109" or 88" Preference and Why?

[Momo]

Gregor, I showed my wife this photo and said "See, I'm not the only one!"
My wife would now like to get your wife's phone number. She wants to start a support group for Rover spouses.


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[rwollschlager]

The following is subjective and coming from owning 2 109's and an 88.

The 109's have a FAR smoother ride. If I am planning on driving on a rougher road or going on the freeway the 109 is my ride of choice. Without much weight in it, the 88 is like driving a shopping cart, even with large tires and parabolics. The 109's, even without the overdrive, have some voodoo magic going on in them that make them cruise more comfortably at higher speeds. Unless you plan to wheel it REALLY hard, the 109 can go almost all places the 88 can. 109's really are canaverous, we can fit more stuff into our 109 than our '97 suburban.

The 88 is quicker and more nimble. I have one as a trail truck and a summer cruiser, because it fits in smaller places and the top is much easier to take off. With an 88 you don't have to be good at parking. They are deceivingly small and can fit into any space. I have a friend that uses one to commute from Western CT to NYC for work everyday. If it's just you and your dog, or you and 1 other full size guy, the 88 will be plenty.

-Rob

[TeriAnn]

I just remembered one other thing that no one has mentioned. The seats in the 109 lean back more than the 88 seats. What this means is that you are in a more relaxed position and there is more space between your torso and the steering wheel & windscreen. The result is that the front seems roomier and not as cramped.

A 109 regular has standoffs between the behind the seat bulkhead and the back of the seats. Remove the standoffs and you have a couple more inches of rearward lean in the seat back which adds to the spacious feeling.

[czenkov]

I like you. Good point. I'm thinking the best combo is a Defender 110 and 88 IIa with a canvas top.

I have exactly that, although the 110 is a 3 door, and highly recommend the combination. Although the Series are better looking than the Defenders. Good luck with whatever you decide.