We reported in detail about the new Defender Challenge motorsport competition in the last issue, mentioning the race machines modified suspension. Now, thanks to Bilstein, it is possible to have a new ‘switchable’ suspension system for your 90 or 110 Defender. The Bilstein B16 Ride Control system offers two switchable modes, which are controlled from a push button fitted to the car’s interior. The Sport mode offers tauter driving dynamics and what is claimed to be optimum handling for all situations, whereas Comfort gives a ‘plush, cossetting ride, akin to softer, Original Equipment dampers’. Switching between either mode can be done ‘on the fly’ in an instant, allowing you to tailor the Defender to the prevailing conditions, or indeed, your own mood. Everything included in the kit has been designed and produced entirely in-house in Bilstein’s German production facilities and these kits carry full TÜV approval and have impressive anti-corrosion treatment on the damper bodies, which leads to a 24 months warranty. The complete Bilstein B16 Ride Control is priced at £1210 (plus VAT). To find out more, call the UK office on 0116 289 8345.
Website: www.bilstein.de
To celebrate the UK debut of the Discovery Concept and the 25 years of Discovery, we were permitted to drive along her Majesty’s front drive at Windsor Park. The three mile long drive is arrow straight. Standing at the start, the grandeur of Windsor Castle is obvious, but it does seem a long way away. OK, so we trundled along at a very slow speed, avoiding the many pedestrians enjoying the spring sunshine but it was something of an honour. While my drive around the park was indeed special, it was increased by the enjoyment of getting behind the wheel of Land Rover Discovery F981 ENV. This is the first production model of what later became known as Series 1 (it’s doubtful at the time that confidence was high enough to consider if there would ever be a Series II, let alone III, IV and now the Concept). This actual vehicle was handed over to the Heritage Collection directly from the production line and it probably looks even better today than it did back in ’89! Climb aboard and it feels like yesterday. The Terrance Conran-inspired interior still looks stylish and modern, the ultimate compliment for any design. Thinner A-pillars help as well, but it is still a great place to sit; the high roof helping, big hats are no problem in a Series 1. Turn on the ignition and the 2.5-litre 200TDi four-cylinder turbocharged diesel rattles to life, the steering wheel vibrates and there’s a hum through the whole body. Having previously been driving the very latest super-smooth Discovery, this comes as something of a shock. It’s not a criticism, however, just a comment that today we forget just how damped and noise-supressed modern new 4x4s are. 
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