Fully restored my used 1998 Mahindra CL500 4x4 MDI: Ownership report

The timeless front Fascia. There is nothing further to add about the looks of this generation of Jeeps. I prefer this over the MM540, owing to the fact that this is literally a licensed Willys.

BHPian TorqueMonster recently shared this with other enthusiasts.

Now that Phantom has been fully readied, I think I can finally give a true ownership review, at least my initial thoughts after adding almost a 1000 kms to this Vehicle.

The timeless front Fascia. There is nothing further to add about the looks of this generation of Jeeps. I prefer this over the MM540, owing to the fact that this is literally a licensed Willys. The fog lamps, while mounted, have not been operation, but I do intend on using them for future events, especially for Off - Roading. The Headlamps have been upgraded to Osram LED lights. The pros of such a change are that now the visibility on road has been excellent. Only downside is that with I would have to replace the reflectors, as the reflectors are suitable only for Halogen, and I would not even want to blind anyone who is oncoming.

The headlight throw can be best described as an average Creta Driver's worst nightmare, owing to the stereotype associated with their high beam use. The throw is far, and in the desolate highways passing through Rural TN, the new headlights are a godsend, allowing me to spot motorcycles and cycles passing across the Highway at night.

The next is the sides of the Vehicle, more particularly, the Roof. And the interior also. In the previous photos, you would have seen on how there was no rear seat. Now, an entire seating set up has been created, custom rear seat which can seat 2, along with cusions on the side, for the sake of seating 2 more thin people, purely for sake of emergency.

The Roof, is only good for protecting 2 people from shade. As much as I expected it to shelter from water, one light rain ensured that I was more drenched than those sitting behind me, owing to all the water accumulating on the roof and trickling down. While it does look good, the fact that it could not withstand a light rain means that there will be an eventual overhaul of the roof.

Rear Part of the Vehicle has had significant modifications. First and formost, the rear tyre has been mounted, with sufficient work done, to reinforce the rear door, to handle the additional weight of the tyre.

Now that all work has been totally finished on this vehicle, I can actually discuss about real life usage. Firstly, the driving dynamics have changed massively. Gear Shifts are precise and more shorter. The Jepe confortably sits at 60 on the Highway. The 4wd Lever is smooth, and is swiftly engaging.

The next update will be during an upcoming OTR event which I have planned to attend, the first OTR I am doing. I would be updating not only my personal experience off - roading for the first time, but also that of the Vehicle.

Check out BHPian comments for more insights and information.