Soon to be RR newbie, advice needed !

Hi everyone,

I've decided to buy a used RR and am looking to buy one from around 2004/2005 as i think thats the best for around £15k to £16k ?
I would like some advice on exactly which model to go for, I'm thinking of the facelift vogue model of around that time with the Harman/Kardon logic 7 sound system and the touchscreen display ?

Any advice appreciated, especially which engine to go for, which model and running costs as I have no idea what to expect as yet. I currently have a BMW 525D and they are expensive to run anyway, but will i end up paying more on a RR ? I know the road tax is £405 but unsure of servicing costs etc

Thanks in advance for any advice offered,
Redfreddie

best place for servicing costs it to ring your local dealer and ask for costs. I had a 2003 L322 Vogue- a 4.4 V8. In My opinion, the td6 is too underpowered for such a big car. I test drove a few, and they were very noisy, sluggish, and couldnt really overtake. The V8 on the other hand was really good. Its a BMW 745i engine, with a bit more torque and a tougher sump, If I recall. The fuel consumption is around 16-18mpg (combined), but it is smooth, comfortable and you can overtake if you need to.
The Diesels usually command a premium over Petrols, so depending on how long you plan on keeping the car, and how many miles you plan on doing, the price overall (purchase price, plus fuel for say 2 years at 10,000miles) could be almost the same. Find a LPG converted v8 and bobs your uncle.

Mine was pre facelift so couldnt tell you bout touch screen nav etc. But the range Rover is an awesome car. A capable off roader, although you dont see many people taking them off road. Massively comfortable and with loads of options.
If you are intending on travelling, off roading etc, have a look for an ex g4 challenge RR. I'm not sure when they stopped using RRs and turned to RR Sport, but they are both excellent, usually very low (20,000 ish) miles, and massively specced.

My car was 5-6 years old when I had it. They arent cheap to repair. A steering rack was around £800, a radiator about £400. LAbour from Land rover is about 80-100 per hour, and electronics werent the strong point of the Range Rover. Electrical gremlins usually have three outcomes
Very expensive fault finding from dealer - fixes problem
Very expensive fault finding from dealer - problem remains
Live with problem
Some independent dealers can sort some issues, but not all have the necessary diagnostic kit.

Overall, an excellent car, perfect for taking the family out, going shopping at ikea, driving in any weather, looking quite smart at events/functions etc.

I would buy one again, without a doubt, if it fitted my needs, but at the moment, a 110 suits me more..

Hope this helps.

Thanks for that Mike, very usefull info, much appreciated