1997 Land Rover Discovery I :: Classifieds

Land Rover Discovery I

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly classic 4WD for overlanding, then the Discovery I is a great option. It shares many of the same desirable attributes as the Defender without the exorbitant price tag. It even has some advantages over the latter, which include a more refined driving experience. This 1997 Discovery I showcases a wealth of premium upgrades and a 300Tdi conversion. The 300Tdi is not going to win any races but it’s both dependable, easy to work on, and surprisingly economical, which makes it a great fit for overland travel. Subsequently, there’s no shortage of inspiring Discovery I builds online including offerings from Overland N’ Explore, Open Road 4Two, and The Untravelled Path. It’s also a favorite with the Expedition Portal team with our very own Publisher and Chairman Scott Brady showcasing his personal 1995 Discovery I on our YouTube channel.

Land Rover 300Tdi

From the Seller:

This is a great rig and darn near unstoppable off-road. It has been used as a ‘third’ vehicle and has mostly been a fun toy since being built. The Disco has less than 160,000 miles overall and much less on everything else. This is not a brand-new build and it has been used a fair amount, but always maintained properly. Please let me know if you have any questions.”

Discovery interior

1997 Land Rover Discovery I

The Discovery is fitted with a 300Tdi that in stock form delivers 111 horsepower and 285 pound-feet of torque (today’s example has been uprated). A dependable and economical motor is matched with legendary capability thanks to 4WD, high and low range, skid plates, a snorkel, Tru-Trac limited-slip front differential, Detroit rear locker, and center locking differential. Inside, the Land Rover is well-equipped with driver comforts that include:

  • Aftermarket Kenwood stereo
  • Center console with cupholders
  • Power steering, windows, locks, and mirrors
  • Cruise control
  • Air-conditioning

Land Rover Discovery I armor

Distinguishing Features

  • Old Man Emu HD 3-inch lift with TerraFirma shocks and stabilizer
  • Falken Wildpeak A/T tires
  • Hannibal roof rack and rear awning
  • Mantec snorkel
  • Safari Guard rear bumper and Hard Labor Creek front bumper with Warn winch
  • Rockware sliders with nerf bars
  • Jackall-Berry side awning

Land Rover roof rack

This 1997 Land Rover Discovery is listed for $21,500 and is currently located in Stevenson, Washington. Check the full vehicle specifications via the original Expedition Portal forum post here.

Land Rover awning

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No money in the bank, but gas in the tank. Our resident Bikepacking Editor Jack Mac is an exploration photographer and writer living full-time in his 1986 Vanagon Syncro but spends most days at the garage pondering why he didn’t buy a Land Cruiser Troopy. If he’s not watching the Lord of the Rings Trilogy, he can be found mountaineering for Berghaus, sea kayaking for Prijon, or bikepacking for Surly Bikes. Jack most recently spent two years on various assignments in the Arctic Circle but is now back in the UK preparing for his upcoming expeditions—looking at Land Cruisers. Find him on his website, Instagram, or on Facebook under Bicycle Touring Apocalypse.