Description
NOTE: Cult Classics offer vehicles for sale in all conditions, this vehicle is listed under our Restoration Project section on our website, where you will find a lot more photos including a complete underside photo selection.
This is a very exciting find, a genuine 1990 V8 3 door Discovery on factory carburettors!!
These very early Discovery’s are the Holy Grail for collectors as the carb version was superseded very quickly in favour of fuel injection. Comparable to the suffix A Range Rovers, they have become very collectible, and prices are only going in one direction!
This car was registered in May 1990 and is showing 147377 miles recorded. It starts, runs, drives and is structurally sound but we have listed it in the Restoration Projects section of our website as it could benefit from some cosmetic attention.
Drivetrain
The engine is one of the nicest Rover V8’s we have heard running in a while, no metallic sounds, really smooth and responsive and plenty of grunt. The exhaust is blowing a bit but apart from that it sounds superb. The gearbox feels tight with no grinding or synchro issues the clutch is smooth with a nice biting point and it drives and stops really well. Some slight off side suspension lean which you will probably know is the norm on this chassis set up. Coolant runs nicely up to temperature and the gauges are all working etc. The steering box feels a bit notchy, probably where it has been tightened up over the years, probably time for a refurbishment.
Body and Chassis
It has recently been MOT’d although now expired as of February 23. It is solid throughout with welding having taken place in recent years to the inner arches, sills, jacking points and body mounts. It all appears to have been executed to a good repair standard. We prefer complete panel replacement for better aesthetic, but it is functional, solid, and safe. The bodywork is very straight and the paint work appears to be all original, though it is a tad tired in places.
The Interior
In very original used condition, it has the earlier solid headlining, so no sag issues there, seats and carpets would benefit from a damn good clean but they are all in tact with no rips or tears.
It has the original fold away boot seats and a load liner. The originality is incredible inside, the original steering wheel is still there, they were often changed for sportier numbers and our favourite bit, the original Discovery radio cassette is still in place and fully functional!
Documentation, Keys and Spares
It has a V5c, Original service book which is full of stamps with no room left from earlier in its life, Original Owner’s Manual in the correct lever arch style. A raft of recent invoices for various parts and serviceable items keeping it on the road. Lots of old MOT’s etc. A very nice history file which you rarely see with these cars. It currently has hi flow cone air filters fitted but the original air box comes with the car and there are also a set of mud flaps.
Summary
So, summing up, this is an incredible opportunity to own, with the exception of a GWAC, the rarest of the rare when it comes to a Land Rover Discovery. You could just MOT it and use it straight away, however we feel it deserves some attentive love first!
As with all our restoration projects, we have described this Discovery honestly and with transparency allowing you to make an informed decision. We also highly recommend that you come and view the car which can be done by appointment at our Tewkesbury HQ, Mon -Sat.
