What are the reasons you bought your Disco

[mightgeta4be]

Many of you have strong reasons for buying your Discovery. Lets hear some of them. Is it the handling, the motor , The comfort, the price, you got a deal you couldn't refuse. do you think it's a better vehicle than the competition. Has it lived up to your expectations and would you buy another. ( I know a lot of you allready have)
Well ! lets hear some of your answers:whistling:

[dirtdawg]

price did it for me for the money there was no comparison against a nissan or toyata the disco had every thing i wanted power windows, aircon,v8 on gas, no mods and it was well looked after

http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a36/matto25/mydisco5.jpg

[loanrangie]

I have had 2 old rangies and with a 3yo and another on the way i needed a comfortable car that wifey would like driving, economy was a factor for the tdi but it came down to the right car at the right time with great service history. If a tdi fender with similar service history came up at the same time i still would have got the disco as it was what we needed at the time.

[McDisco]

Me and my partner bought a Disco as we needed a single car that would be good around Melbourne, is comfortable, modern but more importantly something that could really handle itself off road and as a tourer.

Would I get something else now that I have owned it for 3 years? Depend on what day you ask me! :o Lately it has cost a fair bit, but I love the driving position in the car, its ability in the rough stuff and the Td5 is a ripper little engine when chipped. And the way I figure the breakages all make the car more tougher and reliable.

And I love debunking the Disco stereotype too! Mine is certainly not a Toorak tractor...she gets a hard life!:D

Cheers

Angus

[trev]

Yes! if you get a good one you get a good one.
I did a 16000Km trip last year with only a couple of minor problems.I like the driving position and the great overbonnet view which lets you position the car well in most situations.
The vehicle not only looks solid but will take a few knocks as well.
Like all cars they have their problems...electrics,radiator, funny quirky things etc. but I feel safe in it.That`s important to me.
Service and parts sometimes pricey but nothing compared to my Son`s Alfa.
It`s all relative.
If anyone asked me would I get another Disco; For sure!

[Utemad]

Off road ability, power, comfort, price.

[agrojnr]

I just love them (this is my 3rd) but I really miss my stage 1 V8:(


Once I finish the disco though it will be better than the Stage 1:cool:


Adam

[Lotz-A-Landies]

I have kept my classic Rangie because I couldn't see the value in a Disco.

Diana

[loanrangie]

I have kept my classic Rangie because I couldn't see the value in a Disco.

Diana

That doesnt quite fit in with the thread ? Depends what year RRC , i have an 81 2dr and had an 85 4dr, to me a newer rrc was of no value- just another old rangie that needed a lot spent on it.

[2 rocks]

I started 4wheeling with BJ70 Cruiser which I have to say was brilliant (and if they'd only put that motor in the Hilux of the day...).
Had Luxes, MQ Patrol, then a V8 D1. I knew I loved Discos from the day we got it. I looked at Counties and Deefers but at 6'4" - dunno it just didn't work for me, though I have to say the seating position of my '94 facelift was never right.

So after three series 1 Pajeros (which astounded me with economy, reliability and offroad ability given the IFS) I wanted something more and a return to a live front end.

6 months ago I was set on a either a 100 Series or a GU 4.2 turbo and about to sign for a GU when my better half exited stage left...

I had to revise my budget and came across my D2...with UHF, long range tank, s/steel intercooler, air compressor and 140kw chip already installed I couldn't say "no". On top of that the driving position was ideal, compared to my D1. I've fixed a lot of things the two previous owners thought were too hard or couldn't be bothered with and I love it.

Would I buy another one - yes. But in a few years...I don't know what I'd replace it with...have to see how the D3's go...
Mike

[Lotz-A-Landies]

That doesnt quite fit in with the thread ? Depends what year RRC , i have an 81 2dr and had an 85 4dr, to me a newer rrc was of no value- just another old rangie that needed a lot spent on it.
Did you have the RRc all it's life or even most of it's life and maintained it well?

If you did, then ask yourself the question again.

Diana

[Ken]

For me its the freedom the ride the engine the seating position the fact that not everyone drives them and most of all Landrovers Rock
I have done over 50,000 kays in mine and all Ive replaced is a front propshaft and manifold gaskets apart from regular maintenance thats cheap driving in my book ;)

[Pedro_The_Swift]

Many of you have strong reasons for buying your Discovery. Lets hear some of them. Is it the handling, the motor , The comfort, the price, you got a deal you couldn't refuse. do you think it's a better vehicle than the competition. Has it lived up to your expectations and would you buy another. ( I know a lot of you allready have)
Well ! lets hear some of your answers:whistling:


heres a blast from the past---
and tailor[;)] made for just this question,,,, again,,

http://www.aulro.com/afvb/yarns-tales-rants/18389-only-disco.html

[mightgeta4be]

Great to read, I can rattle off similar stories but they involve dirt bikes as I am yet to experience 4wd. Your insite into your confidence of the disco is good to hear. From the replys I am reading. Its all about good choice of the vehicle you buy and good maintenance and the great driving enjoyment will follow.

[WildOne]

All my mates drive cruisers and patrols and are all very capable trucks some with more mods that others. When i was looking for a 4bee i came across my Disco in a toyota car lot, i took it for a test drive more out of curiosity that anything else. I was hooked, comfy to drive, great seating position, loads of features and a great price, was $10K cheeper that a hilux with double the milage!!!
Have to say though that you've gotta have deep pockets or be handy on the spanners as there is a fair bit of upkeep sorting small issues on a vehicle with 165K on the clock that have to be done before they become larger issues.
Things like fragile coolant pipes and burnt/melted wiring and split-tube.:eek::eek:
Great vehicle, enjoy driving it, enjoy working on it. Would i buy another? In a heartbeat!!!! Perhaps a V8 as a plaything:angel:

[loanrangie]

Did you have the RRc all it's life or even most of it's life and maintained it well?

If you did, then ask yourself the question again.

