90 or 110?
The Ultimate Conundrum for Land Rover Enthusiasts
History:
The Land Rover Defender is one of the most iconic vehicles ever produced, and the 90 and 110 models are the most recognisable. They were first introduced in 1983 and were designed to replace the Land Rover Series III. The Defender was in production for more than 30 years, and it became an instant classic due to its durability, off-road capability, and rugged design.
Design:
The Defender 90 and 110 models are known for their boxy, utilitarian design. They have a simple, minimalist interior with basic features such as a radio and air conditioning. The body is made of aluminium and steel, and the chassis is constructed from a combination of steel and galvanised metal.
Off-road capabilities:
One of the main reasons the Defender 90 and 110 models are so popular is their off-road capability. They have a high ground clearance, locking differentials, and permanent four-wheel drive, which makes them ideal for tackling challenging terrain. They are also known for their ability to traverse deep water and climb steep inclines.
Variants:
Over the years, the Defender 90 and 110 models have been produced in a variety of different configurations. These include hardtops, soft-tops, station wagons, and pick-ups. Some models have also been equipped with specialised features such as winches, snorkels, and roll cages, and rooftop tents, which you can hire at WildTrax.
Legacy:
Although production of the Defender 90 and 110 models ended in 2016, their legacy lives on. These vehicles are highly sought after by enthusiasts and collectors, and their popularity shows no signs of waning. Many people appreciate the Defender's simplicity, durability, and timeless design.
Customisation:
Another reason why the Defender 90 and 110 models are so popular is their potential for customisation. There are a wide variety of aftermarket parts and accessories available that can be used to modify these vehicles to suit different needs and preferences. Some people have even gone so far as to completely rebuild and modify Defenders to create unique, one-of-a-kind vehicles.
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What are the main differences:
Size:
The main difference between the Defender 90 and 110 is their size. The Defender 90 is a shorter wheelbase vehicle with a total length of 3,990mm, while the Defender 110 has a longer wheelbase and is 4,735mm in length. This means that the Defender 110 has more space for passengers and cargo, but is less nimble in off-road situations.
Capacity:
The Defender 90 has a maximum seating capacity of 4 people, while the Defender 110 can seat up to 7 people. The larger size of the Defender 110 allows for more seats and a larger interior cabin.
Payload:
The Defender 110 has a higher payload capacity than the Defender 90. The 110 can carry up to 1,280kg of cargo, while the Defender 90 has a maximum payload capacity of 780kg.
Off-Road Capabilities:
Both the Defender 90 and 110 are highly capable off-road vehicles, but the shorter wheelbase of the Defender 90 makes it more agile and better suited for tight off-road trails. The longer wheelbase of the Defender 110 makes it more stable and comfortable on long journeys.
Fuel Efficiency:
The Defender 90 is generally more fuel-efficient than the Defender 110, due to its smaller size and lighter weight. However, the difference in fuel consumption is not significant.
Price:
The Defender 110 is typically more expensive than the Defender 90, due to its larger size and increased capacity. The price difference can vary depending on the model year and features.
Looks:
The Defender 90 has a noticeably shorter look. With it's shorter wheelbase, some people prefer the compactness of the 90 which shows off its nimble ability. In comparison, the 110 has a visually longer wheelbase, and with it, a look which certainly makes it look more daunting and robust in its wild habitat.
Passenger Space:
The Defender 110 has more passenger space than the Defender 90, thanks to its four doors and longer wheelbase. The 110 can comfortably seat up to seven people, while the Defender 90 can only seat up to six.
Cargo Space:
The Defender 110 also has more cargo space than the Defender 90, with a larger trunk area and more room behind the second row of seats. This makes it a better choice if you need to carry a lot of luggage, camping gear, or other items on your family or friend trips.
Comfort:
Both the Defender 90 and 110 offer a comfortable ride, but the longer wheelbase and larger size of the Defender 110 can help reduce passenger fatigue on longer trips. The 110 also offers more amenities, such as additional climate control zones and heated seats, which can make the trip more comfortable for passengers.
Safety:
Both the Defender 90 and 110 come with a range of safety features, including driver assistance technologies and airbags. However, the longer wheelbase of the Defender 110 can help provide additional stability and reduce the risk of rollovers, making it a safer choice for family and friend trips.
Accessibility:
While the Defender 110 can comfortably seat more people and carry more cargo, its larger size can make it harder to manoeuvre in tight spaces or narrow roads. The Defender 90, on the other hand, is more agile and easier to handle, which can be an advantage if you plan to explore off-road trails or drive in areas with challenging terrain.
In Conclusion
The main differences between the old Land Rover Defender 90 and 110 are their size, capacity, payload, off-road capabilities, fuel efficiency, and price. These differences make each vehicle better suited for different purposes and preferences. If you're planning family and friend trips, the Defender 110 may be the better choice due to its larger size, greater passenger and cargo space, and additional amenities. However, if you prioritise agility and manoeuvrability, the Defender 90 may be the better option for exploring off-road trails or driving in challenging terrain. Ultimately, the best choice will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Despite their differences, both are true icons and classics in the 4x4 space, and are loved by Land Rover enthusiasts around the world.
