110 County Station Wagon 4dr 4 X 4

The best long-term classic you can buy

I was deliberately looking for a vehicle that will remain useful and useable for a very long time. Defenders have ben around since 1948 and the 1994-1998 production period gives the best engines and trim before the electronics became overwhelming. The 300TDi engine is an incredible engine of its age, giving enough punch to tow 3.5T at the legal limit or 32mpg (but not at the same time).

Ally corrosion in the body was an issue as the previous owner had let it run away. I had the panels stripped and repainted, but were refitted using the older assembly methods - mastic between the steel chassis and the ally panels stops the dissimilar metal corrosion from starting again.

Performance? If you're worried about that then you're not the right owner of a Defender. Reliability? So long as you don't skimp on the maintenance then it's not an issue (unlike the later electronic-dependant models). Character? By the lorry load! Fun? Oh yes! Yes, it drives like an agricultural vehicle because that's exactly what is was designed to be. Comfort and cosseting seekers should go elsewhere.

Insurance is less than the VFD (that's fully comp with business use for me), all parts are available and it hangs on to its value like glue. Mine is now 20 years old but looks a fraction of that. I find people stood looking at it in car parks. It'll still be going in another twenty years (legislation permitting). Try those tricks with a modern 4x4.

Report as offensive