Read This First Posted by Matt Munson on September 30, 1998 at 14:35:56: In Reply to: Should I buy a Disco posted by grover on September 16, 1998 at 08:58:30: Aaron: Sometimes it is hard to tell who actually owns a Land Rover in these message boards. But as a true owner, I can decipher through the BS and figure out who knows what they are talking about. Judging from your reference to the Class action suit in your message I assume you are from the U.S. That suit originated in my State through a well reputable law firm. Heed their warnings. If you are buying used, inspect all of the doors and under the hood. Look for signs of cover ups (flawed paint). Don't be afraid to ask them to put the car up on a jack so you can look under the vehicle. Next, Land Rovers in the U.S. have problems (then again, all vehicles do). I highly advise you to buy a Discovery still under warranty. This way, you can get all of the problems dealt with without cost to you (yes it is expensive, yes competent mechanics are hard to find in the U.S.) Be prepared for breakdowns. They will happen. Fluid leaks are very common. Personally, I keep a jug of antifreeze/coolant and a quart of oil in the back of my Disco. Parts are not too expensive if you order through some of the suppliers on the internet. (Search Yahoo for "Land Rover Parts" go to the one in Utah) Electrical problems are common on the 95 models, i.e. buy a 96. I was in a wreck in my first Disco. I would rate the accident on a 1 to 10 scale as a 7 as far as seriousness. Damage was moderate. At least the Disco rides high. Bottom Line: If I ever have to be in a wreck again, I hope I am in a Volvo. Gas mileage: I noticed someone said they got 16-18 miles to the gallon in "their" 95 Discovery ( I think the guy owns a Jeep and fancies himself in a real 4X4). I call BS (possible I suppose in the 1997 4.0 litre). I am lucky to get 13 or 14 on the highway, average 10-12 in the city plus I keep my vehicle serviced regularly. So, should you buy a Discovery? Well that is up to you. Jerry Garcia once said "not everyone likes liquorice. But those who do, REALLY like it. The Same goes for the Grateful Dead." My words, "the same goes for Land Rovers." If you buy one it is because you want one and are ready for the responsibility. You WILL have problems. Be prepared and it won't set you back too far. Join one of the road clubs like AAA or Allstate. If you live far from a dealer like I do, take that into consideration. Although they will come pick up your Rover, it is less than convienient. One thing worth adding, after I seemingly have degraded Land Rovers is they sure as hell are fun to drive. There is no place you can't go (well almost no place). You get to laugh at Jeep owners when they drool while you drive down the street. You will be the envy of your neighborhood. Finally, owning a Land Rover is not a privelage, it is a responsibility. If you take care of it, you will enjoy it until it falls apart (usually around 80k miles). But, I wouldn't trade mine for the world... Feel free to e-mail me if you have any questions.
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