Tips on buying a defender, identifying diferences in models

[pete81]

I'm looking seriously at buying my first defender but have been looking for some tips on what to look for and tips with identiying different models. For example the more recent addition of traction control and many adverts saying they are 2001 models but have traction control. I was of the understanding that only 2002 models and later had it. Do you simply look for wiring to the calipers??? What is the real difference between the standard models and the extreme? Is it just cosmetic? If there is no sticker what tells me its an extreme?

If someone could point me to a list of tips or has any tips that would be great. Also if you have any tips on where to source second hand defenders other than the standard internet car sites that would be great.

Thanks, Pete.

[gruntfuttock]

If you wantl that sort of thing (TC ABS etc) Just look to see if it is an Extreme

[loanrangie]

All defenders since i think 2000 are extremes so will have traction control and abs, in 99' you could get a td5 defender without all the other electrics - windows, abs, etc. These would be my choice for a td5 fender.

[siegucci]

Pete

gruntfuttock is right, if you want ABS/TC you have to go for an x-treme.
From 2000 onwards, the only 110 wagon in Australia where x-treme. Unfortunately LR didn't leave much of a choice for customers. One model fits all sort of thing. An x-treme up to 2001 will have alloy wheels,
bullbar, ABS/TC and metallic paint with a white roof. 2002 to 2004 will have different shaped alloy wheels, bullbar, ABS/TC, metallic paint with colourcoded roof, electric front windows, central door locking, new shaped dash (quite nice actually) and a rear step. The 2005 model is no x-treme anymore. They still have the whole lot but without bullbar, rear step and the colourcoded roof.
Don't expect too much from the TC. Don't get me wrong, it is a great system but it only works within it's phisical range. It won't get you out of a mudhole or a nice bog in sand. But it will work absolutely perfect on rock crawling and that sort of stuff. The reason for this is the approx.300 Nm of torque under load versus rather small brake pads which are triyng to slow down the spinning wheel in Sand or mud.
The ABS/TC system proofed itself to be very reliable, it never caused a big deal of problems, same goes for the el.windows and the CDL. The Td5 engine has been absolutely great, the rest of the drivetrain is O.K.
If you're looking of buing one with high milage, check the gearbox for hard gearchanges or excessive noise. Check the rear axle shafts for spline wear and the chassis for obvious signs of abuse.
Second hand ones can be hard to find or they are way over priced.
If you need any more infos on Defenders, send me a PM