When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
Hi. New here.
Im looking to buy a weekend light off roader. Maybe good to go work (less than 20 miles trip). I’m between a 2006 LR3 V6 Base and a 2013 Range Rover Sport V8 HSE.
The LR3 (144k miles) looks very good outside (buckingham blue) and ok on the inside. Cost around 8k. The RR (Santorini black) needs love on the outside and inside. But the maintenance is good. The RR (83k miles) drives better than the LR3. Stronger due to the engine. But also less suspension sound, less resistant during the air suspension up/down etc. I know I will spend $$ on the RR outside paint in the future. RR cost is $10.5k
I think the body of the LR3 looks better and the third row is a plus. The RR have better tech and sunroof (that also needs maintenance). Both headliners needs replacement but the RR needs more love on the inside.
A few thoughts.
1. The LR3 is more practical for off road adventures as is has more inside space. The third (and even second) row seats can be removed and have a dedicated platform for under deck storage and a flat floor to load and unload boxes.
2. If I recall correctly, the V 6 has an achilles heal in as much as the timing chains must be replaced at or before the normal service interval to avoid failure.
3. If there is a thermostat issue, it is a single 6 hose unit with the housing molded in and at last look it was over $400.
4. Even though the list is small, there are more aftermarket items for the LR3 as it is a cousin known worldwide as a Discovery 3
I suspect since they are both an L319 platforms, mechanical (and some electrical) repairs would be the same.
Other than that I have no experience with the Range Rover.
If you don't plan on lugging lots of gear or towing then the RRS would be a good choice, essentially the same vehicle chassis wise just shorter and newer.
Is the sport the 4.4 v8 or the 5.0 v8? The 5.0 are notorious for timing chains and coolant crossover pipe issues, so keep that in mind. Also just my personal opinion but I'd only get the LR3 with the v8, the 4.0 v6 I just feel is way underpowered for a heavy truck like that. Plus the V8 is from what I've heard, it's a more reliable powertrain.
The 5.0 v8 can be very problematic as well between the timing issues and coolant crossover tubes. I would help shopping for a v8 LR3 or an earlier v8 Sport. Love the 4.4 or 4.2 supercharged sport they are fantastic to drive
Help to buy LR3 or RR Sport
