Ever wondered what classic car to consider? Paul Murrell tests the 1983-2016 Land Rover 90, 110 and Defender with pricing, specs, ride and handling, safety, verdict and everything the over-50 classic car buyer needs to know.
Summary: There are few tougher vehicles than the Land Rover, and later models are a lot more comfortable than the early models (but all things are relative!).
1983-2016 Land Rover 90, 110 and Defender
Price range: $25,000-$85,000
Safety: improved over the life of the model
Engine: 2.2-litre inline turbocharged four-cylinder (Defender 90 Td4 SE)
Power: 90kW
Torque: 360Nm
Transmission: five-speed manual with central differential lock, four-wheel drive
Steering: worm and roller, power assistance optional
Body: 3833-4785mm (long); 1790mm (wide); 1993-2182mm (high)
Build country: Britain
Interior features: air conditioning, power windows, audio connectivity, leather trim, sat nav (all depending on model chosen)
Exterior features: dependent on model and options fitted
Kerb weight: 1771-2055kg
Wheels: steel or alloy, 18-22 inch
Tyres: 255/70R18-275/45R22
Brakes: discs (front), drums (rear). Later discs front and rear
Fuel tank: 60 litres
Consumption: 10.2L/100km
[review]
The Defender has been around for what seems like forever, and has built a reputation as the ultimate off-roader. Strong and simple, the ladder chassis, mechanical all-wheel drive system and simple panels all make for a useful classic vehicle.
Since being launched in 1984, it’s undergone regular upgrades, including improvements to both drivetrain and equipment, so you’ll need to know what you’re looking for when you start shopping around. And you’ll have to be prepared to put up with a lot of things you wouldn’t even consider in a more modern design, such as a very upright and cramped driving position and old-fashioned dashboard.
On the road, it feels lethargic and cumbersome. The steering has been designed to be low-geared for better off-road manoeuvrability, at the expense of on-road finesse.
Audible clunks from the gearbox and a clattery, lumpy diesel are not necessarily cause for concern.
Like all SUVs, the driving position is lofty, providing good all-round vision, despite the small and upright windows. And it’s easy to see the extremities, making it easier to manage.
There are two versions: a short wheelbase three door and a longer wheelbase five door. The shorter car is noticeably choppy and the ride quality leaves a lot to be desired. The longer wheelbase version is also far from state-of-the-art, but it does offer greater flexibility. Distinguishing features of the post-1983 models are a flat windscreen, full length bonnet, revised grille and wheelarch extensions.
What to look out for
Tough it might be, but many people have used and abused the Land Rover Defender over many years.
Rust, especially in the chassis and bulkhead, is a good reason to walk away. Extreme off-roading can distort the chassis and damage running gear.
Engines can last almost forever, if they are looked after. Unfortunately, many aren’t. Rough running, oil and coolant leaks, excessive smoke, overheating are all things to look out for. On the V8s, head gaskets and worn camshafts need checking. The Tdi should have the cambelt replaced regularly (every 100,000km). Ford-derived engines suffer from failing electronics and failure of the diesel pump.
Body panels can be dented, but they were never great, even brand new. Expect ripples and distortion.
Check that low ratio engages and diff locks work (driving in a tight circle will cause the tyres to slip if the lock is working. Check for oil leaks from the axles, gearbox and transfer box. Regular off-road use is overcome, to some extent, by regular changes of oil in the transmission and axles.