CarWOW never seems to run out of ideas to try out while comparing the capabilities of various cars. The latest video sees a 2022 Land Rover Defender Diesel Turbo tackle a classical Defender restomod powered by Tesla Model S tech in a tug-of-war contest.
The stock Defender comes powered by a 3.0-liter six-cylinder turbo diesel engine rated at 250 PS (246 hp / 183 kW) and 570 Nm (420 lb-ft) of torque. The all-electric restomod packs more power at 450 PS (444 hp / 331 kW), but less torque at 450 Nm (332 lb-ft). Elsewhere, the modern car benefits from numerous electronic assists and a reduction gear. The restomod also packs AWD, but its transmission only has one speed, and its “Off-Road” mode simply smoothens out the throttle response without doing much more.
There are not all the differences. Despite having a 100-kWh battery, the old-timer somehow manages to weigh less than its opponent does at roughly 2,000 kilograms (4,400 pounds) versus 2,228 kg (4,912 lbs). It also takes advantage of all-terrain tires. So, which one do you think stands more of a chance?
If you want us to spoil the outcome, read on. In short, the modern Defender won the contest thanks to its superior torque and electronic systems. Aside from this, perhaps the weather ruined things for the electric car, because it visibly struggled with traction on the wet soil.
A hardcore pickup truck styled after vehicles from the 2015 movie “Spectre” made a surprise appearance in the video as well. The car is the heaviest of the three at 2.6 metric tons (5,732 lbs) and identical to the Tesla-powered Defender in terms of power and torque. It lacks any off-road assists, but proves more than capable of holding its own against the modern SUV.