Thread: Classic Vogue LWB vs P38 4.6HSE

Hey JSB. It's probably worth noting that there are two RR LWB Classics known as the LSE.

Up until 1993 the LSE was in most terms just an extended wheelbase Classic RR of the day. The 1994 LSE came with a more modern dash [known as the soft dash], some engine alterations for better reliability and polished aluminium wheels.

The air suspension [EAS] is reliable. Yes- components do wear out but it also works hard over its life so this is not surprising. Replacing worn componenets is no biggie.

I own a 1994 LSE and it is one of those rare, meticulously maintained examples of the marque. I've had it for 10 years and keep impeccable records which includes fuel consumption and also have all records from when the car was first sold. I will get back to you re the fuel consumption but I do recall Hume Highway freeway travel returning as low as 12 litres per 100 kms.

As for power - I do not have any issues with the way it performs.

I'll fetch the log book from the car and give you more detail shortly.

The 94 LSE will guzzle at least 20 litres / 100k in urban traffic. More if you like to plant the foot. Highway you should be able to get 15 litres / 100k if you drive like a granny.

Power wise the acceleration is fine (if you plant it) and mine's good for 155km/h on the flat but you'll feel it dropping back a gear on the hills.

In matters of taste there is no dispute of course, but to my mind if you like styling of the P38 you might as well get an L322. Even more bling and more faithful to the original shape in its own way. Shifted far more units too.

That's the more elegant evolution of the P38 idea to my eye.

The P38 categorically is not a sought after vehicle for the old money set. Thus they'll be $800 drive away no more to pay before too long. With $7,000 of immediate repairs around the corner! Yada, yada, yada...

Hi there

Is it alright to run the Classic on regular unleaded? My local aftermarket mechanic said that as they are low compression it is needless to run premium. Obviously it's somewhat of a saving over the long run if this is possible. What do people think?

People also talk about running a bottle of injector cleaner every three months. Would this be advisable? Probably need two bottles for a fuel tank that big! Every 3 months?

Hi JSB,

If money was no object I would

Purchase a well kept '94 model Classic LSE

Replace the 3.9 low comp engine with a properly built high compression 4.6 Rover engine at whatever the cost it takes to make it reliable.

Rebuild both the transmission and transfer case, with particular attention to replacing the viscous coupling and inspecting all drive shaft splines

Replace as many EAS components as possible with new parts to ensure reliability

Replace the ABS accumulator and flush the brake system.

Replace the fuel pump and injectors with new, improved types.

Upgrade the ignition to a new Scorcher distributor to suit the new engine.

And run it on premium unleaded.

And possibly fit injected LPG too.

This is an almost 20 year old vehicle after all. While a brilliant design some parts are going to fail in that time. A timely upgrade or three will allow it to compete in driveability with the modern stuff. Just keep in mind it'll drink like a fish no matter what you do to it, the V8 roar is seductive.

I was at Graham Coopers today, there is a LSE Soft dash advertised at the door
$11k looks tidy from the photo and described as an enthusiasts vehicle and well kept.

Why not go the whole hog and turf the RR family donk from the LSE entirely and plonk in the LS3 option and matched six speed GM transmission as currently offered by LRA?

You could hunt AMG Gelandewagens for sport at the lights...

Word is oil has just been discovered at Coober Pedy.

Maybe there is hope for the Aussie guzzlers yet!

Originally Posted by MICHELINXMS244

Why not go the whole hog and turf the RR family donk from the LSE entirely and plonk in the LS3 option and matched six speed GM transmission as currently offered by LRA?

Or go the dark side and put a decent oil burner in.

L322 BMW 6 cyl diesel with upgrades, ZF 6speed manual, LT230.

Or using tried and true components:
4BD1T, compound turbos, MSA/MXA manual, LT230.

Originally Posted by Dougal

Or go the dark side and put a decent oil burner in.


Or using tried and true components:
4BD1T, compound turbos, MSA/MXA manual, LT230.

this is the exact option I am taking, except instead of compounds, a vnt and a sals up back