Diana

I bought the 81 in '94 and its given me little trouble but was getting tired, '85 i got in 2002 sold 2006, previous owner had reciepts for over $7500 for work done but again at nearly 20 years old things just wear out that are un economical to repair. No one asked why do you still drive an RRC ?

[Redback]

Pretty much what everyone has said, although my story is similar to PhillWilde, we got ours from a Toyota yard as well and also most of the guys i travel with have either a Patrol or Cruiser, Discowhite being the exception.

After driving everything, we were getting pretty disapointed, other peoples perception of whats good or bad is so very different, so one last drive of a car and it was really the guys here and a visit to one of Aces BBQs (in the Explorer) that made us look at a Land Rover.

As luck would have it, after we drowned the Explorer thats when we found the Disco to test drive, it is almost impossible to get a drive of a Land Rover.

We found one D2 to drive at a yard in Milpera and took it for a drive, that's when we knew this was the 4WD for us, it was so much better to drive than anything previous and the only one that all 3 of us liked as a driver and passenger.

After that we searched for one to buy, we finally found one on the internet in Warnanbool Toyota and after a friend took it for a 2 hour test drive, we bought it.

Although we did come close to buying a Fender, after Noddy gave us a drive of his and also, we came close to buying a 100s Cruiser after a friend loaned us his Cruiser to drive around for 2 weeks, loved Noddys Fender, but didn't like the Cruiser, a bit boat like for me.

Until now Disco has been great, sure we've had some minor problems but at no stage has it stopped us doing a trip or even broken down, even now with the gearbox problem it is still drivable and i realy like it, i probably like it as much as i like motorbikes and i can't remember ever being without a motorbike, it's just a great car too drive.

Will we buy another, you betchya bloody left ball we will, a D3 or even a Defender maybe, either way it will be a Land Rover.

Baz.

[BradM]

Hi,
I was given a 2000 Disco TD5 Auto with SLS as a company car in Alice Springs when I joined NEC as the BDM for the Northern Territory. It had 3 months left on the lease to run out.

When the lease ran out they gave me a Arrrrgggh!!! "Toyota Prado" heap of junk and I missed the Disco so much I traded in my 2.8TD Patrol and the wifes 1997 EL Ghia (with 5 l tickford engine, not popular for a while) on a brand new MY2003 Disco TD5 auto.

It is so good to be able to take it to town and be able to still get in the car parking stations plus turn around in the street width. Off road there is not a lot to compare with it and as a fuel efficient tow horse you cannot beat it. They certainly came up with a great piece of machinery with the 2003 & 2004Disco's.

I have had withdrawl symptons over the last 4 years with the GQ Patrol though and have just bought an old 1989 petrol/gas one with 2" lift to play with.

I will never part with the MY2003 though. :)

BradM

[discomuzz]

We've had the '98 TDi for while now and ALL of the family love it!

I don't mind swinging a few spanners so the maintenance is good fun rather than a chore. Really well thought-out engine layout makes replacement of dodgy bits easy (e.g PAS pump and water pump replacement, complete job - 3 hrs, total cost $470.00).

The missus thinks she is the Queen, the 14 y.o daughter's ego is massaged and the 16 y.o. son has decided to buy a SWB Toyo/Nisso/LR/ thingy rather than a WRX Imprezza.

Really couldn't be happier and can't see myself not having Disco in the family for all time!

Cheers
Murray

[rabs999]

I've always wanted to own a series II Disco. They're a great looking truck. Look like nothing else on the road, instantly recognisable.
Imported an '02 V8 ES with super low km's from Japan which we've only had on the road since last week, so obviously have very limited experience owning one, however we're loving it so far. Everything works...at the mo! SLS and ACE are excellent features.
As mentioned by others the driving position is awesome, never been able to see the road and the front of the vehicle so well before.
The ability to privately import one saved me thousands compared to dealer prices, made it a no brainer in terms of inital cost.
It's loaded with so many options, elec/heated front seats, full leather, excellent stereo, dual zone climate air etc etc. All makes for a pleasant driving experience.
Wifey feels super safe in a European 4x4, a big consideration carting kids around, especially when compared to the Jap MPV we had before.
I wanted a vehicle that could tow the boat and enable us to launch off beaches, tow on loose metal roads, and take us all camping.

Would I own another? I need to get to know this one first, and don't see myself selling it any time soon. Plus I have a few plans to make it go a bit better and frankly give me something mechanical to work on...don't own a motorcycle anymore so need something to fulfil the petrol head need!

[29dinosaur]

Imported an '02 V8 ES with super low km's from Japan


How did you go about doing this? Costs - savings - time frame to achieve??

[jf1056]

I started with a series 1 with a 308 v8, kept breaking axles and couldn't work out why! :confused: I was 18 at the time! Had a series 2a for 6 years and explored most of Oz in it with no trouble. Various other forbies in between then a 97 s1 disco. Great car, 300tdi auto, the wife loved it and with over 400,00k's when sold I spent very little on it. Shows what good maintenance can do. I sold it and bought a brand new '06 GU 4 with the ZD30 diesel. Did all the mods, bilsteins, 2" lift bullbar etc. Great car and no issues, did all it was supposed to do. THE WIFE WOULDN'T DRIVE IT!! So, after only 12 months, the only logical thing to do was sell it and go back to a Disco. We did, s2 auto td5 2000 model. Complete with blown exhaust manifold, wire loom leaking into ecu and shocks shot. With only 170,000ks on the clock and costing $8k from private sale, we thought, why not. About $1500 later, doing the repairs myself we are back in a Disco and the wife loves it so much she sold her Echo and drives it full time as her daily driver, even put her number plates on it, LYN58F. :mad: I get to "borrow" it on weekends and she reluctantly drives the Company ford Territory Ghia. We won't stray again and look forward to many years together!!!

The Disco and me I mean.:angel:

[RonMcGr]

Why?
To tow a caravan around Australia, AND, when the van is unhooked, go see all those places that you cannot get to in a car.

