Landrover petrol engines are developments of a former Buick engine. All are 90 degree V8 pushrod designs consisting of alloy blocks with iron cylinder liners. Over the years, they have been factory-fitted with various enhancements to improve performance.

• Early models had twin Stomberg carburettors and manual chokes that remain the choice for many off-road applications where electronic tuning facilities are not readily available. Graeme Cooper Automotive is one of the few remaining service providers able to tune these early engines to perfection
• In 1986, the first electronic fuel injection appeared on Range Rover - a requirement for unleaded fuel use. It provided more power, better economy and easier starting, also relatively easier elecronic tuning
• In 1989, the original 3.5 litre version was replaced with a 3.9 litre version providing better torque and greater power output.
• Performance may be compared by the 0-100 KPH times of 13.5 and 11.5 seconds for the 1987 and 1989 models respectively
• Top speed also increased, with the post 1989 models claiming 170 KHM (over the 100 MPH benchmark)
• In 1995, the "new" Range Rover SE and HSE P38 models had 4.0 and 4.6 litre engines respectively. Although based on the same original but much-modified Buick block , the 4.6 version was considerably more powerful, smoother and with greater torque than any previous Rover engine. Again, however, the degree of expertise in tuning, plus the optional addition of after-market engine management systems can transform a perfecly respectable engine into a beast of real power .
• The 2002 introduction of the 3rd generation Range Rover saw an even more significant change, based largely on the influence of BMW. Later, Ford acquired the brand and further engine changes occurred. Petrol engine data is covered in this section - please refer to the separate page covering the diesel models

Data quoted above is ex-factory performance. In reality, the level of tune and enhancements to the engine management systems are critical to achieving optimum performance - where Graeme Cooper Automotive offers particular expertise