I know I love the styling and rarity of the Defender 90, but having been more of a Jeep guy the past few years, I don't know a whole lot about them as far as reliability, availability of parts/service, etc.

Are there some good sites to get more information about them and what people have done with them or what they are capable of? what about building and modification of them?

also, like Jeeps, are there certain years I should try to avoid or be aware of pitfalls (like major issues or shortcomings to look for, etc)?


How do you guys feel about a defender vs a jeep wrangler? I loved my wrangler and like my Grand Cherokee... and I could buy 2 or 3 for the price of the Defender... so I'm having a hard time deciding.


I really appreciate any insight you can provide as I make a decision. Thank you!

:nuke:

try www.d-90.com FAQ and search similar threads here first.

:cow:

might as well buy one now because you made it your screen name:shaking:

might as well buy one now because you made it your screen name:shaking:


AHAHA :laughing:

parts = $$$

engine = so so

axles = salsbury = $$$

cool though!

might as well buy one now because you made it your screen name:shaking:
that's the goal :smokin:

AHAHA :laughing:

parts = $$$

engine = so so

axles = salsbury = $$$

cool though!
how is the V8 (and defender overall) for performance and towing --- possibly towing a jeep wrangler or cherokee -- or a small boat (fishing or runabout)?

What I think is great about the D90 is that it basicly an updated modern vehicle that has all the attributes of 1969 IH Scout 800 A.... but cost A LOT MORE. Isn't that cooooollll.:rolleyes:

What I think is great about the D90 is that it basicly an updated modern vehicle that has all the attributes of 1969 IH Scout 800 A.... but cost A LOT MORE. Isn't that cooooollll.:rolleyes:

wow - just like a new jeep, too. care to open your mouth for the other foot, dumbass? :flipoff2: :flipoff2:

moving on ...

towing - small stuff is fine, but the wheelbase makes things twitchy. ski-doos, smaller single axle trailers, and boats < 20ft are all fine. with a wheelbase that short, towing with tires bigger than 33's is going to suck. the 3.9 doesn't have the balls to tow another car ... fuggetaboutit, unless maybe it's an Austin Healy Sprite or something small.

wrangler vs. D90 - D90 has a stronger frame, and is much more of a "truck" than a jeep. much larger cargo area as well in the D90. as far as off-road performance, a TJ with 33's, lockers and a tera-flex kit is more vehicle than half of the owners know what to do with. a very mildly built D90 can go the same places, and the same could be said for their ownership as well. i'd give a nod for reliability to a TJ, uniqueness factor definitely falls to the defender.

disco I's, range rover classics, and defenders all have basically the same chassis. because of this, any of these rigs can be made into capable performers with the same parts so really it's more of a preference on style, your pocketbook, and what kind of wheeling interests you. For instance, if you want to tow, a repowered rangie or discovery would be a much better option. If you want to take family along for more camping / wheeling - a disco or rangie is a better option. If you're single and want more of a lighter weight rig that's more nimble in the trees and can be fitted out easier with larger tires 'n such, the '90 can be a good route but carries a much higher premium $$$. They all have very similar steering setups, axles are near identical, as is the suspension - wishbone in the rear, radius arm up front.

A 110 is a great rig as well, but they're rare. these wheel fairly decently, most come with a D60 equivelent in the rear stock, and have LOADS of room inside. big $$ though if you don't know where to look or want one "now", and you'll want to repower it to something domestic or diesel to realize the rig's full potential.

good luck. as a heads up, if you do not plan on heavy wheeling and mods to suit with your new rig, you won't find a lot of love in the rover forum, or this site in general.

cheers