Buying Advice: '73 Series III

[ljkup]

I'm hoping someone here can help me with buying a Series III. Mainly concerned about pricing and what to look out for other than rust. I'm looking at a '73 RHD with a recently rebuilt engine, new suspension, seats, seals, etc. He is asking $10k for it with an odo reading of approx. 63k (which of course could be a roll over). What do you think?

 

[djaraceandrally]

Cant comment on prices in the US. But from the pictures it looks to have Diesel wings fitted (air intake). If its the 2 1/4 petrol if it has had regular oil changes and is in good tune, it should idle about 600 rpm and hardly be heardvrunning ( the petrols should be so quiet and smooth). For me, if its the Diesel I'd not take it much further unless it is completely original. They are slow, underpowered even for a series and not so economical. The petrol is a peach of a engine. It looks to have FWH, check they work as they are good to have and parts are neither cheap or plentiful if the require repair. For me it also needs a good clean and protecting underneath, but if it drives wellnand looks well rebuilt, then at approx. £7.5k in Uk money, its a reasonable when you consider how much it would be to import one from the Uk. Good S3's are fetching strong money over here now.

 

[ljkup]

Thanks for the great information djaraceandrally. It is indeed a petrol motor. I am going to go drive it tomorrow and have asked for some more details regarding rust and maintenance. Thanks again!

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[czenkov]

Unless you want RHD, $10K can buy a LHD in similar condition I am sure, or perhaps better. I actually know of one that will be coming for sale soon. It s a IIa though. Not sure it will be better or worse as I don't know this one. Good luck in whatever you decide to do.

 

[ljkup]

I don't really mind the rhd. Are there differences that I should be aware of? Maybe parts availability? Czenkov, I'd be interested in hearing more about the one you know of.

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[LR Max]

Series trucks are fine. But if you are going to be using the vehicle often and off roading it, imported 90s aren't asking much more than that. You pay a little more, but get a lot more. Its super nice having great suspension, a transmission with five gears, and disc brakes.

$10k seems to be the asking price for a truck that is in good shape. The paint is a bit rough, but everything else looks ok. I would highly suggest that before you buy ANY land rover, take it to your local independent LR shop for a pre-buy vehicle inspection. It'll turn up some stuff, just make sure it isn't anything major. Anyway, $75 could save you a couple grand.

Personally, I'd wait for a NADA truck but that is personal preference.