Evening all,
I’m constantly reading back and forth remarks about how one of the above is better than the other at off roading.
Which one is the daddy? I’m new to ‘off roading’ and Green Laning malarkey so I’m intrigued to know the pros and cons of each model.
Let the bickering commence.
-Mark
1. Green laning is not off roading. They are all part of the Queens Highway and are most definitely roads.
2. Almost no green lane in the country is all that extreme. Meaning most stock 4x4’s should be fine. If you are on a lane that is extreme, then chances are it’s not actually a legal lane. Or you really shouldn’t be driving it in that condition.
3. Off road it depends. The Freelander lacks ground clearance and has poor approach, departure and ramp over angles and has large over hangs. And poor suspension travel and articulation. This means deep tramline ruts can easily beach one. And they will be more prone to lifting a wheel.
The TCS and relative low weight and good power mean they work well on snow, grass and sand however. But mud and ruts less so.
4. A Discovery is essentially a Defender just with a bigger heavier body with worse approach and departure angles and bigger over hangs. The longer wheelbase can help in some situations but makes for a less nimble vehicle with a bigger turning circle.
D1’s never came with TCS or other traction aids. D2’s do have TCS which can give them an advantage in certain cross axle situations and slick surfaces. But most don’t have a centre difflock which can limit this addition.
5. Defender 90’s are the smallest and most nimble and have equal suspension and drivetrain to a D1’s and Td5 onwards optional TCS. The bodywork is also a lot less vulnerable than the others.