[29dinosaur]

Reason:

second hand they're cheap (cf toymotors etc)
I've always wanted on
I like the styleBetter or not

in build quality they're a load of british rubbish
in comfort they're streets ahead
handling - nothing compares at base levelLived to expectations

I don't know yet...Buy again? Maybe a td5 auto - late model - chipped and with the bugs sorted out ;):D:)

[Chucaro]

Because at thetime of purchasing no Defender was available :(

[jddisco200tdi]

I bought my 200 Tdi disco new in 1993. I went for a test in a defender first but as I could hear anything other than engine at 100 km/h I then tried the disco.
I was changing from an FJ40 and my only requirements were coils and an economical diesel engine. The opposition at the time just weren't up to it.

The disco has done everything I wanted of it including a Canning stock route trip and lots of mud plugging in the Vic high country.
But that said I have recently ordered a new defender (doesn't come till July), hope it lasts as well as the disco.

[rabs999]

How did you go about doing this? Costs - savings - time frame to achieve??

Used a semi retired chap who used to be a buyer for one of the larger European dealership chains here in NZ. He's now based in Aussie and handles the purchase in Japan on your behalf...he's essentially a broker. He organises everything from shipping to customs clearance, all you have to do is tell him what you want and how much your budget is. He'll then find what you're after. He's a top bloke and very professional.

It took approx 5 weeks for the vehicle to arrive in NZ from when we won the auction. A couple of days to get it off the wharf and typically 2-5 days for compliance, tho we hit a snag with paperwork and it took 4 weeks to get it's cert of compliance and registration application...not a typical example.

Cost through auction was 1,450,000 YEN FOB (delivered on board the ship) , or approx NZ $17,500, plus the brokers fee (the chap in aussie) of NZ $1000, shipping, customs clearance, compliance, etc was $4500. And $350 for initial registration. All up a little over $23k kiwi...this for a grade 4.5 vehicle this is highest grading possible for a 5 year old vehicle, with 18,100kms...so she's pretty well brand new. Aside from a couple of small scratches it's in mint condition inside and out and drives superbly.

The same vehicle at one of the local Land Rover dealerships, with 45,000kms and 2 owners was retailing for NZ$36k. Ours would probably go for a bit more $37-38 at a guess with such low km's and in such good nick.

He'll import to NZ and AU.

Hope this helps, can PM you his email address as well as a site that lets you view up to 25000 cars for sale any given day in Japan.

Hope this helps

[RonMcGr]

Importing from Japan must be good :D

My local Jaguar/Land Rover wrecker, buys container loads of both!
The best I've seen him import was a Bentley Turbo sedan, (his personal car) :D

[BMKal]

I learnt to drive as a kid in an old Series LR Traytop in what is now Kakadu. Was brought up by my old man to know that the definition of a 4WD is a Land Rover.

Years later, bought one of the earlier Range Rovers with the intention of using it to tow a largish caravan I had at the time. It was probably the most unreliable vehicle I have ever owned, and was pretty much useless as a tow vehicle - but was a pleasure to drive and would go places that no other 4WD's available at the time would go. Sold it in Alice Springs.

Have always liked the look of the Disco, and bought a D1 V8 from a friend in Kal who is a mechanic. This thing was faultless, but getting a bit long in the tooth & needed a few niggling repairs (headlights only held in by plastic protectors & similar minor issues), plus it was chewing a bit of juice.

Saw current D2 in the local LR dealership (before they closed shop) and traded in the D1 on it. Main reasons for buying this one in particular, and Land Rovers in general -

Fuel economy in D2, driving position, off road ability without major mods, comfort (even SWMBO likes it) and to be different from the mob - everyone's got a Jap 4WD.

I've had a few Toymotas - an 80 series GXL, a 100 series, a 95 series Prado and three 120 Prados. Of these, the 80 series was by far the best, and I'd have another if there were still any good ones available at a reasonable price. But after the last three 120 Prados (all work vehicles), the Disco wins hands down on just about everything except for build quality - I can live with that.

[mightgeta4be]

G'day BM Kal
Thats one tidy looking Disco you have, bull bar and lights look great. What brand,model is that. What areas of the Disco do you think the build quality is not up to the same level as the Prado and is it an issue anyway?

[Fleabag]

Only bought mine in September, the first I've owned and the first 4wd and V8 I've owned. On LPG.

Was looking for a new car and spotted it in a yard, looking immaculate.

I've always admired LandRovers so took it for a drive and was immediately sold on it: smooth, quiet, powerful, very comfortable and a commanding driving position (hate small cars). It sold itself to me.

I feel so good driving it and when I get out, I turn around and like the look of what I'm driving.

It's just nice to have a car you feel proud of, and I admit it is mostly a boulevard cruiser.

It's a useful car. And that sound....

[big guy]

I have had 6 Range Rovers now and was going to swap to a disco.

It did everything I wanted and asked of it, it just didn't do it for me.

I needed the character from the classic model, the is it going to start or what will I fix next.
hear the gears and drive train working and actually being involved in the driving and not just driving.

Its a life-style choice and I like it.

[Signal1]

Wanted one since my first drive of a mates parent's D1, the day after I got my P Plates. It was a '95 300Tdi, Black, Manual. Love the driving position, visibility, luxury appointments and capabilities without modification.

Did look at Cruisers and Patrols but the price premium just doesn't make sense to me. I bought a D2 Td5, made sure it's service history was impeccable and had a good 'known' history. I've had it 12 months now, prefer driving it to anything else and feel at home in it.

:wub: :wub: :wub: :wub: :wub:

[markyc]

I feel so good driving it and when I get out, I turn around and like the look of what I'm driving.


That's a great quote:D

[markd2]

HI ALL

purchased my first disco 93 mod for towing my large fishing boat, v8 on gas from that day I WAS HOOKED so was my wife and took the car for her daily driver (not happy jan) then purchased a ES v8 95 mod for myself and put it on gas, did have a lot of trouble with the 95 mod always seemed to be working on it but then it was doing 170kms per day to work and back. the 9 had 370,000kms on it when I sold it was still going strong but decide to sell before something went wrong (shouldv'e kept it).Just recently sold 95 and brought 99 td5 couldn,t believe how much power the thing produces it is a rocket ship I love it. discos are querky but thats what makes them stand out and be different from the rest. and they don't drive like a truck more car like great for the ladies
cheers all go the disco
mark

[mcrover]

Mrs Mcrover had a bloke in a Holden WB 1 tonner drive out in front of her in our old 80 series cruiser and ended up writing it off and so we bought the Disco to replace it and 4 years later I havnt regretted it at all.

