1979 Land Rover Series 3 109 from UK and Ireland - Comments

A braking problem led to the renewal of the entire braking system - poor quality replacements meant doing some jobs twice!

Chassis cracked behind a front spring hanger (a common weak spot - check!).

Heater valve packed up whilst on holiday spraying coolant in the air in a fine impression of the Trevi Fountain!

General corrosion and rot although the bulkhead is at least sound - electrolytic reaction between the aluminium panels and steel structure being the main cause.

The best 4X4 by far? Easily - but unless you are prepared to put time and effort into repair and upkeep, don't even think about it unless you can afford a professionally restored example.

These vehicles are fun to drive on and off road, but can be heavy and hard work - the turning circle leaves much to be desired and the gearchange awkward (you do know how to double-declutch don't you?)

2 1/4 diesel is underpowered especially in the 109 (LWB), but torque is excellent - show a Land Rover a steep muddy slope and it'll climb it, in it's own time though!

If speed is your thing forget it, although mine managed a respectable 60mph average cruising speed Sheffield - Cornwall.

You won't get anywhere fast, and forget trying to hear the radio, but you'll have a huge grin when you finally get where you are going!

Have to disagree with you about the speed my 2.25 109 5 door will get 85mph easy and sit there and will just about hit 90mph and the 0-60 isn't half bad some thing must be up with your engine or gear box.

Just a small reminder Ladies & Gentlemen, the top speed limit in the U. K is 70mph.

You cannot have full control of this type of vehicle over 70mph and are more likely to cause an accident or be unable to stop in time without problems if an accident happens in front of you - No one is a good enough driver to stop it happening.

Yes 70 MPH, what a bummer eh? should be at least 90.

I cannot understand someone saying the speed limit should be 90MPH.

Do you want to die - because at that speed there is a good chance you will

Cars are designed to protect their occupants yes but no at speeds higher than those designated,

you are more likely to be involved in an accident (even though you didn't cause it)

Those limits were introduced in a very different time, its not just the fact that the cars stop in half the distance than they used to, or that you are much better protected in them these days. But as our economy and quality of life rises we need a good fast flowing road network. Unfortunately certain groups are doing they're very best to slow everything down and drive us out of our cars. And I am only refering to motorway limits.

85mph in a series Landy! Are you a fisherman as well? 50-60 mph is about it. Mine, (swb, 2.25 petrol) is happiest at 50mph, and so am I.