While not quite as synonymous with offroading as the Land Rover Defender, the Range Rover Classic holds its own as one of the top multipurpose utility vehicles in the Land Rover family. So, while there’s no debate about the RRC’s place in the iconic Land Rover lineup, there is a debate about whether the LWB or the SWB is the superior Range Rover Classic. Here’s a look at the Range Rover Classic LWB vs. SWB matchup.

A Look at the Range Rover Classic

The Land Rover Company first introduced the Range Rover Classic model in 1969. During the first decade of its production, the RRC was only available as a two-door SUV. It wasn’t until 1981 that Land Rover introduced the first four-door RRC to its lineup. Along with the initial RRCs all being outfitted with only two-doors, the early model years only featured a short wheelbase of 100 inches.

It wasn’t until 1992 that Land Rover introduced the more luxurious and spacious 108-inch wheelbase option. That’s not to say that the Range Rover Classic SWB option doesn’t have a lot to offer consumers. The winner of the Range Rover Classic LWB vs. SWB matchup all comes down to preference.

Range Rover Classic LWB vs. SWB: What Does the RRC SWB Have to Offer?

Despite not being as spacious as the LWB, the SWB does offer Range Rover Classic drivers some other advantages.

A top benefit of the RRC with the short wheelbase includes increased maneuverability that makes it a better option for offroading adventures. Also, Land Rover produced the short-wheelbase RRC for a long time, which makes it easier to source for restoration projects.

Project Oliver Plaid

Project Oliver Plaid is a gorgeous example of a custom-built RRC SWB from ECD. This 1990 SWB RRC is a head turner finished in Bentley Alpine Green Metallic with black and silver accents all around. This Range Rover Classic sits on 16-inch Wolf steel wheels with BFG all-terrain tires. The exterior is tied together with a black Voyager Roof Rack, a vintage front bumper, and an ECD custom steering guard.

Under the hood of Project Oliver Plaid lies a GM LS3 6.2L engine with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Stepping into the interior of this Range Rover Classic, each seat sports Bentley Napper Saddle Leather paired with plaid pattern inserts. A unique touch from the client, Project Oliver Plaid features an olive green carpet from the front of the SUV to the load area.

Range Rover Classic LWB vs. SWB: Here’s What the RRC LWB Brings to the Table

While certain benefits come with driving an RRC SWB, there are also pros associated with the long-wheelbase option. Some of the key benefits of the RRC with the long wheelbase include:

• More interior space that provides a comfortable ride for passengers, especially during long road trips.
• Greater hauling capacity.
• More distance between the axles on the RRC LWB, which allows the suspension system to better absorb bumps along the roadway, creating a smoother, more enjoyable ride.

Project Gibbles

A 1995 LWB RRC, Project Gibbles is a prime example of what a custom Range Rover Classic from ECD can become. Painted in full gloss Mariana Black, this RRC is a showstopper in its own right. On the exterior, Project Gibbles features 20-inch Kahn Mondial Retro Wheels, an OEM front grille, and eye-catching silver door handles.

This LWB Range Rover Classic is powered by a GM LT1 engine with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Project Gibbles’s interior features an OEM steering wheel wrapped in black leather, ECD digital gauges, a SONY Halo touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, a wireless charging station, and USB ports throughout. In addition, all the seats in Project Gibbles are finished in horizontal Garrett Sandpiper leather and are stitched together in black thread.

Build Your Custom Range Rover Classic Restomod With ECD Today

Once you’ve chosen a winner in the Range Rover Classic LWB vs. SWB matchup, it’s time to get your own custom RRC build project up and going. From modern drivetrains that feature the GM LT1 engine to an all-electric powertrain, the team at ECD can transform your vintage RRC into a one-of-a-kind restomod build.

If you need some inspiration for your RRC build, check out our 3D Build Simulator or our extensive portfolio to get a better sense of what options are available for your restoration project. When you’re ready to get started, be sure to contact us to talk shop and go over all the what’s involved in an ECD build.