Defender 50. What are they like to live with?

[BLUETHUNDER]

I have been cosidering for a while about buying a Defender 50. I would like to know how comfortable they are and whats wind noise like on motor way journeys,also is the aircon up to scratch.Im not new to Landrovers having owned a few over the years,but never a defender.At present im at both ends of the spectrum with a P38 for every day use and two 101,s for fun. Any advice would be appreciated.Cheers. Mark.

[Denis O]

Mark,
Get yourself over to
www.defender50th.co.uk/
for all you ever needed to know on the 50th, Nice friendly bunch & knowledgeble although obviously a little biased.
Personally I love 'em and never has a Land Rover suffered less depreciation that any other model.

[Church]

They are superb vehicles, had one for a while, drives like a Range Rover Classic and very spookey for a Defender being so quiet and not having to work it hard to make progress. Also the bulkhead removal gives loads of space. Can't recommend it enough. Air-con is ok but does take up a fair bit of room.

[BLUETHUNDER]

Thanks for the info,need some unbiased views as well,but please no Landrover bashing.I know interior trim is some times not always up to sratch but would like some views as to use as an every day vechile.I drove an ex police 90 onc,and one thing that was annoying was the lack of elbow room between my self and the door,any other little problems i should look for?

[Denis O]

At some point LR reduced the width of the centre seat to resolve the elbow close to the door problem. I suspect they went away from a seat and included a cubby box. I'm not sure of the timing but a relative has a 97 defender which was like this. As the 50th's are all 98/99 they should be fine.

My 90, although a fantastic vehicle, was not an every day driver. Too noisey. That's why I sold it and bought the A4 Avant. The 50th on the other hand has a lot more creature comforts, slush box, carpets etc so should be fine for every day.

Good luck with your search.