HobbyBoss 1/35 Defender 110 Hardtop

Production of the model now known as the Defender began in 1983 as the Land Rover One Ten, a name which reflected the 110-inch (2,800 mm) length of the wheelbase. The Land Rover Ninety, with 93-inch (2,362 mm) wheelbase, and Land Rover 127, with 127-inch (3,226 mm) wheelbase, soon followed.

Outwardly, there is little to distinguish the post-1983 vehicles from the Series III Land Rover. A full-length bonnet, revised grille, plus the fitting of wheel arch extensions to cover wider-track axles are the most noticeable changes. While the engine and other body panels carried over from the Series III, mechanically the Ninety and One Ten were modernized, including:

• Coil springs, offering a more comfortable ride and improved axle articulation
• A permanent four-wheel drive system borrowed from the Range Rover, featuring a two-speed transfer gearbox with a lockable centre differential
• A modernized interior
• A taller one-piece windscreen
• A new series of progressively more powerful and more modern engines

The One Ten was launched in 1983, and the Ninety followed in 1984. From 1984, wind-up windows were fitted (Series models and very early One Tens had sliding panels), and a 2.5-litre (153 cu in), 68 horsepower (51 kW) diesel engine was introduced. This was based on the earlier 2.3-litre (140 cu in) engine, but had a more modern fuel-injection system as well as increased capacity. A low compression version of the 3.5 liters (210 cu in) V8 Range Rover engine transformed performance. It was initially available in the One Ten with a 4-speed transmission with integral transfer case, then later in conjunction with a high strength 'Santana' 5 speed transmission.

This period saw Land Rover market the utility Land Rover as a private recreational vehicle. Whilst the basic pick-up, Station Wagon and van versions were still working vehicles, the County Station Wagons were sold as multi-purpose family vehicles, featuring improved interior trim and more comfortable seats. This change was reflected in Land Rover starting what had long been common practice in the car industry - detail changes and improvements to the County model from year to year in order to attract new buyers and to encourage existing owners to trade in for a new vehicle. These changes included different exterior styling graphics and color options, and a introduction of new options, such as radio/cassette players, styled wheel options, headlamp wash/wipe systems, as well as accessories such as surfboard carriers and bike racks. The switch from leaf spring to coil spring suspension added to the new models' success. It offered improved off-road ability and load capacity for traditional commercial users, whilst the improved handling and ride comfort. Not surprisingly, these vehicles are used by military units world wide, often modified to meet the needs of the buyer and local operating conditions. 

Hobby Boss has garnered a rather good reputation for molding and engineering over the recent years. Overall their kits have shown to be well thought out and accurate. This kit of the most recent Land Rover is an example.

The kit is quite similar to the earlier Wolf XD version that was their first kit using this same basic chassis. It very well detailed with a complete engine, chassis and drive-train components. The frame itself consists of all the appropriate cross bars and suspension attachment points as separate parts. The suspension fore and aft is quite complete with all of the proper linkages. A full exhaust is also included. Two piece wheels trap a rubber tire, or you can slip it on afterwards as the tire is somewhat hollow.

Not surprisingly, much of the parts count is for the body and this is built up from the base interior/cargo section. A full roll cage for the hard top is part of the build. One will have to modify the cargo section of the chassis prior to installing the cage and the top. The kit includes both inner and outer fender section as on the actual vehicle and you have a plethora of bits and pieces to attach to it. From the look of things, this is a kit that one will be painting as one goes along. A number of holes will need to be opened to attach bits on the outside of the body. The only option pointed out is the inclusion of what I am guessing are air filterson the side of the front fenders. It does appear that the side and rear doors can be positioned open, but the instructions do not indicate such. The small photo etch fret contains headlight guards.

Those of us who like vehicles like this will find this one to be a great addition to our collection. The detail level is quite high and should produce an exceptional replica straight from the box.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Land_Rover_Defender

 November 2011

Thanks to Squadron Products for the preview sample. Get yours today at your local shop or on-line retailer

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