While new models of Land Rover and Range Rover appear on a regular basis and usually impress the motoring media with their aesthetics and powerful engines, there is still much to like about some of the older models.

Indeed, if you are an enthusiast for vintage Land Rovers, you may appreciate many of the features that were cutting-edge back in the day, as well as the rich heritage of the brand. Even so, there may be a lot you would like to improve by going through a bit of a rebuild, for which finding the right engines will be a central issue.

A review in the Daily Express highlights the joys and the not-so-joyful aspects of driving an older Land Rover. It featured a 1960 Land Rover Series 2A that was described as “basic but brilliant for three reasons”. These were its ‘minimalist yet distinctive appearance’, the ‘responsive and engaging driving experience’ and it being ‘simple to work on and maintain’.

The last of these may be music to the ears of Land Rover fans, but the review listed three downsides: a ‘very simplistic interior with large panel gaps’, a ‘harsh ride quality from the leaf springs’ and ‘poor fuel economy compared to more recent models’.

If you have an older Land Rover, these may be common issues, but ones that you can address, especially through installing a better engine to improve the fuel economy.

Similarly, panel gaps can be filled and better springs introduced to improve other aspects of performance and leave you behind the wheel of something that looks vintage but has elements of modern performance.

Restoring classic Land Rovers is something many enthusiasts love to do. But your own rebuild job can go further and add some upgraded new elements. It may not be as ‘authentic’ as the original, but it will offer you a wonderful experience behind the wheel.