Launched in 1970 to widespread critical acclaim and loved by the motoring press, drivers and workers alike, the first-generation Range Rover (now referred to as the Range Rover Classic) would go on to be a true motoring icon, with everyone from farmers to the royal family enjoying the classless experience offered by the Range Rover.
Identifiable by the last letter (suffix) of their VIN, the Range Rover Classic went through a number of refinements, upgrades and alterations throughout its lifetime, with ‘D’ suffix cars - such as the one we have here - being introduced in 1974, and lasting until the 1978 model year.
This particular Classic is a mid-production Suffix ‘D’ model registered in 1976 finished in gorgeous Sahara Beige, which was delivered to Italy and purchased by a wealthy industrialist in the Lake Garda area, as part of their extensive car collection.
Having been kept in fantastic condition with minimal use by the first owner and used only on the best-possible asphalt roads in the region, our vendor has been on the hunt for a Range Rover and aware of this example for a number of years before finally purchasing the car.
During their ownership, the vendor has fitted four new matching tyres, new discs and pads throughout and refreshed the suspension with new shock absorbers. This Suffix D example also benefits from a full new interior, which was purchased from UK specialist Kingsley in August 2021.
Reportedly in nigh-on immaculate condition, our vendor states the car would be good enough to go in to a museum, saying its one of the “best preserved” examples available in Europe.
Included with the car is the ASI certificate, registration document and the record of the most recent service which is kept on the inner edge of the driver’s door.
It should be noted that this Range Rover has recently gained its Certificato di Rilevansza Storica (CRS) which was certified by the ASI, and it is believed that no other Range Rover has obtained this certificate within Italy.
Extensively replaced and refurbished courtesy of the specialists at Kingsley Range Rover, a full new interior was purchased and fitted by our vendor earlier this year, with the result being a nigh-on immaculate cabin on this Classic Range Rover.
The carpets are virtually unmarked throughout, even in high-traffic areas such as the front footwells and the rear load area. The seats, too, are in excellent condition, with only a few minor marks being noted on the rear bench back and the usual light patina to the front seats, along with a tiny rip in the left-hand side of the passenger seat base and a tiny hole in the rear seat back.
The dashboard, steering wheel and gear shifter are in wonderful condition and wear only a very light usage patina, whilst the door cards are also excellent and only lightly worn.
There are no reported faults with any of the electrics or switchgear within the vehicle.
Evidently cherished and cosseted throughout its lifetime, including by the current owner, the bodywork and paint on this timeless classic has been preserved in outstanding order, and presents fantastically throughout.
As far as we can see, there is very little sign of use or wear to the paintwork, bumpers or wheels, and no sign of any impact damage, dents or misaligned panels on the bodywork.
All of the light lenses are free from damage, and being a dry climate car for its entire life has evidently paid dividends for the preservation of the car’s bodywork. Keen Range Rover enthusiasts will know the covering on the rear C-pillars is often subject to wear, but we can’t see any signs of peeling or damage on this particular example.
The correct badging on the front wings is in place, and all four wheels are free of any kerb rash or noticeable marks, and wrapped in matching Michelin rubber with plenty of life left.
Powered by the venerable and reliable 3.5-litre Rover V8 mated to a four-speed manual transmission, this Range Rover Classic is in rude mechanical health, and shows no sign of any untoward issues, leaks or problems brewing under the surface.
Our vendor reports that they regularly use the car to travel around their home town of Turin, along with occasional motorway runs where the car is reported to be “safe, linear and reliable” out on the road at speed - good news all round.
If that wasn’t good enough, this ‘Classic’ has also been recently serviced - during May 2021 at 15,150km with an oil and filter service, new differential oil and a fuel filter, meaning it’s ready for the next custodian to simply jump in and enjoy.
In outstanding condition throughout, mechanically sound and from a dry climate country, this must be a true ‘holy grail’ car for any early three-door Range Rover Classic enthusiasts, and is an opportunity not to be missed by drivers, collectors or enthusiasts alike.
Notice to bidders
Although every care is taken to ensure this listing is as factual and transparent as possible, all details within the listing are subject to the information provided to us by the seller. Car & Classic does not take responsibility for any information missing from the listing. Please ensure you are satisfied with the vehicle description and all information provided before placing a bid.
As is normal for most auctions, this vehicle is sold as seen, and therefore the Sale of Goods Act 1979 does not apply. All bids are legally binding once placed. Any winning bidder who withdraws from a sale, is subject to our bidders fee charge. Please see our FAQs and T&C's for further information. Viewings of vehicles are encouraged, but entirely at the seller's discretion.
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1976 Range Rover Suffix D
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