In 4X4 terms, this Chieftain is as powerful and as fast as you will ever need. GM's 6.2 Supercharged V8 underwrites all of its vital statistics, sub 4.5 sec 0-60, 556bhp/551 Ib-ft, plus its wonderfully addictive sonorous engine and exhaust note.

Thankfully the DNA is pure & original Charles 'Spens' King 1970 design, which for me at least, remains the most attractive of all the subsequent models.

Underneath it's actually a shorten Discovery 4 chassis with cleverly bespoke engineered body and panel fixing mounts. Chunky new arches, 20' alloys, reformed GRP bumpers and side skirts, all help embolden the original 1970 design with some serious attitude.

Crucially, the standard air-suspension has been removed and replaced with fully adjustable 'Ohlins', which completely transforms its roadholding capabilities, enabling one to really push on. Reassuring also to find front & rear Disco differentials plus vast AP Racing brakes and ABS in situ, all of which are most assuredly up to their individual tasks.

While it respects the Range Rover’s utilitarian roots, the cabin is reworked with premium materials and tech. You'll find there's Apple car play, reversing camera, a rather nice red 'starter' button, billeted alloy switch gear, all of which is beautifully enshrouded in acres of soft leather and Wilton carpet.

As Voltaire famously said, 'perfection is attained by slow degrees; it requires the hand of time', thus it's no surprise, that each Chieftain takes upwards of 12 months to build.

If you have a penchant for rumbling V8 like Sir Charles Dunston, then don't join the throng of normality, come and see this wonderful and inspiring piece of British automotive engineering, you won't be disappointed

Therefore it's 3 cheers and much applause for Sir Charles Dunston for his continued enthusiasm to engage and build these rumbling V8's against the incoming tide of change.

It would be a pleasure to answer any questions you might have. However, to really appreciate this special Range Rover, it needs to be seen “in the flesh”, so do please call me directly on +44(0)1737 844999 to arrange a viewing.

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