NINETY/ONE TEN

1983 TO 1990

THE VERY first of the coil-sprung utilities still retained the 2.25 engines from the outgoing Series III, but they were soon replaced by 2.5-litre units, plus an 85 bhp turbodiesel in 1986. Many are now retro-fitted with later Tdi engines. If not looked after, they are prone to rust, but good ones defy the years and continue to perform, and there’s no shortage of spares. Prices are rising – not least because those over 25-years-old can be legally exported to the USA. BUYER’S TIP: Early models in original condition are rare.

SPECIFICATIONS 1983-1985: Engines as Series III/ Stage One V8. LT77 five-speed fitted to four-cylinder models. 19851990: 2.5-litre petrol, 80 bhp, 129 lb-ft torque; 2.5 diesel, 68 bhp, 113 lb-ft; 3.5 V8 petrol, 113 bhp, 185 lb-ft, 134 bhp from 1986. LT85 five-speed fitted to V8 models.

PRICE GUIDE Poor: £1600 – £2800 Average: £2800 – £4000 Good: £4000 – £6000 Excellent: £6000 – £13,000