[Sly712]

Grew up knowing that Landies were something special....lucky enough learnt to drive on Dad's Range Rover in the late 1980's and drove 110's during my first stint with the Army Reserve.

When found out that second bub was on it's way, I had a good reason to get a bigger vehicle. Now even with our Disco fulfilling the "little issues" reputation they have within the first week of ownership (one remote dead needing replacement, and puncture). I have fallen in love with it :D...my son loves it :D...the wife still isn't sure :(

[dullbird]

thought i would look good in one.......;):p

[mightgeta4be]

did you take a look in the mirror :alien:
Only joking,
You haven't said what the result was:Rolling:

[thebiglad]

I had in Disco when they first came out and liked it a lot - especially as it was a company vehicle !!

Now that time, money and our lifestyle (retired, living in the country with dogs and a horse) allow it, we have two.

They are strong, reliable if well looked after, comfortable and surprisingly economical for 2 tons of rolling steel.

[barjop]

In 2000 I was looking for a 4WD to to a trip to Darwin and back via outback queensland pulling a jayco camper. It needed to be a diesel and an auto. Not many of these around at the time, Cruiser, Disco S1, newer S2 and the Prado was due out at the end of the year, but TD5 and Prado to dear and Cruiser (2nd hand) to big.
2 mates and an uncle owned disco's and highly recommended. Found a gold demo wife loved it, enough said.
Towed camper really well 13000klm trip, economical, comfortable and fitted wife and 2 young kids.
I still have it after 165000klm and a 2nd 10000klm trip north last year pulling a pop top this time. I felt it was struggling this trip and getting to small for the teenagers, and was getting disheartened with it.
After chasing around I have found it would cost me twice as much as mine is worth to buy an older model Toyo with more Klm's on the clock.
I don't know why I was unhappy it never ceases to amaze me it goes everywhere even some recent tough 4WD trips to the high country and Big & Little Deserts, it just keeps going where all the other vehicles go and further than some, with supposedly better more aggressive setups and it does it in comfort. It really has only let me down in the long steep sandy hills where it runs out of puff. As I have found 4WD's all have strong points and weak points, It's just that the disco has a lot more strong points.

Build quality only real weakness, Oh and who builds vehicles with the door seals leaving the locks exposed to dust, bloody nuff nuffs

Regards

[blitz]

Why did I buy a disco?
my first car was series IIA shorty, loved it; all bar one of my cars have been 4wd's. After my marrage breakdown I was a single parent driving a ford 2wd, I cant remember the model - hated it, I drove past a used car yard with the disco out the front. I talked to the kids because I really wanted a defender but they said they would rather walk than get in something as uncool as that.

When I took them for a test drive in it they loved it.......... so I bought it, I still love it, it is much modified and when I get around to it will be much more modified.

I cant really ever see myself ever getting rid of it, I guess I have an emotional attachment to it beyond metal and plastic due to the reason why I bought it and it still does what I originally bought it for. :D:D:D

Blythe

[SenatorKang]

Hi Everyone

This thread convinced me to stop reading and start posting...

I was driving around in an '88 Astra (which we still have), things were starting to go downhill as I had a nasty habit of thrashing it. I decided I needed a new car just about the same time as my good friend's dad decided to sell the company's loan car, my '94 TDi, and his '94 Rangie. Once he talked me out of the Rangie, I turned my sights on the Disco. It was a good loan car, ARB roo bar, safari snorkel, Rhino racks, Narva spotties, and a brand spankin headliner (hoodliner? roof? ceiling?), Koni shocks (which no one knew about till I broke one and bought a set of Bilsteins)... I went down there to look at it. How does the saying go? I came, I saw, I... went as quick as I could to the bank. Much to my surprise, the bank said yes, I said YES!!! and next thing I knew I was driving away in my Disco.

I've had her for just over a year now, and yes she's given me some trouble... new turbo a month after I got it... the broken shock... the whole electricity thing... but I can see past all that, so I'll be keeping her for some time yet. I hate to say it, but I think she owns me just as much as I own her...

So far I've given her Bilsteins, Cooper ST's and a whole lot of spare parts. Soon to come are a lift, a new roof rack, something for the back, and a whole lot more spare parts. The back is the only bit I don't like, a little bland for my liking, but fortunately the front looks damn fine so it makes up for it.

Would I buy another Disco? Yes... but a facelifted Td5. Or a Defender. Not so sure about the D3 though...

[Hoffa]

I bought one today!

A 99 model in green. Its for the missus, replacing her 96 fairmont ghia. We had been looking for a 97 to 99 gls pajero but everything we looked at was a piece of :censored: , scratched, dented, little tears in the interior. Just generally untidy.

Went to a dealer today and the pajero we came to see was sold. I let her loose in the yard to see what she liked. She tried a mazda tribute, holden frontera, some little land rover (freelander I think?), another pajero, a grand cherokee and a prado. She was moving from car to car when I looked towards the gate and saw our 99 Disco. I was pretty taken with it as it was quite striking with its unusual colour (green though seems to have a gold pearl) and late mod Range Rover wheels. When I checked it out I found it was a v8 with only 128 000 kms.

As soon as the dealer fired it up I knew I had to have it. (My project is an XY fairmont with a 351 v8 so the sound was awesome!) I haven't even driven it yet, my girl drove on the test drive as it is primarily a shopping trolley/taxi for her and our child.

I can't believe the price. I cant fault it mechanically or cosmetically. It drives, stops and steers beautifully, is luxurious inside and it cost the same as a bunky, untidy pajero gls or base mod prado, both with 2x the km's and 1/10th of the character.

