Offering refinement on the road and an exhilarating experience off the beaten track, the Land Rover Defender is always a top choice for overlanding enthusiasts. The brand itself has a long and proud history, with the story from Series One to the present day riveting.
The period between 1990 and 2016 is a particularly trailblazing time for the iconic model. The reputations of the classic 4x4s manufactured during this timeframe live on, with the Defender 110 a great foundation for an overland build. An overland build is only as good as its upgrades however, and these are the ones to include in the setup of your Land Rover…
1. Koni RAID Dampers
The Land Rover Defender really is the ultimate off-roader. But when conditions get really tough, it could always benefit from a helping hand.
Unfortunately, even the standard shock absorbers found on a Land Rover Defender are prone to failure. Whether it’s low quality seals or spot welding that’s responsible for the failure-prone finish, swapping OE components for heavy duty, aftermarket alternatives is a must for overlanders. Koni RAID Dampers are market leading, with this specially engineered product relied on by buses, trucks, military vehicles and even railway carriages. With this, your 110 will be in the best hands.
This ultra-durable upgrade is designed to go the distance, RAID shocks were selected by Top Gear for their successful attempt to drive to the North Magnetic Pole in 2007. They’re also regularly used in races and events worldwide, including the Paris-Dakar Rally. Now these off-vehicle adjustable shocks can be incorporated into your rig to enhance performance, increase lifespan, and make the most of high-level race technology.
2. Xtreme Outback Organic Clutch
Another Defender upgrade made for performance is the Xtreme Outback Organic Clutch Kit. It’s heavy duty, making it ideal for fast road, extra weight and towing. It has also been tested under the most extreme conditions to ensure optimal clamp load, improved component life and maximum torque, even for modified vehicles.
3. N4 Skid Plate Underbody Protection
Who knows what challenges you’ll face on the trail during your next overland trip! Be prepared for anything by adding N4 Skid Plate Underbody Protection to your 110. It’s crafted using a high-grade, 6mm-thick aluminium alloy to provide exceptional durability without weighing your vehicle down.
Its design protects all your Defender’s major mechanical parts. It’s also compatible with the factory bumper and most winch bumpers, so there’s no need to compromise on the perfect overland setup.
4. Britpart Expedition Roof Rack
While industry experts and overlanding enthusiasts rave about the 110’s performance off the road, feedback on this Defender’s interior dimensions and comfort is less positive. Honest John is just some of the platforms to offer its opinion on the Defender 1990-2016’s rather disagreeable interior:
“Inside is where the age of the Defender’s design is betrayed by a cramped driving position, an upright windscreen and a shallow dashboard… up front it doesn’t take long to get uncomfortable. There’s nowhere to put your right arm when driving unless you open the window and stick your elbow through the opening, for one. It’s a moot point, though. The Defender is enduringly popular because of its reputation as a competent and capable workhorse – a reputation it richly deserves.”
With internal space best described as cramped, there’s very limited room to stow those overlanding supplies. The right upgrade however could free up space in-cab to leave you sitting pretty and provide an organised setup to store those essentials.
The Britpart Expedition Roof Rack is one such upgrade. This high quality, powder coat finished rack is robust and extremely versatile. It’s also the perfect way to mount roof top tents and carry heavy camping accessories for long trips both on and off road.
5. Old Man Emu OME Coil Springs
Unlock the full potential of your Land Rover’s suspension system by adding Old Man Emu OME Coil Springs. These Australian engineered suspension components have been sold worldwide for over three decades, and there’s a reason why they’ve endured even as new products come to market.
For notable improvements in vehicle performance, increased load carrying capacity and impressive control characteristics, upgrade with Old Man Emu’s standard or long travel kit.
Check out our full range of Land Rover Defender 110 (1990-2016) upgrades ahead of your upcoming overland trip.