Lot details

Year: 2005
Make: Range Rover
Model: TDV8 4.4 litre Autobiography
Registration: RO05 ORO
Chassis No: SALLMAMA35A196904
Odometer: 77,000

The Range Rover L322 (2002-2012) represented a major step forward from the P38A (1994-2001), both in engineering and philosophy. Where the previous P38 used an evolution of the original 1970 Range Rover's ladder-frame chassis, (updated with coil or air suspension), the L322 moved to a monocoque (integrated body-frame) structure. Launched in 1993, the Autobiography program began as a bespoke commissioning service at Land Rover's Special Vehicle Operations. At the time, the luxury SUV market was still young, and Range Rover was pioneering the idea that a 4x4 could be as much a status symbol as a utility vehicle. Offering a personalised luxury experience more commonly associated with high-end coachbuilt cars. Customers could select from unique paint colours, premium upholstery and trim finishers that were not available on standard production models. Special wood veneers, custom embroidery, and bespoke details like monogrammed headrests or tailored carpeting became part of the package.

This particular example presents in what is believed to be the only one of its kind as a right hand drive L322 in Wimbledon Green. Introduced as a limited-edition shade on the 30th Anniversary P38, Wimbledon Green was never used as a standard colour for the L322. One other vehicle is known to exist in the USA, a late 2012 car also special ordered in the same hue, selling recently for over $70,000. Unlike the 2009-2012 cars when Autobiography was introduced as a popular trim level, the earlier 2002-2005 Autobiography was a real rarity and commanded respect within the line-up, such was the significant price hike especially when coupled with custom paints (which cost anywhere from £6000-£10,000). The custom paint process started by selecting a black car from the production line and taking it to the Special Vehicles paint shop. Hence the biggest telltale for being able to spot a real Autobiography which is its matte black engine bay and the engraved Autobiography plaque on the slam panel.

This car has been tastefully specified with Sage over Ivory two tone leather extended to the upper and lower dash, centre console and door cards, complemented perfectly by the fiercely rare Vavona wood trim throughout (again, an Autobiography only option). Autobiography badged kick plates complete the subtle interior, along with the in-vogue clear non-privacy glass. Boasting just 77,000 miles from new with a comprehensive history, we are informed the car has undergone a recent major service and new MoT test certificate. During our client's tenure the common rear arch corrosion has been remedied correctly using new rear welded quarter panels, the gearbox has been serviced, differential and transfer case oils also changed. With 19" freshly powder coated wheels and four brand new tyres, this represents a very smart collectable example of the ever-popular L322 offered at a sensible estimate. Consigned by Mathew Priddy