1994 Range Rover Classic LSE

From its electric leather seating to its colour-coded five-spoke alloys, this is a beautifully specced example, in lovely condition and smartly presented. It was first registered on 1st February 1994, making it one of the last models before the ‘soft dash’ interiors were introduced the following month. It’s reading 114,883 miles on the clock, has an MoT until May 2024, and the present keeper tells us he recently completely a hiccough-free trip around the North Coast 500.

Being a Range Rover enthusiast and serial LSE owner, he has invested heavily in bringing this car up to scratch during his two-year ownership, and all this work is detailed in the accompanying paperwork. Works have focused on the mechanicals, including the replacement of almost all elements of the air suspension system, plus a new radiator and water pump. A little cosmetic titivation could really raise this car to the next level. 

Aside from a few gentle dings, this LSE has lovely metallic paintwork and no evidence of crumbling alloy or steel. A good-quality respray has been carried out, about 4-5 years ago by the owner’s estimation.

Our photographer has provided images of the main issues for you to inspect. You’ll see a dent on the rear-left wing and at the rear-left corner, where there is also some impact damage to the lamp/reflector unit. There is also a smaller ding near the fuel filler flap, but virtually no damage to the exterior trim. 

The tops of the rear wheel arches, visible when you open the second-row doors, commonly rot in Range Rover Classics, but these ones are immaculate – either beautifully preserved or nicely restored.

Afficionados will notice that the respray has included the D-pillars, which would originally have been black, and the car is currently missing its decals from the rear tailgate and Range Rover script along the bonnet – which could all be reinstated.

You might find small scratches and tiny areas of bubbling in a few spots, but the bodywork overall appears to have shrugged off the elements remarkably well. The insides of the doors are free from rust, as is the rear tailgate (whose upper section asks to be shoved down at the bottom corners for the latches to work properly). The little safety lights inside the doors work too.

The car sits on original-style five-spoke 16in alloy wheels, which wear a matching set of tyres in an original size of 235/70 with plenty of tread.

For safer night driving, the headlamps are LED upgrades, bought recently at a cost of £312 and reportedly delivering significantly more candlepower than the originals.

We’re pleased to report that the headlining is where it should be, firmly stuck to the ceiling – quite a rarity with Range Rover Classics. Also unusual is the presence of the parcel shelf, and the original Clarion stereo, although only one of the rear speakers is currently working.

The only other significant electrical gremlin is the non-functioning electric seats and mirrors, a fault which popped up in recent weeks. The owner suspects the cause to be the computer which sits beneath the driver’s seat.

Improvements could be made in the area of the centre console which is cracked just beneath the cubby lid, and some screw-holes have been made along one side.

Elsewhere the cabin is in good order; the walnut trim is in above average condition and the leather steering wheel (completely with buttons for the cruise control) is well preserved. The owner has had the leather seats reconnolised, and it shows – they’re looking particularly smart. The carpets present no evidence of pheasant shoots or green-lane outings, and the door seals and trim are mostly excellent, bar a few tiny details such as some frayed material along the join between the boot carpet and the lower tailgate.

Mechanically this Range Rover is in great order. The V8 is the original, and the engine bay presents no obvious issues whatsoever. You’ll find plenty of new hoses, pipes and ancillary parts dating from the last 12 months. Even the light under the bonnet works, although the under-bonnet insulation is missing. 

We are not aware of any welding required now or in the immediate future. Additional rustproofing inside the wheelarches would help preserve the car’s current strength, although the current bare patches do at least give an opportunity for an honest inspection. The chrome swivels are clean and un-pitted, there don’t appear to be any ongoing oil leaks, and there’s no build-up of mud. 

The air suspension, despite all its recent new parts, sags on the passenger side when left parked for a few days, suggesting there may be an air leak somewhere. Fortunately it pumps us as soon as the engine is running, making the car safe and drivable, but fixing the issue sooner rather than later would be recommended.

The SRS (airbag) warning light is on, so this will need to be addressed for the car’s next MoT in May. 

The previous owner, we are told, purchased the car in England and brought it home to Dundee. He had the car for about a year and carried out minor improvements before the present owner picked up the pace. Thousands have been spent during his two-year tenure. 

Much of his investment has been spent on renewing most elements of the air suspension system, including a new OEM compressor. This was bought in December last year, at the same time as a new fuel pump and sender. In the months that followed, works included an engine and gearbox service, refurbishment of the instrument cluster, plus the replacement of shock absorbers, alternator, radiator, engine gaskets, ball joints, belts, hoses, pipes, sensors, steering damper, ignition components… Too much to list here, so please take a moment to scroll through our photos of the car’s paperwork.

This is a lovely example of quite a rare Classic, ready to use, enjoy and show. Comparatively little expenditure is needed to address is flaws – mostly cosmetic – and the result could be very special.

No Range Rover can be considered easy to own, but this one should be easier than most. Recent expenses indicate great attention to detail, especially concerning the mechanicals, so it’s up to the next owner to reap those rewards.

Our estimate of only £8000-£12,000 represents exceptional value. We sold an LSE for over £36,000 a few months ago, giving some indication of the desirability of top examples. This car isn’t in that league, but it’s not a million miles away.

Viewing is strongly encouraged, and this lot is located at the Bonhams|Cars Online HQ. Viewings are strictly by appointment. To make a booking, please use the Contact Seller button at the top of the listing. Feel free to ask any questions or make observations in the comments section below, and read our ‘Frequently Asked Questions’.