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Allthough the defender may not quite be too everyones tastes, it has a huge following worldwide, and rightly so. It is a shining example of a car which does exactly what it is made to do, and quite simply outclasses any other vehicle, once taken off the beaten track. I use my defender as a work car, recreational off-roader and every day car, and could not imagine a more fun practical machine. it does have its faults, such as poor motorway cruising speed, but i can easily get it to truck along at 70, and have pushed it up past 95mph. around town, or country lanes, it performs fantastically, and is enjoyable to drive. (and the low gearing and powerful engine is enough to beat a few boy racers off at the lights, especially once it has been tweaked, and increasing performance is not to expensive of difficult, due to a good range of upgrades avaliable) Off-road is where the defender really performs, and even a standard car, when driven well, will go almost anywhere, and leave most alternative 4x4s stuck behind it. if you are wiiling to spend a few quid, and have a basic understanding of mechanics, the more than capable standard vehicle can be turned into an unstoppable off roading machine. and will give its owner a lot of fun. To conclude, this iconic car achives so many things, from being a fun family toy to a serious working vehicle. If you are looking for the best 4x4xfar, then the defender is the only option.
From the difference between the 2 stars awarded by What Car? and the average scores in these reviews you can see that this car has much more about it than meets the eye.
It might be fairly rudimentary, leaks slightly around the bottom of the doors and dents as soon as you look at it, but I absolutely LOVE my Landy. It's hugely practical, fantastic off-road, very comfy (If a bit noisy) on-road, unpretentious, full of character and my kids would choose it over our Audi and Volvo V70 every day given the choice.
I think you either "Get" Defenders or you don't. If not then steer clear. If you do, go and buy one...You'll never regret it!
I've not been disappointed. In fact, I would say I am delighted. I adore this car. I've got a 110 hard-top in County trim. It's a very basic car and that is part of its charm. There is absolutely nothing superflous in or on this car.
It is totally classless and doesn't reveal anything about its owner. People leave me alone, let me in at junctions, I can park it without concern and I simply don't get the hassle from other drivers that I've had with previous cars. I've adopted a 'whatever' 'approach to driving - it doesn't reward hard or fast driving, so I just amble along enjoying the view.
It really earns its keep. I load it with everything imaginable. Best of all, I simply don't have to worry about getting it dirty - we chuck everything and anything in the back and it is simple to clean out again. I filled it with trees and shrubs this week - every square inch of it. I absolutely covered the inside with mud. Ten minutes with a broom and hose had it as good as new!
There is a downside, though - long trips are hard work. I've driven 1000 miles this week and it shows. Once over 65mph, it is very noisy and harsh. Trying to listen to the radio whilst driving at 80mph is pointless - in fact, at that speed you won't be able to hear anything! I try to allow an extra 15 minutes to my trips and simply cruise at 65mph on the motorway.
I have the Black Hard Top edition ,this comes with all the factory fitted extras so it is more practical for me. A turbo chip gives it extra power & torgue. Frost & ice goes within seconds with the heated screens & heated seats for that extra treat. Driving a defender keeps me alert, hearing the tones of the engine, the slight roll when the handbrakes applied keeps the interest going. Pulling away & hitting 70mph is no effort, & what a view.
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