Land Rover Defender

vs

Land Rover Series IIA

UK vs UK — 1989 vs 1958

Land Rover Defender (1989)
Land Rover Series IIA (1958)
Specifications
Defender 90 300TdiSeries IIA 109 Station Wagon
Horsepower111 hp77 hp
Torque195 lb-ft125 lb-ft
Engine Size2,495 cc2,286 cc
0-60 mph17.5 sec
Top Speed84 mph65 mph
¼ Mile21.0 sec
Weight3,501 lbs
Wheelbase2,360 mm2,768 mm
Length3,883 mm4,470 mm
Original MSRP$3,200
Value (Excellent)$75,000$60,000
Collectibility5/107/10
Rarity3/104/10
The Verdict

Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1989 Land Rover Defender 90 300Tdi excels in more power, higher top speed, while the 1958 Land Rover Series IIA 109 Station Wagon stands out for stronger collectibility, better value. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.

Overview

The 1989 Land Rover Defender 90 300Tdi and 1958 Land Rover Series IIA 109 Station Wagon share a manufacturer in Land Rover, but that's where the similarities get interesting. These two models reveal the versatility and ambition of the Land Rover brand. The 1989 Land Rover Defender 90 300Tdi holds a clear advantage in raw power with 111 hp compared to 77 hp, a 34-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Land Rover Defender uses a Inline-4 OHC Turbodiesel displacing 2,495 cc, while the Land Rover Series IIA relies on a Inline-4 OHV with 2,286 cc. The 1989 Land Rover Defender 90 300Tdi claims a higher top speed at 84 mph compared to 65 mph. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1958 Land Rover Series IIA 109 Station Wagon rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.