The old range rover was born out of a desire to serve a specialized niche. Like the Jeep Wagoneer of the era, the Range Rover aimed to offer the comforts of a luxury SUV in an off-road capable package that could be put to work immediately.
Are Land Rover and Range Rover the same thing?
This wasn’t the first Land Rover to offer this type of luxury SUV, but it was certainly the first to be a true luxury vehicle. In addition to a comfortable ride and a luxurious interior, the first model offered a unique look for an automobile that was more than just an off-roader.
It was also the first to come with the “Vogue” brand that would later become a permanent feature in Land Rover’s lineup of luxury models. In fact, the Vogue was a co-branding project between the automaker and Vogue magazine that became so successful that it was eventually launched into production as one of its top-of-the-line models.
During the 26 years that it was in production, the Range Rover Classic made quite a name for itself as an off-road racer and luxury off-roader. In 1979, French rally driver Alain Genestier won the first Paris-Dakar Rally in a Range Rover Classic, and two years later Rene Metge repeated the feat.
Today, a restored early first-generation Range Rover can fetch high prices on the auction circuit. These early models are not encumbered with computers and sophisticated electronics, making them more likely to stand the test of time. However, buyers should be sure to have the car thoroughly checked by a Range Rover specialist before making a purchase.