P38 2.5 Dse auto, ideal first car?

[Michaelbailey]

Ive found myself in a slightly odd situation where buying my girlfriend a range rover is the best option. The reason behind this is as i am looking to buy a race car which will need to be trailered to and from track days. This means i need a good tow vehicle as my s4 b5 isnt something i want to be towing with. My girlfriend is 21 and insurance is a big factor in deciding her first car and i thought i would do a quote on a range rover which is what i was thinking of buying and found it to be one of the cheapest vehicles to insure for her. This also solves the problem of having the range rover parked up for a lot of the year. I understand some pretty solid man maths are at play here! I hear theyre pretty terrible reliability wise but is there anything i can arm myself with diagnostic wise or what to look for? Also reaching out to see if im missing something obvious in my rose tinted glasses here.

[Michaelbailey]

Reason behind the diesel comment is fuel economy (thought lpg could be a solution) and the other one is insurance again. Doubles the price for the 4.0 v8 (didnt bother trying the 4.6)

I was thinking a helping hand with a remap for the diesel to breathe a bit of fresh air into it, though speeding about isnt my concern in the slightest, hopefully that however would help with towing. And one of the main reasons behind the p38 was the air suspension for comfort and towing abilities. Might have to speak to my dyno man to see what he thinks he can do!

[Michaelbailey]

If money were no object the 4.6 would be the obvious choice. However im not particularly wealthy, itll be driven everday and insurance is killer. Perhaps in a few years time I may opt for the petrol but I think for now the diesel with maybe a remap will have to do. I feel the talk of unreliability is maybe not the biggest issue as I am fairly handy and the parts aren't too expensive and I believe they aren't the hardest to work on.

I also feel as a tall 2 tonne lump itll be safer than her getting around in a little French box and also a lot nicer which she completely agrees with! I myself am also 21 and to use as a tow car for the race car for me seems perfect. (makes me look good!) As I say I don't know why but its literally half the price of any jeep, shogun, pickup, large estate or anything on insurance. Quite excited about the whole idea! ive noticed they range rather largely in price. 2k seems to buy an alright one but I suppose the proofs in the pudding.

[Michaelbailey]

Can i ask did you use a conversion (kit) or did you do a home brew for the electric fan? Im not all that great with electrics but i can get by but rewiring isnt something id been too keen on but i know from seeing a few videos the difference cant be underestimated. Different engine i know but on a 350hp v8 Chevy engine it was worth 30hp! There is a video on youtube which shows it. Lots of benefits from having electric, noise, economy, performance, reliability, ability to change when it cuts in and so on.