I hope this is the start of a beautiful relationship, although the stories I have heard of the electrical gremlins that landys / rangies are known for does make me a little nervous.

Fingers crossed:thumbsup:

[4X4V8]

It's been great reading through why everyone chose a Disco. I related to quite a few bits here and there, especially the incredible comfort, the looks and the handling on road and off-road ability out of the box.

I have had the opportunity in a couple of previous jobs to drive just about every 4WD on the market, but my favourite has always been the Disco or Rangie P38.

I know that the Land Rovers were not as well built and have had poorer production engineering than competitors - I have driven them all, repeatedly - but the LRs are much better value buying second-hand as a result.

Their core engineering is outstanding, though - far better, in my opinion, than the Jap stuff - so while I might whinge about the ridiculous things that fall apart on my Disco II V8 and the silly cost to fix it, I still love the damn thing. It's a great vehicle.

[Grumndriva]

Can't improve on 4X4V8's summary. I also love my V8. It's an affliction. Other vehicle owners wouldn't understand.
Terry
99 Series 11 V8 Auto

[Disco95]

I was looking for a 4WD, it was always going to be a Landy. I tthink the Discos are just better than the P38, and I wanted newer than a classic.
Would I buy another? Definately, been considering a D2 2003 approx.
Probably will wait till I can get a D3 though I think.

[Lucy]

In 1994, I drove my first Disco, a V8 ES and fell in love. It was my then GF's mother's car, they had borrowed my Falcon Panel Van to move some stuff, and left me with the Disco, I wasn't going to complain (well I did a bit, they could have left me with her dad's Bentley Turbo R)!

In 1999, my wife and I drove a friend's manual 300Tdi, my wife decided she liked it, and we had our own, an auto 1995 300Tdi a few months later. Sold it in 2002, when we bought a new Disco Td5, then in 2004 bought a second-hand 1994 V8i as a second car, to replace my series 2a as a daily driver (It sits in the shed awaiting some TLC). I crunched the front end of the V8i recently, insurance wrote it off, so we bought a manual 1997 300Tdi as a replacement.

So 4 Discoverys in 9 years, no major dramas in that time with any of them; would I buy another - hell yes. Why? Because I can drive 1400km in a day and do it again the next. The Wife likes driving them too. The kids love them - they can see out thanks to the high seating position and low window sills in the back. They are not the same as everything else on the road. They have a heritage/pedigree. They are Land Rovers.

Around the same time as we got the Td5, dad bought a Landcruiser 100. There has been some friendly rivalry, stuff like it will break down, it won't tow etc. Until he drove mine. Enough said!

[crash]

I was after a new 4wd to replace my 92 Navara dual cab, that was capable of towing a Jayco pop top to Darwin and back on out back roads. It had to be a Diesel, Auto, Live axles. I first did not consider the Disco due to the misconception of cost, and fortunately found a good deal on an 01 model, very competive price compared to the other brands, and trim level. First test drive had me hooked. The only other vehicle that came close was a V8 Grand Cherokee - (that was fun dragging and beating HSV's off at the lights) but it was not a diesel and was about $12,000 too much.
It has been the daily driver for my wife, and it has been pretty much trouble free 165,000 k's later. Starting to need a few things - nothing different than any other vehicle with similar age and mileage.

[astormsau]

i got a 4wd because I need to tow a horse float and enjoy camping,etc and wanted something with a decent amount of room.

I'm from a family with 6 RRC's a P38A and Defender 110 so wanted something a bit different rather than just buying another P38A

I really like the series Series 2 disco with its ACE and in some ways see it as superior to the P38A in terms of on road manners. I use it as a daily driver as well so on road handling was important, i dont do anything too extreme off road. The disco ES has most of the luxury of the P38A (it doesnt have seat position memeory and dipping side mirrors when you engage reverse) but i can live without them :P I do sometimes miss the extra power of the 4.6 and I think you get the extra power without compromising fuel economy as the 4L in the disco is pretty thirsty!

So far 3 months on and absolutly loving it, big change from a 1996 Honda CRX targa top!.

Andrew

[Stuck]

I just love them (this is my 3rd) but I really miss my stage 1 V8:(


Adam
I miss mine too but at the time I had to offload it as back then there wasn't enough room in the ute cab for me and my girlfriend and her daughter (things were getting serious and I figured we could be sticking around together for a while) so a D1 diesel was sourced at a very nice price and the flamin' thing was fearless, economical and reliable. The domestic engineer (previously mentioned girlfriend) loved the thing and when it finally succumbed to a mainshaft failure she demanded a D2 after 9 years of faithful service from the D1.
I remember my grandfathers stories about how as a bush mailman (circa 1950) he was taken from horseback, given a string of Landies and his adventures and mishaps in them. On top of that my Dad was driving semi's from the early '60's (Leylands) and moved on to Volvo's and Mercs up until his recent retirement and would never even consider a Jap diesel.

To me it's tradition.

Cheers,
Anthony.

[Discopug]

In a nut shell ??
Price, creature comfort, fuel economy,load space and load capacity, durable build and engineering.
I have always liked the Disco, my sister has owned several from new.
The cost of running the car vey nearly brought it to an end , but I can't find anything that will do the same job , so its behaving itself and I am more than happy.
Would I get another one ?? Yep 2004 model its all sorted by then , or I would put a TDv6 in mine now.( thats a 99 TD5 manual )

[Utemad]

I was pretty taken with it as it was quite striking with its unusual colour (green though seems to have a gold pearl) and late mod Range Rover wheels. When I checked it out I found it was a v8 with only 128 000 kms.

They are a great car but late model RR or D2 wheels won't fit them. The wheels must be aftermarket.

Also my 94 Disco1 has never given me any electrical problems. Nothing to worry about there. Especially since yours doesn't have airbags or ABS either.

[Hoffa]

They are a great car but late model RR or D2 wheels won't fit them. The wheels must be aftermarket.

Also my 94 Disco1 has never given me any electrical problems. Nothing to worry about there. Especially since yours doesn't have airbags or ABS either.

