SWB Safari's

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Westfalia

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Hi Guys

First post so apologies if it seems a little stupid, I'm not just new here but also not yet a LR owner. I am in the process of deciding what suits me best, keeping open minded.

Today I came across a SWB Safari, the first time I have heard of one. In the big grand scheme of things are they popular? Loved/loathed in the LR community? Easy to resell if need be?

Thanks in advance :)
 
Hello welcome should introduce yourself section first but hey any landy is good its down to personal preference and what you want it for but all great fun
 
first up no such thing as a "safari" its station wagon . Station wagons attract a premium if genuine , a lot are not , you tell by looking at the VIN, many are utility (Van) with windows and seats added . All landrovers are easy to resell , its what price you want that is the deciding factor.
What model is a personal preference thing , we all have our own opinions , but thats just an opinion :cool:
 
As mentioned, I suspect it will be a Station Wagon with a Tropical Roof - doubled skinned type (frequently called a 'Safari'). Original condition ones are quite desirable but beware of other models converted to look like a Station Wagon, as the parts to make a normal model look like one are cheap and relatively plentiful. Most old Landys are usually easy to sell....but of course at the right price and condition! :)
 
Welcome to the forum :)
As said the vehicles described as 'safari's' were, up to the end of Series production ('83/4) built with a double-skinned roof with ventilation flaps in the main roof panel. This feature was discontinued with the intro. of the 90/110 models that followed. All station wagons had, what was by LR standards, de-luxe interiors such as exta sound-proofing, improved seating, interior lining & (in some cases ie the S3 stage one) tinted glass. My own preference was for the LWB models as they rode better, didn't suffer from the pitching motion often experienced in the SWB & had 12 seats, compared to 7. The down side being an (even) poorer turning circle & marginally reduced fuel consumption. Station wagons are the most desirable of Land Rovers but the LWB, due to it's construction, is even more prone to corrosion than the standard models. Really good examples of both wheelbases are both rare & expensive, but will (if well maintained) hold their value well. To anyone used to 'normal' motoring a LR driving experience can be daunting, so make sure it's what you really want before taking the plunge. Do not fall for the old saying ''LR's are made of aluminium so don't rust'' & then take a knowledgeable (& cynical) person with you when viewing!
 
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Hi, I have a 1974 SWB Station Wagon. It has had new seats in the back, but you must bear in mind that these are far from ideal in terms of modern elf and safety, and also not terribly comfortable for long journeys. My kids love the experience of travelling in a moving gang hut. Because of the seats, there is a reduction in load space, as the wheel arches are used up, as it were. Also, because of the roof lining, door panels etc, I am reluctant to carry anything which might cause damage. This might be a drawback if you want to shift large and awkward stuff. On the plus side, it has some extras which you wouldn't get in a basic hard top, such as two-speed wipers, interior light and the afore-mentioned roof lining, which keeps condensation away. I suppose it all depends on what you want to use it for. Good luck in any case!
 
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