Land Rover Discovery 1994-98

     This vehicle is about equal in performance to a Jeep Grand Cherokee or Ford Explorer.  Like most Land Rovers, the Discovery has a lot of road and mechanical noise when operating.  However, despite what it sounds like when driving, the Discovery is solidly built and survives crashes well.  The suspension is firm, absorbing most bumps while cornering tightly.  The steering takes a little too much strength to operate, and people with weak upper body strength may have a problem.  The 182-horsepower engine is a little underpowered given the vehicle’s weight. The ground clearance is good for off-road driving, but makes it difficult to step inside.  The first two rows of seats have plenty of room for adults, but the third row is best suited for children.  Towing is 2.39 tons.

Land Rover Range Rover 1988-94

    This is an SUV with excellent performance -- when it is working. In the military, we referred to vehicles with a performance record such as this (when we were being kind) as a "hangar queen," a vehicle that was just as often in the shop being serviced for some problem as out on the road.  Difficulties with the electrical system are the main complaint, and others are lost hubcaps, corroding mufflers, and a poor air suspension system.  The off-road performance of the Range Rover is especially rewarding, taking even big bumps, steep grades, and poor weather conditions with ease.  It is also "built like a tank," able to take heavy impacts and lots of damage and keep going, and protecting the occupants superbly.  The engines have good power, but suck down a lot of fuel.  Towing is 2.39 tons with the 182-horsepower engine, and 2.42 tons with the 200-horsepower engine.

Land Rover Range Rover 1995-00

     This newer version of the Range Rover goes a long way towards dispelling the Range Rover's reputation for mechanical unworthiness; however breakdowns, when they occur, are usually expensive and difficult to fix.  Dual airbags and antilock brakes add to the Range Rover's already sterling crashworthiness.  There is only one size of this newer model available, roughly the same wheelbase as the long wheelbase of the earlier model; however, the suspension is beefed up and engines stronger, and the vehicle has more capacity.  Unfortunately, the two engine choices still go through a lot of fuel.  Because of its high weight, the vehicle handles sluggishly, though the ride is comfortable, and it has the usual Land Rover off-road capability.  Towing capability is 2.43 tons with the 190-horsepower engine and 2.95 tons with the 225-horsepower engine.