FREELANDER 1

1997 TO 2006

AN AFFORDABLE entry-level Land Rover, but looking dated now. The 1.8-litre petrol engines are troublesome and best avoided. We’d opt for the more reliable diesel, which is economical and mechanically simple, but make sure it has been properly serviced, with particular attention to timing belt renewal. The later Td4 is more complicated but is chain-driven so no timing belt worries. Best news of all: the Freelander has no rust issues to worry about. BUYER’S TIP: Td4 diesel is a great secondhand buy.

SPECIFICATIONS Petrol: 1.8-litre four-cylinder petrol, 118 bhp, 121 lb-ft; 2.5-litre V6 petrol, 177 bhp, 177 lb-ft torque. Diesel: 1997-2000. 2-litre Rover four-cylinder turbo diesel, 96 bhp, 155 lb-ft torque. R380 five-speed transmission. 2000-2006: 2-litre BMW Td4, 110 bhp, 192 lb-ft.

PRICE GUIDE Poor: £400 – £700 Average: £700 – £1900 Good: £1900 – £3300 Excellent: £3300 – £6000