What should one do?

[PBob]

There are several 110 crew cab HCPU models on the market, new and demos. The question is, should one buy one with no ABS or Traction control for around $6k to $8k less (2009 models), and have some money for extras, or buy new (2010) which has those two bits fitted? I suppose the issue is resale value? I don't go rock climbing, just outback roads with a camper trailer and some paddock inspection work.
I was told that there was a stuff up and those first batch came to OZ without ABS and TC.

[dullbird]

I wouldn't buy without personally...

[JDNSW]

It is really up to you, but most people seem to have got by quite OK without ABS/TC on their Defenders for the last twenty-five years or so, and probably the majority of them would welcome the opportunity to save some money and at the same time reduce complexity. The resale value will, as you say be less, but you can bet the difference will also be less, so financialluy you will still be ahead.

John

[Chucaro]

without and the $8000 for some mods or diesel for a nice trip ;)

[PBob]

Yes, thanks gents for the quick response. It is an interesting decision - the ABS is always good to have, although it isn't on 130's and they are probably a bit heavier as well. I think TC is useful for genuine off roading and whilst this isn't too much of an issue for me, for re-selling, it might be a bit like having a TV without a remote, or a game of tennis with a wrong ball etc. In other words TC should be on this type of vehicle if it is normally available.
Incidently, the amount of mistakes put on by dealers (who should know better) on the carsales sites are interesting. There are 110s advertised as 130s, cars without ABS saying they have it, crew cabs that are single cabs, etc. etc.

[DeeJay]

Just being the devils advocate for a minute.
If you cream into a car and the difference between it being a catastrophe without ABS or a close call with ABS then there is your answer.
Luckily I've got by without it in my 4wd'ing but a couple of times in my Commodore I've been gratefull for it.
One guy did a U turn in front of me, realised his mistake & propped. I stopped so close that he had to straighten up to finish his U turn. Without the ABS I'm sure I would have clocked him badly ( & having had a few pre ABS prangs I'm speaking from experience :angel:)
So I guess its worth a second thought-- $$$ aside.

[weeds]

6-8K will be easily spent on a rear locker, draw system, roof rack, awning, maybe a fridge, spare wheel carrier, uhf etc etc

[Sleepy]

I like ABS but lockers are only a few grand and are arguably better the ETC.

Based on what you've said, I would buy the non ABS version. ABS can be useless on gravel roads and I prefer the steel wheel option. Make sure you upgrade to the Hi-cap springs though. (Like the 130)

[PBob]

Sleepy,
Can you explain the different springs? Are they after market or do you order the vehicle with them? I do a fair bit of towing, horse float, 23' boat and a Kimberley camper, so they interest me.
Deejay,
your comments are also of interest, I do a fair bit of country running on the tar. I have a Disco HSE D3 at present and believe me, if you need to stop in a hurry (Roos etc) the brakes on it are awsome. Mind you it might travel at a different pace to a Defer!

[Scouse]

I suppose the issue is resale value? You might even find that these few early cars become the ones to get. Not everyone is a fan of ABS & TC out in the country.

The same applies to the update D1s. A few were delivered here by special order without SRS & ABS & some people prefer this specification over the normal.

[Sleepy]

Sleepy,
Can you explain the different springs? Are they after market or do you order the vehicle with them? I do a fair bit of towing, horse float, 23' boat and a Kimberley camper, so they interest me.


The 130s and Hicap110s have a much heavier spring set up with rear helper springs. Next time you see a 130, crawl under the back and have a look and then compare with a normal 110 defender wagon.

If you have a look here (http://www.landrover.com.au/assets/au/en/vehicles/defender/compare-models-and-prices/MLR6663_DEFENDER_PRICE_EBROCHURE_FINAL.pdf) the 110 HCPU refers to the Heavy Duty Pack - this would definetly be of interest to you and your load. ;)