guards over the rear lights.
I am not sure if other colors were offered, but all that I have seen are black with black Rang Rover and County emblems.

Other:

Defender 110 for sale in the U.S. this year. Base price was $40,575 (limited edition of 500 to America and 25 to Canada)

1994 Model

Number built 5,790 U.S. (17,090 Worldwide)
First '94 built June 22, 1993
Last 8 digits of first '94 U.S. Spec. Range Rover VIN RA640226
Base Price $47,525 (Base Model now a SWB County)
Curb Weight 4,401 lbs. SWB 4,574 lbs. LWB
Gross Vehicle Weight 6019 lbs. (SWB and LWB)

Powertrain Changes:

Fuel tank is increased to 23.4 gallons.
EPA 12 mpg city, 15 mpg highway 3.9L
EPA 13 mpg city, 16 mpg highway 4.2L

Chassis and Suspension Changes:

Air Suspension on all County SWB and County LWB models this year. It was improved with calibration changes.
SWB County has silver TWR five spoke wheels from the '93 County Sport
LWB County has pewter five spoke Cyclone wheels with quicksilver finish

Exterior Changes:

Available Paint Colors: Alpine White, British Racing Green, Carmen Red Pearl, and Beluga Black on the County model. Alpine White, Beluga Black, Mosswood, Montpellier, Plymouth Blue, Brooklands Green, and Cornish Cream on the County LWB model.
New plastic rear wiper
Black plastic trim piece below the tailgate on the rear bumper smaller
Plug in trailer receiver now says "Land Rover" ('87-'93 it said "Range Rover")
Wheel center caps now say "Land Rover" ('87-'93 it said "Range Rover")
All wheel center caps are now silver to match the wheels
VIN plate on dash is bigger, has the Land Rover logo on it, and it is attached to the dash with anti-tamper rivets in front of the round air vent
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Interior Changes:

Available Interior Colors: Sorell leather on the County and Sorell, Dark Sable, and Light Stone leather on the County LWB.
Rear cigarette lighter is deleted
Both County and County LWB have burl walnut wood.

Black plastic sill plates replaces aluminum
Upholstery no longer attached to the seats with staples, and extra insulation added.

Range Rover Models:

County LWB:

Priced at $3,300 above base model
Chrome bumpers (County SWB had black painted bumpers this year), dual preset memory on drivers seat and mirrors, burl walnut on shift handles, additional storage pockets

25th Anniversary Model:

A limited edition of 200 (250 actually made) based on the County LWB. It was introduced in July of '94. They all had Aspen Silver paint and Ash Gray leather with Dark Granite piping, TRW five spoke wheels with sparkle silver finish, embossed Anniversary logo on the front head rests and a 25th Anniversary Edition badge on the tailgate.

Other:

Discovery (base price $30,725) and Defender 90 (base price $28,495) for sale in the U.S. this year.
BMW announces purchase of Land Rover from British Aerospace on January 31st.
County SWB not imported from March '94-January '95 (when it returned as the "County Classic")
The '95 model County LWB and Discovery were introduced in March '94

1995 Model

Number built 2,494 U.S. (6,746 Worldwide)
First '95 County LWB built in Oct. '93, first sold March '94
First '95 County Classic SWB built Oct. 17, '94, first sold early '95
Last 8 digits of first '95 U.S. Spec. Range Rover VIN SA657356
Base Price $52,500 LWB and $45,625 SWB

The '95 County LWB was introduced in March of 1994 (at the same time as the '95 Discovery) and dealers received new ones until December 1994. The '95 County SWB was introduced in January of 1995 and new ones were sent to the dealers late '95. As late as May '96 there are still a few unsold brand new County Classics for sale on dealer lots in the U.S.

Curb Weight 4,628 lbs. SWB 4,807 lbs. LWB
Gross Vehicle Weight 6019 lbs. (SWB and LWB)

Powertrain Changes:

Both the 4.2L and the 3.9L got one serpentine belt replacing the separate drive belts on the alternator, PS pump and Air conditioner compressor. The air filter was changed and a new square plastic air filter enclosure replaced the round metal one to reduce intake noise on both engines.

All air conditioning systems now CFC free.

