Short Wheelbase sizes: | None available |
Long Wheelbase sizes: | 109" : 1978-83(Up until '85 for back-orders) |
Engines (Petrol) : | 3528cc V8 (detuned Range Rover engine) : 1978-85 |
Engines (Diesel) : | The Stage 1 was only available with the Rover V8 |
Officially labeled as the "Land-Rover V8" by the Marketing Department, but Stage One by everybody else (After the stage of Land-Rovers re-development).
This was an effort to increase dwindling sales of the Series 3 and shared many of the same parts. The engine chosen was the Ex-Buick V8 that was used in the Range-Rover. It was detuned for the Land-Rover, which was available in Long Wheelbase version only.
(From left to right): Detail of the graphics on the side; Demonstration of the all-new flat grill ; A view of the back and similarities between it and the Series 3
Unfortunately the engine wouldn't fit in the Series 3 engine bay. The V8 radiator was too large for the engine compartment in the Series 3. In order to accommodate the new engine they moved the grill forwards and lengthened the bonnet.
This design looked gave the Land-Rover a more futuristic look. In addition this model was given full-time drive to all wheel, similar to the Range Rover.
Stage 2 was yet to follow...