Cheers mate. I was told the wheels came of the previous owners fathers RR. They are 18 inch and the caps have the landrover logo on them, (they look factory to me.) The dealer told me that so it could be B.S.
Here is the wheel pic from my introduction post.

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2008/08/865.jpg

What makes them not fit? Now I am a little concerned. People say commodore rims dont fit HQ holdens when they do. They just break the wheel studs and fall off as the PCD as slightly different. Is this a similar situation?

Chris

[81stubee]

Most of these stories seem very similar.

I was looking for a Four Wheel Drive to replace my fairmont ghia in 2003, At the time I was only looking at Nisstoys because i came from the mindset, european cars are to expensive and landrovers are unreliable, etc... At the time my yet to be FIL had a 1996 Tdi. He let us borrow it for a weekend away. Needless to say I was hooked. What got me was the handling I had never realised how well a fourbee could handle, especially through the mountains and the ride was far superior to anything else. The FIL's new Prado didn't even come close when I took it up to falls a while back, I just wanted my disco back. He came around to buying a new car and offered it to me for whatever trade-in they would offer on the falcon. In the end I got it for $11000 in 2003 when Tdi's were still around the 20K mark. Never looked back. I do miss the old girl from time to time, it never once let me down, parts were cheap, and my mates were constantly surprised how good it was off-road compared to there's.

Why did I sell? In the end, the clutch got to heavy for my wife (I looked into a booster), It wouldn't fit in the garage, and we constantly found we needed more room when camping.

The P38 is a beautiful car on the road, was cheap to buy, I've always wanted one (P38 and a V8). Its taught me to appreciate how good the disco was, but it costs heaps to run and maintain.

If I had a second chance, I probably would still have sold the Tdi, but may have tried to find a way to have both. In the next few years when finances permit, will probably get a D2 or D3 :D.

One thing is for certain, I'm now hooked on the Green Oval.:)

Stu

[Utemad]

What makes them not fit? Now I am a little concerned. People say commodore rims dont fit HQ holdens when they do. They just break the wheel studs and fall off as the PCD as slightly different. Is this a similar situation?

Chris

If they came off a RR then it must have been a RR Classic as the newer RR and Disco have different PCD (by about 40mm)to the old RR and Disco and the 18in rims didn't come out til D2 (don't know if P38 RR had them).. The Disco1 has a larger PCD. No way in the world can you swap rims between a D1 or D2 or D1 and P38 RR.
So if the rims did actually come off a RR then they are still aftermarket originally. The LR centre cap would be aftermarket too no doubt. Doesn't make them no good. Just not factory.

[Rad97]

This is my Tdi discovery it has snorkel, larger intercooler, Arb bullbar, twin steel rear bar carrier, long range fuel tank 120ltr and front and rear difflocks (air operated).

I bought mine because I was originally after an 80 series Turbo diesel and at the time they were through the roof price wise, I found this one relatively cheap in comparison with nearly every thhing I needed on it plus some and by the time I bought a landcruiser it would have cost me about tripple the cost of my disco I bought it with 190 000 kms on it for $11000 I thought it was a steel.

It is more capable than the swb maverick, hilux and 60 series I have owned plus more comfortable and it looks the part when your trying to show off when I clean it that is.

Ralph.https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2008/08/958.jpg

[Disco_owner]

My reasons for buying the disco are in the following order;

1) Comfort

2) Capability

3) Economy

4) affordability in price

5) styling

++++

[Redback]

Cheers mate. I was told the wheels came of the previous owners fathers RR. They are 18 inch and the caps have the landrover logo on them, (they look factory to me.) The dealer told me that so it could be B.S.
Here is the wheel pic from my introduction post.

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2008/08/865.jpg

What makes them not fit? Now I am a little concerned. People say commodore rims dont fit HQ holdens when they do. They just break the wheel studs and fall off as the PCD as slightly different. Is this a similar situation?

Chris

Commodore rims will fit a D2 and P38a RR too.

[Romulus]

'cause I'm a sucker for Land Rover's! :D
As they say, you either love 'em or hate 'em, I just happen to love 'em!

[Disco44]

I have a 96 update (See Pic attached) I have had four other lanies from series 3's to defender utes.I wanted some comfort, economy and a go anywhere vehicle.This I achieved with the disco.It was 3 years old when I got it with 82000 k's on it .It now has 300,000 on it and has been over most parts of oz including a gruelling trip up the Old Telegraph Track to Cape York and to remote parts of West Oz and the Northern Territory and came through with flying colours. I had towed at different times my offroad camper trailer and on the easy stuff my caravan. On the trip to the cape I went with a Defender Extreme A older Cruiser and a virtually new Hi lux.Both the Tojos needed towing out a number of times , not the LR's though they went through with fliying colours

[stevo68]

Twas 1998 and I was looking at getting my first disco, had all the brochures sent out to me........but also had a passion for mercs as well. At the time, I ended up buying a new merc.............then had to sell it due to going through a divorce :mad:. Many years later...in 2004.... with a growing family and a requirement for a 7 seater we bought a new Territory. Great car, but it swung me back into looking at 4WD's as I knew it wouldn't take me to places I would want to go. Out came the D3..........love at first sight. It was time :D. Went and test drove a D3....plus some similiar brands in same price range....nothing came close. Told the dealer it had to be black, V8, with all the bells and whistles..........$110k later, she was mine :cool:.

Before it started to earn its scratches :).

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2009/08/1326.jpg

When it was out earning its scratches
https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2011/09/726.jpg
https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2011/05/972.jpg

But alas, with another mouth to feed, bringing it to total of 7 including myself, a new business and overall cost..........my precious had to go:(. The D3 is still in the family...sold it to my brother......so we catch up every now and then.........and in years to come...........my D3 will come home :D.

So along came Smoky an 03 D2 TD5, no bells and whistles bar a DVD player which I have still yet to get to work :mad: and have had Smoky for 5 mths now.

