World's Fastest Land Rover Defender

27 entries came searching for the title and this diesel Defender 90 won decisively, crediting the tires as the component that put it over the top.

Land Rover Defenders are not exactly speed demons. Oh, they'll do all but climb a tree off-road, but on the tarmac they're, let's just say, not as comfortable. So naturally, Mankind had to devise a speed race for it. Do they offer off-road trials for Bentleys?

The event, which took place at Bruntingthorpe proving ground in Leicestershire, U.K. in late September, attracted 27 entries from tuners, posers and private individuals who brought their tricked-out Defenders to see which would be fastest. Then they were put to the test - actually a number of tests - including straight-line acceleration and timed sprints around short circuits.

The winning vehicle was a TD5-powered hardtop which had been tuned by Thirsk-based specialist, Twisted Performance, and was fitted with 285/50 R18 Michelin Diamaris high performance 4x4 tires. These tires were originally designed for high performance SUVs such as the Porsche Cayenne but worked perfectly in the demanding conditions of this challenge to give the car the winning edge.

The car’s owner, Charlie Fawcett said: "We are obviously very pleased to have won this event as we were up against some much more powerful opposition, including supercharged V8-powered vehicles. In the end though, the Michelin tires really made a difference as we were able use every one of our 239bhp to easily win both of the timed circuit sprints, and the overall title. At times we had so much grip that the car was cornering on two wheels and our driver said it reminded him of his Clio race car in the way it turned into corners."

The Michelin Diamaris is part of Michelin’s extensive range of 4x4 tires which offers something to suit a wide variety of vehicles and operating conditions. Something to think about if you're thinking of tinkering with your Defender for a future speed run. And Bentley owners, we've got a nice set of off-road shoes for your vehicle if you're considering something similar.