Beschreibung
This immaculate 3. 9i V8 Disco is a JDM import and in absolutely fantastic condition inside and out – imported into the UK in 2017. It shows under 41, 000 miles on the odometer, and the condition supports this. The VIN shows it was built at Solihull in 1998 (as it would be, being the 50th anniversary model). However, the V5 states it was built in 1999. Being a special model, it is in Atlantis Blue metallic with full ‘lightstone’ leather interior. It also has cruise control, heated front seats, air conditioning, heated front and rear screens, twin electric sunroofs, front fog lamps and two occasional seats in the rear compartment (also in leather), so it’s a full 7-seater. There is a beautiful drop-down rear step for access that automatically retracts.
Externally, the paintwork is amazing – no rot or rust – just a few tiny areas on the doors where the aluminium at the base of the window frames has been rubbed down and touched-in. It is not fitted with a tow bar and, by the look of it, never has been.
Inside, everything is original including the radio/ cassette player (with a 6 CD changer under the driver’s seat). The cassette player has had a new drive band fitted. The only change I have made is to fit a 4 x USB/ clock panel from ‘Fourby’, though the original is supplied. The condition of the leather seats and carpets is remarkably good and the headlining has absolutely no sags. The ‘50th Anniversary’ over rugs are still present, though I have fitted O/ E rubber mats. Everything works as it should, though the A/ C may need a re-gas. On the plus side, everything is operated by proper buttons, knobs and switches – what a relief! Mind you, the layout of the various buttons and switches is a bit ‘English’.
The original owner’s book pack is still present (in Japanese) and I have an English version too.
Since I bought it I have changed the shock absorbers all round (Koni fronts and Bilstein B6 rears), replaced the steering damper for a Koni unit, and replaced the front discs and pads. Enginewise, I have replaced the HT leads, distributor cap and rotor arm, and the ignition amplifier and fitted a new O/ E spec Bosch coil – all just for reliability. New engine oil and filter, together with both front and rear axles, and transfer box have had an oil change – magnetic plugs fitted in the axles. The auto gearbox oil is absolutely clean – it is a ZF 4-speed.
The original jack and handle are in the engine compart storage tray, and the roof rails and rare rail removal tool are in their bag under the rear passenger seat.
The driving experience is simply regal – everything mechanical is confidently quiet and it drives as if new. The tyres are all-terrain but quiet enough for motorway jaunts. Unlike more modern cars, with this Disco you can actively seek out potholes just to see if you can feel them!
I bought this car as a bit of a luxury for longer journeys – and no touch screens in sight, but then they brought out the new Defender V8…………
The MOT is due in July, but I will provide a new one with the sale. There aren't many Disco 1's out there in this sort of condition. This vehicle can quietly waft along at speed and comfort, or tackle the toughest terrain. Everything works and it looks, inside and out, as if it has just come from the factory.