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2011/05/973.jpg
https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2008/08/856.jpg

It has taken getting some used to...no V8 power, no leather, sun roof, no ACE but SLS..........and you know what.........its a love that has grown over time.

We have yet to experience our first foray off road when no doubt the love will grow even more. I am looking forward to modifying Smoky with tyres, lift, bull bar, lockers and other accessories to take it away from looking like a little stocker. Then I think my smile will be even wider :D.

Having now owned 2 discos, I cannot see myself ever buying anything else but an LR....when $$$ permit will also add a Fender in the future and maybe even trade in SWMBO XR6 in on a new FL2....Long Live LR's :wub:

Regards

Stevo

[jimbo110]

We bought our 1995 ES 3.9 V8 auto

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2008/08/853.jpg

To replace our 1989 110 County V8 manual

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2008/08/724.jpg

For us this was the biggest mistake in our Landrover history! (i'm up to Landrover no 9 now). We were too well used to the room in the rear of the 110, we never used the Disco for an overnight trip, with the 4 of us in it there was bugger all room for any gear:(. Fuel consumption in the disco on road was quite good, but off road was horrific compared to the 110's 3.5l manual. The Disco was the one Landrover I lost alot of money on, $4,000 in 9 months of ownership, compared to $1,500 in 7 years ownership of the 110. The differences were enough that when I hinted to the wife about selling the Disco and getting a Defender, the answer wasn't "should we" or "shouldn't we" or "can we afford it", it was "how fast can we get one!" She wanted back into a 110 too.

2 Weeks later we bought the 1995 300TDI

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2011/06/156.jpg

And now we are happy campers again:D.
At the time of the changover (both private sales) the Defender was $17,000 and the Disco (same year 75,000 less KM) was $5,700. The Defender still has $17,000 agreed value insurance 2.5 years later.:D

We found the Disco to be a very good road car, but we had been "spoilt" by having the 110 before hand and couldn't handle the lack of load space.

[ERASER]

Well we bought ours because it had to be,
1- a factory v8 4wd (had previously converted a landcruiser to v8, bad idea)
2- Had to be manuel
3- had to be late model
4- had to be a basic model with no fancy electrical stuff.

Considering it was in 2001 the ONLY option was a base model 3.9 manuel disco. No ABS. no airbags, no cruise control, no sunroofs.
Its been an awsome car. Highly underated in running costs and reliabilty. Had it 7 years now and till now have only done basic oil changes myself at home and its never missed a beat. Economy is fantastic. Does 13-14 L/100 on the highway with power to climb hills at the speed limit (or higher lol..).
Almost traded it in recently on a later model but was offended at the $3500 trade in i was offered. Considering its a 99 series 1 in top nick with 150ks on it i think its worth more! So told them to shove it and decided to keep it for good. Now in the proccess of converting it from a "stocker" to a "tough tourer". Have just bought a arb winch bar, factory alloys which im fitting with 245/75/16 coopers, long range tank, winch coming shortly and a spring lift. Should make it a nice offroader and i can get back into going bush.

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2008/08/810.jpg
https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2008/08/811.jpg
https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2008/08/812.jpg

[procrastination inc]

7 seat, LPG, cheap

Big family

[PSi]

15-year itch caused by a bug that bit me in Sabah, Borneo, 1993.

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2008/08/801.jpg

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2008/08/802.jpg

[eckolsim]

Vehicle of choice - D2 TD5 :)
Reason - Mental Instability :eek:
wouldn't go back - yet.

[Zute]

I knew my Pajero inside and out and needed a new mechanical challenge.:D
But mostly, it was the price/value for money. (or so I thought at the time)

[one_iota]

Because there wasn't an '08 Defender then.

The Disco was so refined and capable at the same time

[knotty7]

You cant go past the fuel econ and comfort:D

Also just a few easy mods and they are a weapon of road:twisted:

[Bytemrk]

I bought mine for 2 reasons - Budget and Balance.....

It fitted the budget at the time and it was the right balance between a real off roader and a car I could use day to day and put clients in.

In the time I've owned it I have learned so much - it IS a real off roader..and it has taken my and my family to many wonderful places. We have never had a car we enjoyed having so much.

Would i buy another.....of course I would!!.... pick it up on Wednesday ;-)

The fuel costs where starting to make the 2000 DII 4.0l V8 less and less fun... so the solution 2003 DII TD5 or course :D....now off to research chips ..

Mark

[Pedro_The_Swift]

I bought mine for 2 reasons - Budget and Balance.....

It fitted the budget at the time and it was the right balance between a real off roader and a car I could use day to day and put clients in.

In the time I've owned it I have learned so much - it IS a real off roader..and it has taken my and my family to many wonderful places. We have never had a car we enjoyed having so much.

Would i buy another.....of course I would!!.... pick it up on Wednesday ;-)

The fuel costs where starting to make the 2000 DII 4.0l V8 less and less fun... so the solution 2003 DII TD5 or course :D....now off to research chips ..

Mark


OMG!!:(

Tell me it isnt so----

[V8Landy]

Value for money.All the mod cons you want,The ride on and off road is better than the competitors(I drove a few diff types).
Would i buy another you betcha i'm on my second and am considering buying a D2 for the wife(maybe a p38:eek:).
Ride and creature comforts are so far ahead it is not funny(to the patrol drivers):D:D

[Fusion]

Reason i bought a Disco 1 is i got to get a ride in Disco_Owners D1 at Cooma earlier this year and thought it was awesome . I'll be looking at getting a D2 in a couple of years as the family car and leave Elmo as the bush basher :twisted:.

[Bytemrk]

OMG!!:(

Tell me it isn't so----

Sorry to let you down Pedro .. its true.:angel:

Pick it up tomorrow....

Loved the V8.. great vehicle - just getting to the point the fuel consumption was killing me - so I wasn't getting out like I want to.

Found one I am happy with - great service history really clean condition and lots of extras that don't appear to have been used much.. I'll get some pics up on the weekend.


Bit of luck I'll get organised with chips and have it chipped within a week - then I won't miss the power so much.

