The Range Rover Rover V8 4.0L Petrol is a 3,947 cc, naturally aspirated V8 petrol engine produced between 1995 and 2002. It features a 90° V8 configuration, cast-iron block, aluminium heads, and sequential multi-point fuel injection with SOHC architecture. In standard form it delivered 130–136 kW (177–185 PS) and 320–330 Nm of torque, providing smooth, linear power delivery suited to luxury SUV applications.
Fitted to the P38A Range Rover and Discovery Series II, the Rover V8 4.0L was engineered for effortless torque, quiet operation, and durability in varied conditions. Emissions compliance was achieved through three-way catalytic converters and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), meeting Euro 2 standards across European markets.
One documented concern is head gasket failure due to thermal stress and coolant system design limitations, highlighted in Land Rover Service Bulletin TSB‑ENG‑99‑03. This issue stems from the dissimilar expansion rates between the aluminium heads and cast-iron block under repeated thermal cycling. Land Rover issued revised multi-layer steel (MLS) gaskets and updated coolant specifications to mitigate the problem.
All production years 1995–2002 meet Euro 2 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4567).
The Range Rover Rover V8 4.0L Petrol is a 3,947 cc 90° V8 naturally aspirated engine engineered for full‑size luxury SUVs (1995–2002). It combines sequential multi-point fuel injection with robust cast-iron/aluminium construction to deliver smooth, reliable performance. Designed to meet Euro 2 standards, it prioritizes drivability and serviceability over high output.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,947 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (ULP 95 RON min) | |
| Configuration | V8, SOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 94.0 mm × 71.0 mm | |
| Power output | 130–136 kW (177–185 PS) | |
| Torque | 320–330 Nm @ 2,600 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-point injection (Lucas GEMS) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.35:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | API SG/ACEA A2 (SAE 10W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 180 kg |
The SOHC V8 design provides smooth, linear power but requires strict adherence to 10W-40 petrol-rated oil (ACEA A2/API SG) to protect valve train and timing components. The engine’s susceptibility to head gasket failure demands use of Land Rover-approved G48-spec coolant and avoidance of overheating. Thermostat and water pump should be inspected regularly; early replacement is advised at 100,000 km per Land Rover TSB‑ENG‑99‑03. The Lucas GEMS ECU is sensitive to poor grounding—clean earth points are essential for stable operation.
Oil Specs: Requires ACEA A2/API SG (10W-40) specification (Land Rover SIB‑OIL‑1996). Not compatible with modern low-SAPS oils.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to all 1995–2002 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4567). Verified via NEDC testing.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Power output assumes 95 RON fuel (Land Rover PT‑1998).
Land Rover Technical Information System (TIS): Docs TIS‑V8‑1995, TIS‑FUEL‑1995, TSB‑ENG‑99‑03
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/4567)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code
The Range Rover Rover V8 4.0L Petrol was used across Land Rover's P38A and Discovery Series II platforms with longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts and accessory drive layout—and from 1999 the MY00 update introduced updated head gasket materials, creating minor service part interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the left-side cylinder head near the exhaust manifold (Land Rover TIS ENG‑ID‑1995). The engine bay VIN plate will list '4.0 V8' under engine type. Visual ID: black rocker covers with 'V8' badge on front grille. Differentiate from 4.6L V8 by displacement badge and intake manifold casting number. ECU part number must match production date—early units use Lucas GEMS 1.9; post-1999 use GEMS 2.0 with updated calibration per Land Rover TSB‑ENG‑99‑03.
The Rover V8 4.0L's primary reliability risk is head gasket failure due to thermal cycling stress between the aluminium heads and cast-iron block, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to frequent short trips or coolant neglect. Land Rover internal field reports from 2000 indicated ~18% of early-build P38A V8s required head gasket replacement before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA records show no significant emissions-related MOT failures due to robust catalytic converter design. Adherence to coolant specification and thermal management is critical to prevent secondary damage.
Analysis derived from Land Rover technical bulletins (1995–2002) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1996–2008). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RANGE-ROVER ROVER-V8-40L.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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