Chassis and Suspension Changes:

Frame was modified and energy-absorbing front extensions ("crush cans") were added to the front of the chassis rails. Side impact beams were added d to the front doors (and rear doors on the LWB).
Improved body and chassis isolation
Air suspension was modified for durability/serviceability
County Classic SWB got the same air pump motor as the all new Range Rover MkII

Exterior Changes:

Available Paint Colors: Beluga Black, Alpine White, and Epsom Green on County SWB model.
Beluga Black, Carmen Red, Alpine White, Plymouth Blue, Roman Bronze, Avalon Blue, Brooklands Green, and Cornish Cream on County LWB model.
Rubber bumpers added to cover the front extensions ("crush cans") at the front of the chassis rails on the now SRS compatible chrome front bumper Land Rover Classic tag on tailgate of SWB models

Accessories offered by the dealers included: A new dual airbag (SRS) compatible wrap around brush bar and heavy duty roof rack.
Front windshield was different, due to the new dash

Interior Changes:

Available Interior Colors: Tan Sorell Leather or Beige Lightstone leather (Lightstone leather was extra cost on County SWB) Some of the seats had piping in contrasting colors.
Harmon Kardon 160 watt stereo 6 with disk CD changer (CD changer optional on County SWB), eight speakers and a subwoofer with separate dash mounted subwoofer control.
Revised door panels to accommodate the new Harmon Kardon speakers
High range speakers moved from the doors to the windshield pillars like on the Discovery
New tilt steering wheel with drivers side airbag and centrally-located horn, passenger side air bag in dash
Totally redesigned dash similar to the one on the Discovery, with lighted ignition switch, passenger side glove box and built in cup holders, but with analog clock and wood trim
Transfer case shift knob and boot now black .
Automatic climate control with separate rotary temp controls for driver and passenger.

New heater box
New multi function steering column stalks similar to those on the Rover 800 sedan
Center console shift lever and cubby box were redesigned
Center console controls now back lit

Range Rover Models:

County LWB:

Priced at $7,500 above base model

Brooklands/TWR:

The body-styling kit designed by Tom Walkenshaw Racing (TWR) that was first introduced on the Brooklands model in '91 was featured in the U.S. brochure for the first time. County Classics with this kit were sold in Epsom Green and Beluga Black.

Other:

New Range Rover MkII for sale in the U.S. January of this year. Last year Range Rover Classic is imported to the U.S.

A total of 317,615 Range Rover Classics were built between 1969 and 1996 LRNA opened (or converted existing dealers) to the first "Land Rover Centres" in the U.S.

The Range Rover Classic was built through 1995 and a few were made in '96. last of 25 special 25th anniversary models (these were not sold in the U.S. and were different from the 25th anniversary. LWB sold in 1994) similar to the '95 Vogue SE (Euro County SE) but with special 25th anniversary badging on the front fenders, and a numbered anniversary plaque. All were painted Oxford Blue Metallic and had lightstone beige leather interior. Remote control alarm with random electric code selection. It will join the first Range Rover ever built on display at the British Motor Industry Heritage Trust (B.M.I.H.T.) Museum Gaydon, Warwickshire England

The above information has been secured from sources believed to be reliable, but no representations, expressed or implied are made by the author.

Range Rover sales brochures, workshop manuals, parts manuals, and other sources have been reviewed, all Land Rover sales brochures end with a quotation "Details and specifications are subject to change".

All prices are from Kelley Blue Book except where noted. All model year build numbers were sent to me by John Riley Project Eng., Traceability at Land Rover in Solihull England. The model year BUILD numbers are different from the more often quoted SALE numbers.

I would like to thank Kelly Minnick who's original list of changes to the Range Rover got me started on this as well as Jeff Kessler, Michael Carradine, Steve Willey and Oscar Montelibano who provided me with copies of all the original Range Rover sales brochures and other information. GDE owner Scott Dickinson helped me with the '91 GDE section, and Polly Welch helped me with information about her 40th anniversary. model. I also want to thank all the people that read over this and offered changes and corrections. I am currently working on a revised version of this, please E-mail me with any corrections or additions <KKelly6788@earthlink.net>

Kevin Kelly
LROA #1419
1989 Range Rover

Questions:

When did door jambs become body color? Exact date in the '90 model run.
Build date for first '89 County?
Build numbers of all special editions, LR in Solihull does not keep track of individual models.
When did alarm's start? Were they options? Were any installed in GB or all in the U.S. POE?
'94 and '95 have a smaller alarm control button, different brand?
When did most start to come with front mud flaps
Did all LWBs have front mud flaps
When did the air vents in the cowl change? '93 are different, some have screws, all?
Did any LWB models built as '94's have the new (airbag) dash? LR said '95's first built 10/94
When did the LWB logo on the tailgate change from outline to solid?
Did all LWBs have the extra grab handle on the back doors?
When did rubber at top of doors become one piece? (one piece in '93)
Did most GDEs have county on the headrests? They all don't
Did all Countys have County on the headrests?
Did any have power headrests?
Micrometer to check window thickness
Did newer Range Rovers have the rear muffler painted black?