After years of wanting a land Rover, I finally have one

Hello,

Years after learning to drive in my Dad's Series IIa on the farm and having wanted a Land Rover of my own for years (ideally a Series III 109, but would happily accept a Defender, Discovery of Range Rover Classic) I have acquired a 1999 Freelander 1.8.

I can't complain, it was free, unfortunate circumstances admittedly (my Father-in-Law died a couple of months ago and his wife suggested I have the Freelander, as they're not exactly worth a lot she wasn't bothered about selling it).

It's in good condition, he spent a lot of money on it over the years he had it, sorted all the problems and left a very nice vehicle, the only thing he ever moaned about was the fuel consumption. That doesn't bother me really, previous car was a PT Cruiser (don't laugh it's a good car).

The only thing I'm having to come to terms with is 1990's ergonomics (or lack of).

The only thing he never changed on it was the VCU, so going to sort that out soon. It needs to be done, it's got a drive to Paris in October, the PT did it last year, so hopefully the Freelander can do it too.

I'm in my late forties, live in Telford and have no need whatsoever for a 4x4, but don't care. I want (need) a Land Rover and hope this one's the start of many.

Bob

Hello and welcome once you had one its like an addiction you'll keep wanting enjoy it

As you have no intention of off-roading it, may I suggest that you remove the propshaft and use it as a 2wd.
You should gain a couple of mpg, but more importantly you will eliminate the transmission wind up and therefore improve its reliability.
For your road trip to Paris this is well worth doing. You can always bolt it back on should you ever foresee the need for 4wd at a later date.