Of all the years they made the DI what, if any is the best year? Is there any year(s) to avoid? I gotta have one. I'm trying to find out as much as I can before I buy one. Thanks.

 

The DI doesn't really have a "good" year like the DII's. They are basically the same throughout. The '94-'95 does not utilize the electronic ignition like the '96 and newer. Pre-96 was a 3.9L V8 while the '96 and up used the 4.0L V8. Because of the different ignition the pre-96 used an ignition coil and distributor. '96 and up are OBDII while the pre-96 is OBDI. The only other major differences are the 4.0L engine has larger, cross-bolted main bearings, revised pistons, and a revised intake. Short lesson on the DI. Hope it helps.

 

Depending upon the state emission requirements where you live, there could be a point to consider.

96 and later are subject to emission control testing, 95 and earlier are not. At least that is the way PA does it.

Also the 96 and later are more complex with the ECU and so forth where the 95 and earlier are carbed with points/rotor in the distributor, 96 and newer are solid state.

 

1994's and 1995's the first models in the U.S.A. "NAS" where fuel injected.
The 3.9 and the 4.0 are the same displacement, 3947 cc it was a round up thing.

The 94 & 95 did have distributors, NAS.
The big thing is to look for rust.

I like having the OBD II for scanning to see what is wrong so I feel its better for a do it your self person.

Good Hunting.

 

1997 is the best year in my opinion.

 

Thanks a ton for the input guys I really appreciate it. I had looked at a 99 DII but I've decided I want to get a DI. The DII's seem to have a lot of problems. Plus the DI seems to be more DIY friendly. Again thanks for the help and hopefully I'll be posting up some pics of my own rig pretty soon.

 

I agree with spike,LOL

Conventional wisdom is usually towards the end of a production run (not the end)
the bugs are out - shows you about conventional wisdom @ LR.

There's merit to those who say the early 4.0's were better quality in regards to engine block/liners

If I were to build one, I'd look for a '95, if I wanted a family driver, I'd get a'97 or '98
and budget a bumper to bumper refresh.

luck,greg

 

I think late-97 to 99 are the best years for D1s. In the middle of the 97 model year Rover changed from roto-flex at the rear differential to an actual u-joint. I much prefer the u-joint. If you plan to install a lift the u-joint is even more important IMO. All Discoveries imported into this country are fuel injected. The D1 uses GEMS engine management while D2s were changed to Bosch. The Disco really is not as complicated as people try to make them out to be. A good OBD2 scanner is a must have tool for 96 and later models. I personally when I'm in the market for another Disco will be looking for an early 99 model. Unlike the D2 there really aren't any particular years or models with the D1 to avoid all together.

 

the best D1 to buy is one that is rust free and well maintained (with records), there are small differences like distributors and rotoflexes but these are all non issues if its well maintained.

 

Slight correction... the '94 -'95 uses the 14CUX fuel injection management system and has a distributor.

Personally I like the Dizzy and 14CUX system... slightly fewer computer related issues and relatively easy to diagnose probs.

Having said that I agree with Tweak. Just find one that was well maintained with records