Cheers Mark

[Pedro_The_Swift]

CHI, er, PICS:D

[Bytemrk]

CHI, er, PICS:D


I've been away a while ... nice to see somethings don't change Pedro :tease:

[Mopar360]

I finished uni in 1999 and started work as a geologist. My Charger had been put off the road by the cops, so I had my heart set on a Diesel Land Cruiser Troopy, as something different. Then I started work for an exploration company and actually had to drive Cruisers and Hiluxes. After the sore backs, bruised knees, rattling teeth, broken spring shackles, and torn off fuel lines that these vehicles provide, plus the awful fuel economy and frankly quite appalling off road ability (they do carry stuff though) that the Toyos provide, I bought a 93 200tdi Disco and still have it today, and love it.

[tempestv8]

Thanks everybody for sharing your story.

I've always been attracted to the snob value of the green oval, and the Disco II, being built on the Range Rover under pinnings, was just the right sort of vehicle for me.

When I was growing up as a wee little child in Brunei, Range Rovers were as rare as hens teeth, and I was very taken by their looks.

When I turned 28, I wasn't able to afford a new Rangie but a Disco II wasn't so out of the question.

I've seen some of Australia with my DII and maybe I should have bought a diesel so I could get to see more, but driving a bit of automotive history (the rover V8) isn't such a bad thing.

Look at where the vulnerable anciliaries are - both the alternator and a/c compressor are mounted right at the top of the engine, in between the V.

Find me a modern V8 in a 4x4 that has these things tucked up so high.....

I haven't seen one.

I suspect my DII will be around for a long time, although a D3 isn't too out of reach.... :o :D

[andymach23]

I was looking to get a good value 4x4 to tow my new boat. The rig is 1600Kg which isn't particulary heavy but I wanted to have some towing capacity in hand.


I was looking particulary at a 300 tdi or a Nissan Terrano . I won an auction for a minter Japanese Import tdi on ebay but the seller weasled out of the deal.

I then noticed that the top price tdi's weren't far off the cheapest TD5's. I spotted one for sale near where I live which was just under 4000 pounds for a year 2000 GS.

I liked the idea of the TD5 as it has three proper seat belts in the back, as I have 3 kids. There aren't many 4x4's with 3 proper belts in the back.The boot is also an excellent size for all the junk I carry about.

In the 7 months I've had it, it's been pretty labour intensive. I was panicing at first with all the things I read on the web. I've been steadily working through the problems. I've still a few jobs to do but overall it's been ok.

I got a front tow bar for it which is ideal for pushing my boat down my narrow lane way. A supreme tow vehicle, which is the main reason I got it, and a very comfortable drive.

Cheers

Andy

[Disco44]

I just love them (this is my 3rd) but I really miss my stage 1 V8:(


Once I finish the disco though it will be better than the Stage 1:cool:


Adam

I miss my stage 1 4bd1 it was an awesome vehicle . Aw well you live and you learn Hey disco44
96 disco update ..broke at the moment

[Disco44]

hey mate could you tell us all on this forum the ins and outs of importing from Japan. I looked at it and put it into the to hard basket
Cheers

[long stroke]

While we were re-building the isuzu, mum realy needed a car to tow the horse float, a cheap 200tdi disco came up on fleabay and we couldn't resist it.
After being in our disco for a year or so and after the no v8 on your L plates rule came in i decided a tdi disco would be the go for my first car (know one had a hope of talking me into another brand of car:D) Anyway i ended up with a cheap 200tdi disco:D

Will anyone talk me into another brand now?...not a hope in hell:D

Pics!!
http://img119.imageshack.us/img119/6637/lumixpics004fz6.th.jpg (http://img119.imageshack.us/my.php?image=lumixpics004fz6.jpg) MINE!!
http://img501.imageshack.us/img501/4428/03140520lv2.th.jpg (http://img501.imageshack.us/my.php?image=03140520lv2.jpg) DADS!!

CHEERS TIM.

[green man]

I have a penchant for old British cars (I have a '62 Triumph Vitesse). I bought mine because the ex liked 'em. I was originally looking for an old Mini panelvan, something to leave on the beach while surfing and not worry too much about. They proved to be rare as so I started looking at old Rangies...that morphed into newer ones which in turn became my first Discovery......a '94 V8 auto back in '99. Fell in love with it and started to mod it mildy, sold it at 276k for a 2000 Td5 in 2005 and have never looked back.

Love the shape; the comfort and the heritage behind the name. This vehicle was stock when purchased but now is morphing into a serious tourer as time goes by. I don't think I'll sell it as I don't like the D3's at all and have yet to convince my partner about the merits of a 130/110:(


:twobeers:

[Stump]

4 ton towing and good value for money to off set the MPG...:)

[Discofever]

I wanted a different 4wd that was not of Japanese make. I wanted a Discovery so I could modify it and show all those Doctors and farmers what a Disco should look like. I wanted a 4wd that would always have problems until the day it died. I like the colour green.

[sclarke]

2 simple reasons.............

1st..... the Toyota has to much road noise and feels like a truck...

2nd... The Volvo was having problems getting over speed humps in the coles car park and a disco is only good for soccer mums, carparks and Dancing

[Narangga]

I bought mine for 2 reasons - Budget and Balance.....

It fitted the budget at the time and it was the right balance between a real off roader and a car I could use day to day

Mark

Yep somes up a fair bit of mine too. Also towing a 1000kg camper came into the equation (reason for upgrade from 300Tdi) and the green oval models don't rust in the tropics. :D

[simonr23]

2 simple reasons.............

1st..... the Toyota has to much road noise and feels like a truck...

2nd... The Volvo was having problems getting over speed humps in the coles car park and a disco is only good for soccer mums, carparks and Dancing


i dont get it. you bought a disco because you think its only for soccer mums, etc...

there do seem to be alot of every vehicle on the road that arent used for their initial purpose, but if the owner enjoys the experience, then i say good on them.

[BustRucket]

I ask my self this question every day, but not in the good way.

It will be for sale very shortly.