The Range Rover Classic is just one of the vehicles that simply possesses an innate “wow” factor. It’s a timeless classic that has forever shaped the luxury SUV landscape. From power and performance to style and aesthetics, the Range Rover Classic has remained one of the most coveted luxury SUVs for more than three decades. Here’s a look at the history of the RRC and how the Range Rover Classic SWB fits into the story.

A Brief History of the Range Rover Classic

The Range Rover Classic comes from the legendary Land Rover brand. The Land Rover Company was founded in Solihull, England in 1878. At the time, the brand was simply known as the Rover Company. By the time the company introduced the Range Rover Classic into the Land Rover Rover lineup, the company had already changed hands and rebranded half a dozen times.

It was in the aftermath of the war efforts that Land Rover first began producing utility-type vehicles. In 1948, the company began producing the original utility vehicles that are now a part of the beloved Land Rover lineup. After seeing such success with these initial utility-type vehicles, the company continued to expand its SUV lineup. In 1969, Land Rover introduced the concept for the first Range Rover Classic, with the first model year coming in 1970.

Range Rover Classic: SWB vs. LWB

When Land Rover first introduced the Range Rover Classic, all models featured a 100-inch wheelbase. It wasn’t until 1992 that Land Rover introduced a 108-inch wheelbase option, which provided a more spacious cab. Thus, the introduction of the longer wheelbase created two separate categories of Range Rover Classics: the short wheelbase (SWB) and the long wheelbase (LWB).

While the Range Rover Classic LWB is considered to be more luxurious to some, given the fact that it provides more interior space, the Range Rover Classic SWB offers its own set of benefits. The shorter wheelbase on the Range Rover Classic SWB allows the SUV to have greater maneuverability compared to the LWB. In addition, the increased maneuverability that the SWB provides makes it the better option for offroading or overlanding adventures.

Another element to consider is that the Range Rover Classic SWB was in production from 1970 to 1996. In contrast, the LWB option was only produced from 1992 to 1996. Of course, this means that for restoration purposes, sourcing a Range Rover Classic SWB will be a fair bit easier as there were a lot more produced throughout the years.

Customizing a Range Rover Classic SWB

Whether you decide the Range Rover Classic SWB or LWB is right for you, the team at ECD is ready to help you source, restore, and customize your RRC into a one-of-kind vintage SUV either way. From interior to exterior, every ECD client holds the reigns when it comes to the restoration process. Clients have the opportunity to customize their RRC with a variety of different engine options, seating configurations, interior and exterior stylings, and tech features.

Two popular engine options among ECD clients for their custom RRC include the Chevrolet LS3 engine and ECD’s second-generation electric motor.

• Chevrolet LS3 Engine: A 6-speed performance engine that produces 430 horsepower, 400 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm of torque, and can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 6 seconds.
• ECD Gen 2 Electric Motor: ECD’s new electric motor setup offers DC fast charging and features an 84 kWh setup with a 200-mile range.

When it comes to styling configurations and tech features for a custom RRC, the possibilities are nearly endless. Just take a look at Project Oliver Plaid. This 1990 Range Rover Classic SWB is finished in a gorgeous Bentley Alpine Green Metallic paint with black and silver accents all around. The interior of Project Oliver Plaid is just as unique, with each seat being wrapped in Bentley Naples Saddle Leather and sporting a plaid pattern fabric insert. In terms of tech, this RRC is customized with Infinity Kappa speakers and USB ports throughout.

Another head-turning custom RRC from ECD is Project Vero. This 1995 Range Rover Classic is actually a special TWR edition. Some elements that made this edition unique from the traditional RRCs included a larger front and rear bumper, side sills, and some specially designed alloy wheels. Project Vero is finished in a stunning Nardo Grey, which provides a unique pastel color to the exterior of this RRC. When it comes to interior styling and tech features, Project Vero is styled with a full black interior and comes equipped with a Sony infotainment system, a backup camera, a JL Audio sound system, and in-car WiFi.

No matter what configurations clients choose for their build project, it’s always a luxury design experience when working with the dedicated team at ECD. The starting price of a vintage Range Rover Classic from ECD is $249,995.

Let the Team at ECD Handle Your Custom Range Rover Classic Build Project

If you’re ready to add an RRC to your car collection, now is the perfect time to connect with the team at ECD. Our dedicated design and build teams are ready to bring your Range Rover Classic dreams into reality. Every ECD build project is constructed to our client’s exact specifications, inside and out. So, however you envision your vintage SUV coming to life, ECD can make it happen.

Still unsure how you want to tackle your custom RRC build? Well, if you’re in need of a little bit more inspiration, you can find some by checking out our 3D build simulator, our custom builds portfolio, or our YouTube channel. Once you’re ready to get started on your RRC build project, contact us today to learn more about the entire design and build process!